Crowds gathered along the narrow streets of Barangay Batasang Matanda in San Miguel, Bulacan, as devotees performed penitence on Good Friday. 

Local faith healer 66-year old Edgar Sangalang played the role of Jesus Christ, walking through the packed community under the noonday sun.

Despite the heat, people lined the streets, some offering water and snacks to those taking part in the ritual.

Ariel Crispin, a 62-year old  leader of the local faith healers’ group, explained: “Isinasalarawan lang namin ang paghihirap ng Panginoong Hesu-Kristo.”

(“We are simply portraying the suffering of Jesus Christ.”)

The reenactment featured locals playing Roman soldiers and mockers, following Jesus’ path to Calvary symbolized by the San Isidro Labrador Parish Church. As they marched, a man with a megaphone delivered a script laced with mockery, enhancing the realism of the performance.

“Kailangang makita ng mga kasama namin, para sila ay magising sa mabuti.”

(“People need to see this, so they may be awakened to do good.”)

The tradition, Crispin said, has deep roots in the community: “Almost 70 to 80 years na ito, mas dumadami pa.”

(“This has been going on for almost 70 to 80 years—and more people are joining.”)

“Dahil bilang samahan ng penitensiya, tagapagpa-alala kami sa kanila… na sana huwag maligaw.”

(“As a group performing this annual ritual, we see ourselves as reminders—so that people don’t lose their way.”)

“Ang bilin namin sa nanood, sana huwag kalimutan ang Panginoon Diyos, kasi Siya lang naman ang kailangan natin.”

(“Our message to those watching: don’t forget the Lord God—He is all we really need.”)

The audience swelled throughout the day. Some watched from rooftops, others climbed fences and posts to get a better view.

Crispin offered a reminder: “Basta papasok ang Mahal na Araw at Biyernes Santo, e, mangilin tayo.”

(“As Holy Week and Good Friday approach, we should observe them with prayer and fasting.”)

From time to time, the performer rested under the heat, pausing to bless the crowd or pray for the sick who come near.

“Yung paghawak, pag-ikot, maraming naniniwala na nakapagpapagaling siya.”

(“Many believe that his touch or presence brings healing.”)

The ritual concluded with a symbolic crucifixion. Some devotees would strike the actor’s body with sticks, while another inflicts small cuts to simulate wounds. The performance ended when “Jesus” collapses, signifying his death. At times, overwhelmed devotees faint as well.

Crispin hopes the ritual reminds people of the struggles they face today: “Kasi sa panahon ngayon, napakahirap na… nagkakaroon tayo ng maraming sakuna kaya yung panalangin na lang ang kailangan natin sa Panginoong Diyos.”

(“These days are so difficult, we’re facing many calamities. That’s why all we need now is to pray to Jesus Christ.”)