MABALACAT CITY, Philippines — Each Good Friday, the streets of this city in Pampanga province fill with penitents reenacting the suffering of Jesus Christ. The tradition, marked by public displays of devotion such as self-flagellation and cross-carrying, has seen a steady rise in participants year after year, as more faithful choose to embody the physical pain of the Passion.
On Friday, crowds gathered early as locals and visitors observed the rites in solemn silence. Among the penitents were men barefoot and hooded, their backs bloodied from ritual whipping, while others bore heavy wooden crosses through village streets. Despite growing calls for safer, more symbolic forms of devotion, participants say the physical act remains their most meaningful way to honor Christ’s sacrifice.
