SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga. Ruben Enaje, has undergone the crucifixion ritual for the 35th time on Good Friday, using the solemn occasion to pray fervently for peace in conflict-stricken regions worldwide.
The event, held in the rural communities of Pampanga province, north of Manila, drew over a hundred spectators who watched as Enaje and nine other devotees were nailed to wooden crosses. Enaje, a 63-year-old carpenter and sign painter, has become a revered figure in the annual spectacle, symbolizing Christ’s suffering in the reenactment of the Way of the Cross.
Speaking ahead of the crucifixions, Enaje expressed his determination to continue the tradition despite his advancing age, citing requests from villagers to pray for various afflictions, including the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Gaza, and the South China Sea. He emphasized the ripple effects of these conflicts on global economies and the hardships faced by vulnerable populations.
Enaje’s personal journey with the crucifixion ritual dates back to the 1980s when he survived a fall from a three-story building, which he viewed as a miraculous escape. Since then, he has extended his penitential act as expressions of gratitude for his family’s recoveries from illnesses and as a means to secure job opportunities.
The annual crucifixion event in a rice field in San Pedro Cutud sees Enaje and fellow devotees endure physical hardship, carrying heavy crosses under the scorching sun before being nailed to them for five to ten minutes. The forms of penitence have changed throughout the years. In addition to the crucifixion, others go through alternative forms of sacrifice that include self-flagellation (magsalibatbat or magdarame), carrying a wooden cross as well as crawling on the public streets (kukusad).
Despite criticism from church leaders, who advocate for alternative forms of religious expression, the tradition persists, reflecting the unique blend of Catholicism and folk beliefs in the Philippines.
The Passion Play and Crucifixion begins at 3 pm and signals the culmination of the re-enactment. Individuals are nailed to wooden crosses on a makeshift Calvary using alcohol-soaked, two-inch nails.
Among the spectators this year was Maciej Kruszewski, a tourist from Poland, who sought to understand the significance of Easter in a different cultural context. The ceremony also includes other acts of penance, such as barefoot processions and self-flagellation, underscoring the profound spiritual significance attached to the event for many participants.
As Enaje contemplates the possibility of this being his final crucifixion due to his declining health, his enduring commitment to prayer and peace serves as a poignant reminder of the power of faith and compassion in troubled times.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
