MANILA, Philippines – Aside from "Visita Iglesia," some Christians travel to various places in the Philippines to visit them, related to their faith. This is called "pilgrimage tourism."
Here are some of the most famous places visited in the Philippines during Holy Week:
1. Quiapo Church/National Shrine of the Black Nazarene, Manila
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| Quiapo Church | Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons |
Located in the heart of Manila, Quiapo Church, officially known as the National Shrine of the Black Nazarene, is one of the most recognized places of devotion in the Philippines.
Devotees visit the church throughout the year, especially during the Feast of the Black Nazarene every January, where millions participate in the procession known as Traslacion.
2. Manaoag Church/Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Manaoag, Pangasinan
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| Manaog Church in Pangasinan | Photo courtesy: Our Pangasinan |
Located in the province of Pangasinan, the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag is a revered pilgrimage site for devotees of Mary. Pilgrims from distant places come to pay homage to the Blessed Virgin of Manaoag, seeking her blessings for healing from illness, good health, protection, and guidance in life.
3. Magellan's Cross, Cebu
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| The Summit Express file photo. |
This is a historic landmark considered a symbol of the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. It was erected in 1521 by Ferdinand Magellan, a Spanish explorer, as a symbol of the acceptance of Christianity in Cebu.
It is said that the original cross contains a piece of wood from the cross on which Jesus was crucified at Calvary.
It is located inside a small kiosk near the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Magellan’s Cross is one of the main attractions in Cebu, visited by many tourists and devotees during the procession and feast of the Sto. Niño every January.
4. Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Cebu
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| Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons |
Beside Magellan's Cross stands the aforementioned basilica, considered one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It is known as the home of the image of the Sto. Niño, regarded as one of the most important religious icons in the country.
The basilica was founded in 1565 by the Spaniards and was rebuilt in 1735 after a fire destroyed the original church.
It is one of the most popular destinations in Cebu, especially during the feast of the Sto. Niño in January, when thousands of devotees visit to pay homage and pray.
The statue of the Sto. Niño is believed to have been found at the very spot where the basilica now stands, which is why it was built there.
5. Mount Banahaw, Quezon Province
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| Photo courtesy: Municipality of Sariaya, Quezon |
Mount Banahaw, considered a sacred mountain by many indigenous Filipinos, is a popular shrine for those seeking spiritual renewal and healing. It is a blessed mountain for various religious groups, including Christians, Muslims, and believers of indigenous faiths.
Devotees undertake treks to the mountain’s peaks in search of peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with nature.
6. Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Piat, Cagayan
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| Photo courtesy: catholicshrinebasilica.com |
Located in the northern province of Cagayan, the Basilica of Our Lady of Piat is a significant shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The basilica is known for the dark-skinned image of Our Lady of Piat, which is believed to possess miraculous powers.
Devotees visit the basilica throughout the year, seeking the Virgin Mary's intercession for various intentions, including healing, protection, and thanksgiving.
7. Kamay Ni Hesus Shrine, Quezon
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| The Summit Express file photo. |
Located on top of a hill in Lucban, Quezon, the Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is a popular pilgrimage site known for its towering statue of the Risen Christ and the Healing Church.
Devotees climb the 300-step stairway to reach the shrine, where they offer prayers, attend Mass, and seek spiritual healing and renewal.
8. Antipolo Cathedral/National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, Rizal
The Antipolo Church or Cathedral, officially known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, is a significant pilgrimage site in the Philippines for several reasons: its religious importance, miraculous image, historical value, scenic location, and cultural traditions.
It holds a special place in the hearts of Filipino Catholics, drawing devotees who seek spiritual peace, blessings, and guidance from Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage.
9. Grotto ng Mahal na Birhen ng Lourdes/Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto Shrine, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan
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| Photo courtesy: Tanglawan.ph |
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is located in Barangay Graceville, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. It features a replica of the famous grotto in Lourdes, France, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858.
This grotto serves as a place of prayer, reflection, and devotion for Catholics. Visitors often climb the steps leading to the grotto while praying the rosary or offering petitions to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The site becomes especially crowded during religious celebrations and special occasions, such as the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
Beyond its religious significance, the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes also offers a peaceful and scenic environment, making it a popular destination for both spiritual and recreational purposes.
10. Baguio Cathedral/Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, Baguio
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| Baguio Cathedral. Photo courtesy: Patrickroque01/Wikipedia |
The Baguio Cathedral, officially known as the Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, is a significant shrine due to its combination of religious, historical, cultural, and natural elements that attract both Catholics and tourists.
Visitors travel from far and wide to experience its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty.
Situated atop a hill overlooking the City of Baguio, the cathedral offers a peaceful and scenic environment ideal for prayer and reflection. Its elevated location adds to its appeal as a destination for devotees seeking a serene setting for spiritual journeying and contemplation.
11. Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, Baguio
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in Baguio City is a significant pilgrimage site due to reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary.
The grotto’s quiet and peaceful surroundings provide devotees with a fitting place for meditation, prayer, and spiritual journeying.
The natural setting, with its fresh greenery and scenic views, enhances the spiritual experience of visitors seeking comfort and tranquility. Many devotees regard their visit to the grotto as the source of miraculous healing and answered prayers.
These stories of faith and devotion have given the grotto a reputation as a place of miracles and divine intervention, further inspiring pilgrims to make the journey in hopes of receiving blessings and spiritual grace.
12. Baclaran Church/National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, Paranaque
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| Photo courtesy: CBCP News |
Baclaran Church, officially known as the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, is a prominent shrine located in Parañaque City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
It is a popular place of devotion for Filipino Catholics and other devotees from various places.
The church is widely known for the image of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, which is believed to perform miracles and offer assistance and comfort to those who pray to her. Baclaran Church is also famous for its weekly Masses, novenas, and other celebrations that attract thousands of people.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
