Filipinos Embrace Tradition Amid Rising Fuel Costs During Lent

On Good Friday, hundreds of Filipinos and tourists gathered in San Fernando City, Pampanga, to participate in a deeply rooted religious tradition that involves self-flagellation and crucifixion reenactments. This event, which typically attracts up to 12,000 spectators, showcases the fervent devotion of participants who engage in extreme acts of penance to atone for sins and seek miracles. Despite the rising fuel prices attributed to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the turnout remained strong, highlighting the significance of faith in Filipino culture.

The Straits Times

Participants, known as flagellants, walked barefoot through the dusty streets, some deliberately inflicting wounds on themselves with bamboo whips and glass shards. John David, a 49-year-old participant, shared his motivation for the ritual, stating, “I’m doing this to pray for the healing of my seven-month-old baby, who is suffering from pneumonia.” His family has a long tradition of participating in this event, which he believes has brought about miracles of healing.

The Straits Times

The rising fuel costs, which have reached historic highs following military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iran, have prompted President Ferdinand Marcos to declare a “national energy emergency.” Many attendees, like Ricky Margate, adapted their travel methods to cope with these costs, opting for motorcycles over cars to reduce fuel consumption. Margate expressed that the expenses were part of his sacrifices during Holy Week, emphasizing the importance of the event over financial burdens.

The Straits Times

Businesswoman Gina Villanueva, who traveled 70 kilometers from Manila, echoed similar sentiments, stating that she was praying for both good health and a decrease in fuel prices, as many people are struggling with the economic impact. Snack vendor Mhekyle Salazar noted the resilience of faith, remarking, “I guess fuel prices are no match for the strength of our faith and tradition.”

The Straits Times

The annual crucifixion spectacle not only serves as a display of religious devotion but also reflects the socio-economic challenges faced by many Filipinos. The juxtaposition of rising fuel costs and the unwavering commitment to tradition underscores the complex relationship between faith and daily life in the Philippines. As the country navigates these challenges, the event remains a powerful testament to the enduring nature of cultural and religious practices.

The Straits Times

• “I’m doing this to pray for the healing of my seven-month-old baby, who is suffering from pneumonia,” — John David, Participant

The Straits Times

• “I think that the high fuel prices that I have to pay to be here are just part of my sacrifices this Holy Week,” — Ricky Margate, Participant

The Straits Times

• “(I’m praying) for good health and also for the fuel prices to go down, because many are already suffering,” — Gina Villanueva, Businesswoman

The Straits Times

• “I guess fuel prices are no match for the strength of our faith and tradition,” — Mhekyle Salazar, Snack Vendor

The Straits Times