Following the way of the cross

The observance of Lent in Pampanga is characterized with remembering the Passion of Christ through Senakulo, Pabasa and offering sacrificial acts such as carrying wooden crosses, whipping their backs or crucifying their bodies on the cross. Called “magdarame,” these penitents perform acts to ask for forgiveness, fulfill a panata (vow of sacrifice) or express gratitude for the blessings that they have received. Last Good Friday, philstar.com witnessed 27 crucified penitents and over a thousand flagellants during the annual Maleldo, “a spiritual journey and a continuing tradition of faith” since 1955.