Pampanga's Lenten attractions to draw thousands of tourists, pilgrims

The Department of Tourism (DOT) regional office here said they expect the influx of local and foreign tourists in the province this coming Lenten season.

DOT regional Ronnie Tiotuico said Pampanga is considered a popular destination in Central Luzon during the Holy Week due to various activities in observance of the passion and death of Jesus Christ.

Tiotuico said the world-renowned Maleldo, a re-enactment of the Way of the Cross (Via Crusis) and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year.

He said some 40,000 to 50,000 spectators annually trooped to a makeshift Calvary in Barangays San Pedro Cutud, Sta Lucia, and San Juan to witness the nailing rites.

"This is on Good Friday alone. More tourists mean more income for the people," he said.

Aside from Maleldo rites, he said another crucifixion takes place in Barangay Lourdes Northwest in Angeles City.

The DOT official said tourists may also visit the old churches in the province for Visita Iglesia.

He said there are other sites in the province where people can commemorate the Lenten season like the Banal a Bundok, Dalan ning Krus in Barangay Ayala, Magalang town.

This is also a must-see place in the province. They may visit, pray and meditate through the life-sized sculptures of the 14 Stations of the Cross at the foot of Mt. Arayat.

Other Lenten activities include the generations-old, more colorful, non-bloody tradition on blasting a paper-mache effigy of Judas Iscariot and the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday in Sto. Tomas town.

"We are inviting everyone to come to Pampanga and witness the various activities as we observe the Lenten season," he added. (PNA)