Flagellations, crucifixions prohibited again in 2022. Photo courtesy of CSF FB page
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – For the third straight year, there will be no bloody observance of the Holy Week in this city where the Good Friday actual crucifixion rites draw tens of thousands of visitors, both domestic and foreign.
On Monday, March 28, Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago issued Executive Order CMO2022-20 – An Order to Disallow the 2022 Maleldo (Crucifixion Rites) and its Related Activities in the City of San Fernando from April 10 to 17, 2022.
Citing the need to enforce protocols relative to the Alert Level 1 classification of the city, the EO explicitly prohibits in all barangays of the city:
Traditional passion plays or “Senakulo, Tira Bakal” and the like;
Self-flagellation of penitents or “Magdarame/Magsalibatbat”;
Re-enactment of the Way of the Cross or “Pagpapako sa Krus.”
“Instead, devotees, parishioners, and the general public are encouraged to celebrate Holy Week by attending Masses and other religious services and activities,” the EO said.
It did not mention though if the traditional “Pabasa” or the singing of the Passion of Christ in makeshift shrines put up in barangays, or the religious processions, particularly on Holy Wednesday and Good Friday, are allowed or prohibited.
Violators, the EO said, may be prosecuted under RA 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act. BZL
