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Thousands of pilgrims climb Mount Pulumbato in Zamboanga for the annual Via Crucis, some walking barefoot and bearing wooden crosses in a solemn act of prayer, penance, and reflection on Christ’s suffering
ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – More than 65,000 Catholic devotees climbed Abong-Abong Hill in Zamboanga City from Holy Wednesday to Good Friday, retracing the Way of the Cross in one of the country’s most deeply rooted Holy Week traditions, authorities said.
The annual Via Crucis, or Way of the Cross, draws thousands to Mount Pulumbato, Zamboanga, where pilgrims walk barefoot and carry wooden crosses in a ritual of prayer, penance and remembrance of Christ’s suffering.
The city’s Mobile Command Center reported that 20,952 people visited the site on the evening of Maundy Thursday alone.
This year’s annual procession began at Abong-Abong Park in Pasonanca, where Catholic devotees climbed the hill through 14 life-sized stations that depicted Christ’s journey to Calvary.
Pilgrims often begin before dawn, carrying wooden crosses, candles and rosaries. Some walk barefoot as an act of penance. The annual uphill walk is seen as both a physical and spiritual undertaking. At each station, prayers are recited, often led by lay ministers or local clergy.
“The Way of the Cross reminds us of the suffering that Jesus endured out of love for us – for all of humanity. It reminds us of God’s deep sacrifice, encouraging gratitude and a deeper relationship with Him,” said Father Butch Candido, parish priest of the Parroqia de la Sagrada Familia, Familia, adding, “Sacrifice is part of our day-to-day living, and therefore we need to face it with hope.”
Each station features sculptures and visual tableaus, providing a vivid representation of Christ’s suffering. At the summit, where the final station is located, many paused in silent prayer or awaited the sunrise – seen by many as a symbol of hope and redemption.
The tradition is also a communal event, bringing together families, neighbors and tourists. For many Zamboangueños, it is a yearly commitment passed down through generations.
“The Via Crucis is an inspiration on how to endure life struggles. Each station offers a moment of pain, weakness or support, just like the struggles we face in life. It encourages us to carry our own crosses with faith, hope, and perseverance,” Father Candido said.
Smaller communities across Zamboanga also conducted their own observances, incorporating Chavacano prayers, local hymns and indigenous expressions of devotion.
Authorities have coordinated with local churches to manage crowd safety and maintain order.
Father Sergio dela Noche, president of Saint Joseph’s College, has been leading Holy Week liturgies at the Cabaluay chapel for the past two years, despite no longer being assigned to a parish. He said he has noted a drop in attendance during the previous liturgies for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Black Saturday. – Rappler.com
