Holy Week Celebrations in Bacolod

Holy Week is the week beginning on Palm Sunday and ending on Easter Sunday. In the Philippines, many Filipinos begin taking off work that Sunday (if they work that day) or Monday and start to head home. It is known as "the exodus". However, even though it begins as early as Palm Sunday, "the exodus" doesn't hit its highest point until Thursday (known as "Maundy Thursday" in the Philippines and "Holy Thursday" in most Western countries). At this point, the roads are incredibly crowded and it is definitely not recommended to travel unless you are part of this exodus.

Around Holy Week, there's always an influx of foreigners into the Philippines. This isn't because the foreigners are religious, but it is because Filipinos love Holy Week and want to share it with the rest of the world.

The Procession

Unlike Western nations, the Philippines has its biggest Holy Week celebration not on Easter but on Good Friday. In Bacolod City this celebration includes "The Procession". "The Procession" is similar to stations of the cross, except the stations are on floats and they drive around the city with people following them and praying (or talking for the most part). Its an enormous draw for tourists and city goers. Not only do many people want to be part of "The Procession", but many people only wish to see the dedication of the religious people. There are crowds all along the route, simply watching the people and the floats.

The largest following is always behind the float showing Jesus dead on the cross.

"The Procession" lasts over one hour.

Black Saturday Mass

No mass is held during the daytime on Black Saturday. The first mass is a "Vigil Mass" at 9pm on Saturday night. This includes the San Sebastian Cathedral.

Easter Sunday Events

Small events take place every Easter Sunday throughout the day. You can find Easter Egg hunts at hotels and resorts, mass being held as a vigil and early morning. As well, San Sebastian Cathedral generally has before dawn activities.

Mall hours during Holy Week

Holy Thursday: Malls are closed (except Lopues)

Good Friday: Malls are closed (except Lopues)

Black Saturday: All malls are open

Easter Sunday: All malls are open

Other Activities

On Good Friday, many Bacolodnons head to Talisay's St. Nicolas of Tolentino Church to pray and touch the statues on the alter. The statues are said to have healing powers.

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