Holy Week is one of the most significant religious observances in the Philippines, a deeply spiritual period marked by solemn reflection and vibrant traditions.
It’s a time of remembrance of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, commencing on Palm Sunday and culminating in the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday.
In 2025, Holy Week will be observed from April 13 to April 20, and each year, millions of Filipinos participate in its time-honored rituals.
During this week, approximately 85 million Filipinos, representing roughly 79% of the population, set aside their daily routines to fulfill their religious obligations.
Given the Philippines’ predominantly Christian makeup, work holidays are mandated, allowing families to spend Holy Week in prayer and contemplation.
Beyond religious duties, many seize the opportunity for a Holy Week vacation, exploring the country’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.
It’s a unique chance to immerse oneself in the Spanish-influenced Catholic rituals and witness the age-old customs that define holy week traditions in the Philippines.
Holy Week Traditions Across the Islands
Palm Sunday to Holy Wednesday
The early part of Holy Week (Palm Sunday, Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday, and Holy Wednesday) is usually spent in reflection and prayer.
Families gather to attend the Holy Eucharist and participate in religious activities such as processions and meditations on the Stations of the Cross. These days set the tone for the solemnity of the week.
Maundy Thursday and Good Friday
Maundy Thursday marks the Last Supper, followed by Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Many Filipinos observe these days by visiting at least seven churches, a tradition known as Visita Iglesia, to pray and meditate on Christ’s passion.
Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday Morning
Holy Saturday is a day of vigil and anticipation, culminating in the joyous celebrations of Easter Sunday morning. In many communities, the Salubong—a reenactment of the meeting between the Risen Christ and the Virgin Mary—is a highlight.
These Spanish-influenced Catholic rituals are deeply rooted in the country’s cultural heritage.
Holy Week Destinations in the Philippines
If you’re looking for profound and memorable Holy Week destinations in the Philippines, here are some of the most compelling places to visit:
San Fernando, Pampanga for Crucifixion
One of the most awaited spectacles during Holy Week is the penitence by the Magdarame in San Pedro Cutud in San Fernando City, Pampanga.
The Magdarame are devout men who reenact the passion of Jesus Christ. They whip their bare backs while walking through the streets until they reach their version of Calvary, where the act ends with the crucifixion of the Magdarame.
Their heads are wrapped in black cloth and crowned with vines, like the Crown of Thorns placed on Jesus’ head.
While the bloody practice may not be for everyone, and those outside the faith may find it bizarre, the Magdarame’s imitation of the hardships of Jesus is actually a form of penance for their sins. Those living in Camella in Pampanga get front-row seats to this very unique tradition.
Since Crucifixion has become such a popular event, a house and lot in Pampanga ensures that you won’t have to struggle or spend too much time securing a spot with the best vantage point.
Tanay, Rizal for Salubong
‘Salubong’ directly translates to meeting or welcoming. In Tanay, Rizal, Salubong is a ritual that starts early Easter morning to welcome the images of the Risen Christ and the mourning Virgin Mary.
It starts with a somber procession and ends with the meeting of the images or statues in front of a church or a closed arena.
During this meeting, a child dressed as an angel and suspended in the air lifts the black veil from the Virgin’s head to signal the end of her mourning. There are several Salubong practices throughout the country, but the one staged by the Parish of San Ildefonso de Toledo in Tanay, Rizal is one of the grandest.
They involve the entire community, making a house and lot near Tanay an ideal home for the devout.
Another event highlight is the children’s choir singing angelic hymns, making the entire experience even more meaningful.
Visita Iglesia Destinations
Visita Iglesia is the practice of visiting seven churches to pray and commemorate the death of Jesus through the Ways of the Cross. It’s believed that the tradition was started by the Roman Empire, encouraging the devout to visit the seven basilicas throughout the empire to pray during Holy Week.
Visita Iglesia in the Philippines started when the Spanish colonized the country and introduced the Catholic faith.
Today, Visita Iglesia is the perfect chance to see historic churches and landmarks spread around the country. Here are some of the must-visit churches:
Ilocos Norte’s San Agustin Church
The San Agustin Church, also known as the Paoay Church, is one of the Philippines’ oldest surviving churches. It’s a National Cultural Treasure as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It features a gothic oriental design and towering buttresses, a relic of its time. It’s also surrounded by a scenic landscape, which makes the church even more impressive.
The historic structure is 21 minutes from Camella Laoag. A house and lot in Laoag would provide you with an idyllic environment where you can enjoy historic sites daily.
Taal’s Minor Basilica of St. Martin of Tours
The name can be misleading since Minor Basilica St. Martin of Tours is the largest cathedral not just in the Philippines, but in Asia.
The massive baroque-style church sits atop a hill overlooking the majestic Balaybay Bay. It’s one of the most popular churches to visit during Holy Week because of these views, so you’ll do well to get settled in a home in Taal.
Camella Taal is a sought-after neighborhood that gives you unparalleled access to sites like the Basilica, Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, and Tagaytay. There are plenty of attractions you can within the church’s vicinity.
Cebu’s San Guillermo de Aquitania Parish Church
The humble parish church in the South of Cebu, San Guillermo de Aquitania Parish Church, was built in the early 1800s and furnished with Rococo and Baroque designs.
It also boasts impressive ceiling and tiling patterns which culminate in an elaborate altar with carved religious statues. The church is also notable for serving as the shelter for locals when they were under attack by Moros.
The church is located in an area with loads of natural attractions, too, a leisurely drive from Camella Cebu. While you’re there, you can visit nearby beaches and springs.
Cagayan de Oro’s St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral
Withstanding numerous earthquakes and retaining its original architecture, St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral is a sight to behold. It even survived a World War that ravaged Cagayan de Oro.
Its imposing facade has stood tall throughout Cagayan de Oro’s history and foundation. It’s one of the rare Neo-Gothic structures that are well-preserved to this day.
If you’re in the city in search of a house and lot in CDO with impeccable architecture, then Camella in CDO is your best bet. It provides you with just the right European flair, paired with Filipino sensibilities, much like the cathedral.
Exploring Beyond the Mainland: Island Provinces and National Parks
Several island provinces in the Philippines provide tranquil retreats for those seeking a quiet and meaningful Holy Week. Some of the best include:
Bohol: Famous for its historic churches and peaceful beaches.
Guimaras: Known for its religious processions and pristine coastlines.
Palawan: Ideal for silent retreats and nature immersion.
Pangasinan: Home to the Hundred Islands National Park which fosters a sense of awe and wonder, prompting reflection on the divine creation.
Camella is your best start-off point
Whichever region or city you decide to visit this Holy Week, make Camella your springboard for these trips. Camella properties are intentionally located so that you have access to these amazing sites.
Whether it’s Holy Week or otherwise, a house and lot in Camella ensures that you’re within reach of attractions and historic destinations.
Know more about this topic by checking out this blog:
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