In the province of Pampanga in the Philippines, flagellation (hurting onceself for religious discipline or public penance)has been annually practiced especially during the holyweek season. In here, flagellants triy to re-create the passion of Christ.
In the western world it is almost unheard that people go to this extent to cleanse and purify themselves for the Glory of God. A flagellant I was told is vowed to perform this ritual annually for 6 years and then is passed on to another member of the family. In the event that a flagellant is unable to fulfil his vow, if he goes to work abroad for instance, a close male relative will assume the burden of responsibility. Throughout this process, familial ties are strengthened, particularly in times of crisis, such as acute illness, or if a conflict between kin is resolved, or a debt of gratitude (utang na loob) repaid.
What is striking in this experience is the presence of the fiesta atmosphere among the crowd looking at the flagellant like a circus freakshow. Street vendors selling liquor proliferate the place including peddlers letting children bet on some gambling games. It adds to the confusion as to how Holyweek should be experienced: to be solemn or to be jubilant
