TeamManila Tips: What to Do This Holy Week

Semana Santa is known to be one of the most significant occasions in Philippine culture. Devotion to Christ is highlighted through several church activities as it also gives time for people to reflect and rest this season.

Most Filipinos plan out of town trips while others decide to stay at home in this quiet week. And if you’re one of those who choose to indulge in a staycation then we’re here to take all your bum blues away. Because in this version of TeamManila Tips, we give you five meaningful Holy Week activities whether you decide to lock yourself at home or take a look around the metro.

1. Go on a Visita Inglesia
A Spanish phrase for “to visit churches,” Visita Inglesia is a great way to see our city’s beautiful churches. Start by visiting your local village’s basilica to checking out historical churches like the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros or the Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo.

2. Appreciate Quiapo
Holy Week means no traffic and that’s why it’s the perfect time to discover Quiapo and appreciate the sights around. Bring your camera for a photo walk or set foot inside the Quiapo Church and light a candle for your Lenten thoughts.

3. Set a movie date
Not inside the mall but at home with your family or friends. Enjoy classic Filipino movies like Sister Stella L by Mike de Leon or Ishmael Bernal’s masterpiece, Himala. It’s a cheap way to learn about faith while treating yourself to terrific storylines and visuals.

4. Take a Lenten walk
And by walk, we mean procession. There’s nothing more Filipino than lining behind a patron saint’s carroza with a rosary and candle in hand. Aside from reflecting in prayer, you get to burn calories, too.

5. Spend time with family
Because aside from Christmas, it’s the only holiday where every family member’s at home. Prepare a fancy dinner, play some board games, or simply hang-out with your parents, siblings, and extended families.

Categories TM Tips