SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga -- Despite the soaring temperatures, both the curious and the faithful braved the searing heat to witness the annual Crucifixion Re-enactment in Barangay San Pedro in Cutud on Good Friday, April 18. 

Aside from the locals, it was attended by local and foreign tourists as the ritual has become an attraction.

The program lasted for more than two hours where the audience saw local Ruben Enaje's performance as Jesus. Now 64 years old, he has been crucifying himself for some 36 years as part of his faith and vow.

Enaje told the media that this year marks his final crucifixion, ending nearly three decades of performing the role of Jesus during Good Friday.

He began his annual vow after surviving a life-threatening accident, which he considers a miracle. Since then, his crucifixion has been a personal expression of gratitude for what he calls his “second life.”

As Enaje retires from the role, Arnold Maniago is set to take his place. Maniago is no stranger to the tradition, having performed crucifixions for the past 24 years.

More than 100 devotees also did penance — they went through the so-called "burol," where they prostrated themselves, prayed, and offered their headgear as a sacrifice to the cross.

The Catholic Church in the Philippines officially discourages the decades-old practice.