Thousands of people
watched as 17 devoted Catholics were 'crucified' in the gruesome annual ritual.
Church leaders have
condemned the practice which they believe are a distortion of the true Easter
message
Nine men were crucified
in Pampanga province's San Pedro Cutud village today, while at least eight
others were crucified in neighbouring villages.
The annual event - which
dates back to the 1950s - drew an estimated crowd of 10,000 worshippers.
Many take part to atone for sins, pray for the sick or for a better
life, or to give thanks for what they believe were miracles.
Ruben Enaje, a painter, 51, took part in the crucifixions for the 26th time today. He began taking part in the annual event to give thanks after he survived falling from a building.
Ruben Enaje, a painter, 51, took part in the crucifixions for the 26th time today. He began taking part in the annual event to give thanks after he survived falling from a building.
'This is not just for
fun or for money. This is a calling,' he told Filipino website Tempo.
He added that despite
the crucifixions being condemned he still took part because the Church 'stay at
home during Good Friday instead of reaching out to penitents to explain their
side'.
'This is a spiritual vow as a way
of thanking God for sparing my life.'
He had three-inch steel
nails hammered into his palms during the ceremony.
The spectacle is a unique
brand of Catholicism that merges church traditions with Philippine folk
superstitions.
More than 80 per cent of
the Philippines' estimated 90 million population are Catholic.
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