Manila: The re-enactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ 2,000 years ago has become a growing tourist attraction in the sleepy town of Pampanga in central Luzon. However, it has also become a dangerous passion for many devotees, authorities said.
Every year, 30,000 people, including from nearby towns, local and foreign tourists have visited Cutud, Pampanga, a veritable site of the real life crucifixion of more than 20 devotees, and dozens of flagellants.
"The number of people coming here in Cutud is not decreasing," said village chairman Remegio dela Cruz.
Those engaged in self-crucifixion have been known to devotees and the media as stars of the gory and holy event held every Good Friday in Cutud.
Biblical station
Apart from them, almost all members of Cutud town are now participating in the yearly street theatre that depicts the Biblical Station of the Cross. It delineates the events before and after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, de la Cruz said.
"We are trying to make people appreciate our street theatre," he said, boasting of new theatrical techniques being employed by committee members in charge of the yearly event.
But there are many detractors to the rites in Cutud. The influential Catholic Church said that physical crucifixion takes away the real meaning of the sacrifice made by Jesus Christ to mankind.
To become crucified again means not trusting the real essence of what happened 2,000 years ago, many Catholic leaders have argued.
At the same time, health officials have warned that crucifixion and flagellation could be dangerous to all devotees.
