Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 7) — Provinces around the country have revived their Good Friday traditions this year as COVID-19 protocols further eased.
In Palo town in Leyte, church officials staged anew the “Tanggal.”
This is the local version of the “Senakulo” or the live performance of Jesus Christ’s trial and death.
Hundreds of spectators, including those from Palo’s neighboring localities, watched the event — a tradition which dates back to 1974.
Another part of Palo’s religious culture is its Catholic confraternity dubbed “Palo Penitentes.”
The all-male group, inspired by the early 16th century penitents from Spain, wear pointed, cone-shaped hoods and are actively involved in Holy Week rites.
This year, the “Penitentes” flocked the streets again and also helped with crowd control for the Tanggal.
Meanwhile, in San Fernando, Pampanga, the renowned “Maleldo” Lenten tradition was also held for the first time in three years.
Penitents, locals, and tourists alike flocked to the area to witness the ceremonies, which reenact the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Leyte-based correspondent Wil Mark Amazona contributed to this report.
