As a kapampangan photographer, I’m always drawn to events that showcase unique cultures and traditions. This year, for Good Friday, again, I found myself captivated by the powerful Maleldo 2024 celebrations in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga.
The atmosphere in San Pedro Cutud, San Juan and Santa Lucia was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. Devotees, tourists, and locals alike gathered, a sea of faces reflecting a mix of curiosity, reverence, and quiet contemplation. The weight of Good Friday hung heavy in the air, but there was also an undercurrent of resilience and unwavering faith.
My lens focused on the central figures of Maleldo – the penitents. Men, weathered by time and devotion, prepared themselves for the ritual of crucifixion. This year, the legendary Ruben Enaje, participating in his 35th crucifixion, but also Wilfredo Salvador from San Juan and Fernando Mamangun from Sta. Lucia. Each face held a unique story, a lifetime of experiences that led them to this profound act of faith.
The act itself was a brutal beauty. The penitents, clad in white robes, were slowly raised onto the crosses. A hush fell over the crowd as the nails pierced flesh, a symbolic representation of Christ’s suffering. Despite the physical pain, the men remained stoic, their faces etched with determination.
But Maleldo 2024 was about more than just the central act. Throughout the day, devotees flagellated themselves as a form of penance, their rhythmic thumps echoing through the field. The raw emotion on their faces spoke volumes about the depth of their faith.
The sun began to set, casting long shadows across the scene, a sense of peace settled over the crowd. The day’s events were a stark reminder of the sacrifices made for our faith, but also a celebration of the unwavering spirit of the Filipino people.
This experience in the City of San Fernando during Maleldo 2024 will stay with me for a long time. It was a powerful display of devotion, captured not just in my photographs, but also in the hearts of everyone who witnessed it.
More photos in black and white:
Photos in full color:
