In the Philippines, Holy Week is marked by a series of traditional and deeply symbolic rituals, reflecting the country’s predominantly Catholic faith. In the town of Kalayaan, located in the Laguna province, devotees enact Good Friday rites by engaging in self-flagellation to commemorate the sufferings of Jesus Christ. The ritual, which involves participants whipping their own backs with wooden implements, is observed by many residents, though it is discouraged by the church. This act of penitence is a personal atonement for sins and a plea for family well-being and health.
Participants navigate the town’s streets under intense heat, pausing at intervals to pray or refresh themselves with water. Community members, such as Baby Ragaza, assist by providing sustenance, including boiled eggs and water, to ease the participants’ physical trials. After completing the town circuit, the penitents proceed to a nearby waterfall to cleanse themselves of the blood from their backs.
Similarly, in the nearby town of Paete, a series of events unfold during Holy Wednesday and Maundy Thursday. Devotees partake in processions featuring life-sized statues of Christ and various saints, reflecting on the life and sacrifices of Jesus. These events are entrenched in the town’s traditions, drawing visitors to Paete, which is renowned for its wood carvings.
On Maundy Thursday, dramatic reenactments of the Passion of Christ are staged in the town plaza. Performers, clad in Roman soldier costumes, vividly recreate the events leading to the crucifixion, engaging the community and visitors alike in a powerful portrayal of faith. These performances highlight the intersection of art and faith, a significant aspect of Paete’s cultural identity.
The rituals observed across the Philippines during Holy Week vary, with some individuals even undergoing crucifixion reenactments to deepen their spiritual connection. These practices underscore the strong religious devotion prevalent in the country, showcasing how faith and tradition are deeply interwoven in the Filipino cultural fabric.