ANTIPOLO City: The traditional Alay Lakad to the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage was able to gather over five million devotees, according to the Antipolo City police.
However, the figure is lower compared to last year, where there was an estimated 7,400,000 devotees
“Nakitaan natin nang bahagyang pagbaba talaga. Noong nakaraang taon ako na po ‘yung hepe rito. There was really a significant change doon sa volume ng tao. Maaari natin ma-attribute ito siguro sa init ng panahon,” Police Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Manongdo, Antipolo PNP chief, said.
Among the countless activities this Holy Week for Filipinos include a ‘pilgrimage walk’ where devotees troop towards “a sacred journey” on foot up to the Antipolo Cathedral.
Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares thanked the devotees who tirelessly made the Alay Lakad.
Courtesy: Jun-Andeng Ynares FB
“This is an example of the unwavering faith of every Filipino. Camaraderie, bonds and faith,” Mayor Ynares said.
The Catholic faithful usually participates in the 17-kilometer pilgrimage walk to the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo City.
It’s often done during Holy Week, especially on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday, as a way to express penance, thanksgiving, or a specific petition to God.
The belief behind Alay Lakad is that the act of walking, often over a considerable distance, is a symbolic expression of faith and devotion. It can also be a way to bring people together in prayer and reflection.
Banner Photo Courtesy: Jun-Andeng Ynares FB page
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