How to Spend The Holy Week 2023 in the Philippines

As we end the first quarter of 2023, it’s never too late to start planning your long weekend getaway for Holy Week in the Philippines. With so many stunning destinations to explore and cultural experiences to immerse yourself in, it can be overwhelming trying to decide how best to spend this much-awaited holiday.

That’s why we’ve put together a guide filled with exciting activities and hidden gems that are sure to make your Holy Week vacation unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone on these tropical islands! So pack your stuff and get going for an epic adventure like no other – let’s dive into our top picks!

What are some activities that can be done during a long weekend vacation in the Philippines?

Assuming you would want to spend your long weekend vacation for Holy Week in the Philippines engaging in religious activities, below are some of the things you can do:

1. Visit at least one church every day. The Philippines is home to a plethora of stunning churches, each with its unique architecture and history. Whether you’re in Manila, Cebu, or any part of the country, make it a point to visit at least one church every day during your vacation.
2. Attend a procession. One of the most popular activities during Holy Week in the Philippines is attending processions. These typically take place on Good Friday, but you can also find them on other days leading up to Easter Sunday. Processions usually involve carrying a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ around town while people sing and pray.
3. Go on a pilgrimage. A pilgrimage is a journey taken to a holy place for religious reasons. In the Philippines, several places are considered pilgrimage sites, such as the  Antipolo Cathedral and Mount Banahaw. If you’re looking for a more intense pilgrimage experience, you can even join the annual “Moriones” festival in Marinduque Island where participants dress up as Roman soldiers and re-enact Christ’s passion and death.
4. Take a hike through one of the country’s stunning national parks. There are plenty of trails to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. This is a great way to see some of the amazing landscapes that the Philippines has to offer.

What are some places to visit in the Philippines during a long weekend vacation?

Before anything else, it is best to check the calendar and plan your long weekend vacation around the holidays. If you are planning to travel during a long weekend in April, here are some of the best places to visit in the Philippines.

Gaspar, Melchor, and Baltazar Islands

The Philippines is a beautiful country with many islands to explore. One of the best places to visit during the Holy Week is Palawan. Also known as the Three Kings Islands, these remote islands off the coast of Palawan boast diverse marine ecosystems and unexplored coral reefs. It’s a great destination for those looking to unwind and relax during the Holy Week.

Gaspar Island is known for its pristine beaches. Many beach resorts on this island offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. Melchor Island is home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Palawan. Baltazar Island is known for its churches. Many old churches on this island are worth visiting.

Gaspar Island Chapel

The Gaspar Island Chapel is one of the most popular destinations for Holy Week in the Philippines. The chapel is located on an island off the coast of Palawan and is only accessible by boat. The chapel was built in 1817 and is one of the oldest churches in the country. The chapel is named after St. Gaspar del Bufalo, who was an Italian missionary who helped spread Christianity in Asia. The chapel has a beautiful view of the ocean and is a popular spot for weddings.

El Nido’s Las Cabanas Beach

El Nido is a municipality in the province of Palawan in the Philippines. It is located on the northern tip of Palawan Island, known for its white sand beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs.

Las Cabanas Beach is one of El Nido’s most popular beaches for travelers looking for pristine white sand beaches. It is situated in a secluded cove and is surrounded by limestone cliffs. The beach has fine white sand, and the waters are crystal clear. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling at Las Cabanas Beach.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Puerto Princesa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. The cathedral is located in the heart of the city and is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the true Filipino culture. The cathedral was built in 1856 and is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It is also considered one of the most beautiful, with its ornate facade and stunning interior. The cathedral is open to visitors all year round, but it is especially popular during Holy Week.

Sariaya Church, Marinduque

Sariaya Church, also known as the Saint Rita de Cascia Parish Church, is a historic Roman Catholic church in Sariaya, Marinduque. One of the oldest churches in the Philippines, it was built in 1578 by the Augustinian missionaries. It is also one of the few remaining Spanish-era churches in the country that has retained its original architecture.

The church has a unique Baroque-style façade with three levels. The first level consists of a portico with four Tuscan columns supporting a pediment. The second level has a series of arched windows and an ornate balustrade. The third level houses the octagonal-shaped bell tower capped with a cupola.

Inside the church, visitors can see the stunning Retablo Mayor, a carved wooden altarpiece that dates back to 1768. The church also has several other interesting features, including an old pipe organ and a collection of antique religious artifacts.

To wrap things up

Spending a long weekend vacation for Holy Week in the Philippines is a great way to relax and rejuvenate. There are many activities to choose from and plenty of sights to see. Whether you want to spend your time exploring the country’s natural beauty or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder why the Philippines is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia.