For most Filipinos who are Catholic devotees, Holy
Week is the perfect chance to take a break from work and school in order to
reflect the Sacrifices of Christ. This time of the year, they combine religion
and vacation to get that much-needed rest, offer prayers, and be in complete
solitude. And given that the Philippines have the most number of the Catholic
population in South East Asia; it's not surprising at all how Filipinos show
their devotion.
Don't have plans yet? Be sure to check out below suggestions
if you're seeking for the perfect place to spend Holy Week this year:
BATANGAS
Batangas isn’t the first place that comes to mind when
you think of places to visit during Holy Week right? But come to think of it,
this place has scenic views, peaceful surroundings, and a handful of greeneries
that can give you solace. Plus, it is just a two hours drive South of Manila.
It's your perfect spot if you're going on a retreat
since you can find lots of old churches here such as San Sebastian Church and Caleruega Church. What’s
the most popular one? The Basilica de San Martin de Tours also known as Taal
Basilica which is considered as the biggest church not just in the Philippines
but in Asia!
TAGAYTAY
Lots of recreational facilities have emerged in the
city throughout the years, yet Tagaytay is still considered as a spiritual
destination by many especially due to its prime location.
It is a must place to visit this coming Holy Week
because of its tranquil, peaceful, and very solemn surroundings. Numerous pilgrims come here to visit the Pink
Sisters Monastery and Tierra de Maria where you can pray and enjoy some quiet
time.
TARLAC
Never miss to include Tarlac on your Holy Week bucket
list, as some of the most thrilling experiences can be found here.
Dubbed as the “Holy Land” of the Philippines, Tarlac
features a replica of the tomb of Jesus Christ and a 40-foot statue of Jesus on
the cross on Mount Golgotha. Aside from these, visitors can also go on a trekking
adventure at Mt. Pinatubo, visit waterfalls, museums, and try-out the
province's delicacies.
ILOCOS REGION
With its awe-inspiring natural surroundings,
historical landmarks, and century-old churches, Ilocos Region is a very popular
place to visit during the Lenten Season.
For those who observe Visita Iglesia, or the tradition
of visiting traditional churches and praying the Stations of the Cross, there
are lots of options that await them in the Ilocos Region. From the famous Paoay
Church, Virgen Milarosa Shrine to La Milagrosa Chapel, you'll never run out of
places to see.
MANILA
If don't want to wander too far from home, then you
can opt to stay in the city.
No need to worry, about missing out on visiting old
churches during this Holy Week 'cause Manila got your back! In fact, there’s a
lot to choose from such as the Quiapo Church, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin
Church, and the Paco Church. Get ready to get stunned by their different
architectures and learn more about the story behind each facade.
BULACAN
Since churches become the most visited sites during
Holy Week then there’s no better place to visit than Bulacan. Find some of the
most notable historic churches here like Barasoain Church, St. Monica Church,
and Church of Santiago Apostol.
And considering that Bulacan is just a 2 hours drive
from Metro Manila; then a quick day tour is a must for you!
CEBU
Known to be one of the top destinations in the country,
Cebu is more than just its white beaches and as a center of business in the
Visayas Region.
It is the oldest city in the Philippines and the place
where Christianity was first introduced by the Spaniards to the Filipinos
making it a relevant place to visit during the Holy Week. What you should not
miss are Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu, home to the image of the Santo
Niño de Cebú and Simala Church, a castle-like shrine built by Marian Monks that
also serves as guardians of the sacred site.
MARINDUQUE
Annually, Marinduque welcomes numerous tourists from
all around the country and from the various corners of the world during the
Holy Week because of its Moriones Festival.
The whole festivity is all about the iconic portrayal
of the story of Longinus, a Roman centurion who, according to the stories,
pierced Jesus’ crucified body then had his vision restored by Christ’s
blood. The street will literally turn
into a theater where you'll see men and women in Roman-inspired costumes and
masks scaring children and making loud noises.
PAMPANGA
Your list of where to go during Holy Week wouldn’t be
complete without visiting Pampanga. Annually every Good Friday, this place
draws millions of Catholic devotees and tourists to observe extreme acts of faith.
Locals conduct a re-enactment of the Passion of the
Cross and the crucifixion of Christ. There is a procession where some devotees
will walk with covers in their head, bare-chested while whipping their backs
nonstop even though it's already bleeding also known as "Penitensya",
or an act of repentance. Some would walk barefoot and not minding the heat of
the day. And there is also a man dressed in red and carrying a cross imitating
Christ. But the main highlights of this event are the men and women who are
being crucified in a cross, literally!
Although some find this tradition a bit extreme, for
some Filipinos, this is their way of repenting for their sins and showing how
strong their faith to their religion is.
Not only that you can practice your Catholic religion
here but you get to immerse with its rich history as well. So, free your self
with all the stress, admire various traditions, and observe the true meaning of
the Lenten Season all throughout the country offering complete spiritual and
mental enlightenment.
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