Dawn Mass in Manila marks countdown to Christmas

Churchgoers in the Philippines marked the official countdown to Christmas Thursday. This time round, worshippers had to present proof of vaccination, check their temperature and fill out of a health declaration form before entering the church building. Police and church officials worked to remind people to maintain social distancing. The dawn Masses are a tradition said to stem from centuries ago, when farmers would come to the ceremonies before tending to their fields all day. Christmas is considered the most important celebration in the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic nation.