Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 14) – After more than three decades, 62-year-old Ruben Enaje will perform this year his last reenactment and crucifixion in Pampanga’s traditional “Maleldo” or Holy Week rites.
\”I am dedicating my lenten sacrifice to everyone affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We lost a lot of lives and a great number wept and suffered,\” said Enaje in a statement released by Pampanga’s public information office.
The traditional reenactment and crucifixion was halted from 2020 to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the website of San Fernando City Government, the reenactment of the Passion of Christ began in 1955 with the staging of \”Via Crusis\” (The Way of the Cross). However, the actual crucifixion was staged in 1962.
Since then, the reenactment and crucifixion have become a part of \” panata\” or \”vow of sacrifice\” by some penitents and have been done yearly every Good Friday, the website added.
In Barangay San Pedro Cutud in San Fernando, Pampanga, thousands flock to witness the Holy Week tradition.
Since 1986, Enaje has carried a cross that weighs 37 kilos and walked through a two-kilometer stretch route to a makeshift hill. During the procession, he gets whipped by \”hudyos.\”
This act, the website said, is done to also \”draw blood, ask for forgiveness of sins committed\” and to \”express gratitude for favors granted.\”
Although the Catholic Church does not accept this tradition, Enaje expressed hope the Church would accept his way of sacrifice.
He also hoped that whoever takes his role will serve as a good example to the Christian community, the statement read.
