Every year on Good Friday during the Holy Week Season, Catholics went on a pilgrimage and one of the best known site is in Balaan Bikud, Guimaras. People in near by provinces flock to the Via Crosses (14 stations) to take on the journey that Jesus went through. In this essence, Catholics perform such "panata" or belief to experience hardship and reliving Christ' last moments on Earth during this time.
I went on this solo journey for my own "panata" last Holy Week from the usual Agony Hill in Alimodian. It was a decision I made for myself. I traveled solo without company, navigating devices or any research on my path. What I brought with me was my faith with the Lord, I knew he would never leave me and will always guide me to safety during my mini pilgrimage. It was a rejuvenating journey, a sense of renewal and accomplishment overflowed through me when I reached the top and entered the Chapel. It was a rewarding journey towards Christ.
Before you take on the journey, make sure to wear comfortable clothes, sneakers or rubber shoes, sun protections (sunblocks, hats, or caps, malong, arm protector, fan), towel, money, water or anything for hydration and food or snacks. It's a 30 minutes to an hour trek up the Hill depending on your pace and the number of people. I advise you to go on Holy Thursday with less people.
A devotee.
The 14th station.
The Chapel at the peak.
Over looking Ilolo City.
After the Via Crosses you can take a break by eating your meal and have a picnic or you could go to one of these food court huts to eat meals. They got you covered when it comes to food and drinks.
Going down from the Hill.
Another 14 station that starts from the bottom and other side of the Hill.
A 2 kilometer walk to the Jordan Port.
Getting there. From the Ortiz Port choose the lane specifically for Balaan Bukid, the boat will directly take you at the foot of the Hill where you could reach the first station. It's a 10-15 minutes ride for php 20. Start as early as 5am, the lines are a little disorganized and lacks a system since people keep cutting off lines. There's also a separate lane for passengers with and without bags just ask people assigned there. It took me 2 hours to get on the boat. There's a checkpoint prior to the ride for security purposes. Don't forget to write your name, sex, age and address in the manifest and also fares are collected on the boat. After the hike up, you go down on the other side of the Hill. There's no motorcycles or public vehicles waiting, you have to walk for 2 kilometers to the Jordan Port. Upon arriving at the port, you have to get in line for the boat ride again, Same system but the fare is down to php 14. Let's go!
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