Bgy. LNW, Angeles City— In anticipation of the upcoming Lenten season, Barangay Lourdes North West (LNW), under the leadership of Punong Barangay Nicanor Abelardo Soriano and lead organizer Kagawad Jun Pineda, along with the barangay council, is gearing up to assert its status as the Lenten Capital of Angeles City.
With meticulous planning and substantial investments from major sponsors, Bgy. LNW is poised to showcase its cultural heritage and attract visitors from near and far with the dramatization of the Passion of Christ on the Cross at “Golgotha.” Golgotha, also known as “Calvary,” refers to the place outside Jerusalem where Jesus Christ was crucified according to Christian tradition. This religious event has been upheld since 1923, spanning nearly a century of tradition in Bgy. LNW. The event features local artists, specifically the Siete Palabras Artists under the direction of Director Jayson Pabalan.
Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. and Chief Adviser IC Calaguas will be presenting a check amounting to P300,000 on March 20, 2024, to Soriano and the kagawads in support of the Lenten activities aimed at enhancing tourism attractions.
Soriano confidently stated that they are anticipating 10,000 tourists, a significant increase from the previous range of 5,000 to 7,000 tourists.
Costume Spectacle
Local artists will captivate audiences with their dazzling performances, adorned in locally made simple garments. These costumes are often depicted in historical artwork and religious iconography as cream and brown robes, symbolizing purity and humility.
Preparation Timeline
Since January 2024, intensive auditions, workshops, and rehearsals have been underway for local artists who are also teachers, nurses by profession, and students. These efforts aim to ensure a flawless and captivating presentation under the supervision of Director Jayson Pabalan of Onstage Studio.
Jhay Manlapaz, born and raised in Barangay LNW, is taking on the role of Jesus Christ for the first time, having previously portrayed Simon on stage for five years. He hails from a lineage where his ancestors also assumed the same role, marking him as the sixth generation to do so.
Expansive Venue
Don Pepe Henson Realty has generously provided a sprawling two-hectare venue, poised to accommodate the influx of tourists expected during the festivities.
Safety Measures
Led by Mayor Lazatin Jr. and Chief Adviser Calaguas, a dedicated medical team, in collaboration with local government agencies including RLLMC or ONA, CHO, ACTDO, ACDRRMO, local PNP, and fraternities will oversee attendees’ safety.
Cultural Highlights
From a moving portrayal of the Golgotha embankment to ambitious plans for setting a Guinness World Record for the longest flagellants, the event promises to be both culturally significant and visually stunning.
Logistics and Infrastructure:
Road Enhancements
Pampang Road undergwent an asphalt overlay through the priority projects of Congressman Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, enhancing accessibility for visitors traveling to the event.
Facilities
Portalets and food stalls will be readily available, with permits priced at P800, alongside nominal fees for tanod services and garbage disposal.
Souvenirs
Attendees will enjoy exclusive privileges, including the option to purchase souvenir shirts priced at P500, complete with a VIP pass, and “palaspas” for P600.
As the community eagerly awaits the Lenten festivities, LNW stands as a beacon of cultural pride and tourism potential, ready to celebrate tradition while embracing innovation.