Faith and Filipino spirit shine in Holy Week specials
Devotees take part in a “pabasa” at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Sto. Niño in Bago Bantay, Quezon City, on Holy Monday, 14 April 2025, as part of Holy Week observances. Pabasa is a Filipino Catholic tradition in which participants chant verses from the Pasyong Mahal, a narrative recounting the life, passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Analy Labor
Filipino viewers will be treated to a diverse tapestry of stories this Holy Week, as two major programs are set to air heartfelt specials — one highlighting real-life faith and devotion, the other exploring legends and spiritual mysteries.
Stories of faith and devotion
The country’s longest-running morning show, Unang Hirit (UH), will launch a multi-part feature titled “Mga Kuwento ng Pag-asa” to showcase moving stories of faith from across the country.
In Sibonga, Cebu, the program will spotlight the devotion to Our Lady of Lindogon, a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary believed to have wept tears of blood. Pilgrims are expected to patiently line up to offer prayers and thanks.
The segment will also feature unique Holy Week traditions, such as Patunob in Misamis Oriental, where devotees walk over the image of Our Lady of Lourdes for healing, and the Maleldo rites in Pampanga, where penitents reenact Christ’s Passion — with some even undergoing crucifixion.
Unang Hirit will also feature viral priest Rev. Fr. Mat De Guzman, known for his uplifting message, “Habang buhay, may pag-asa.” This Holy Week, Fr. Mat delivers an inspiring reflection, urging devout Catholics to make it a habit to pray, give, and love during the Lenten season.
The program will also roll out its annual Bantay-Biyahe initiative, distributing essentials and small gifts to travelers at bus terminals nationwide.
Revisiting legends and mysteries
Meanwhile, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho will take viewers on a more mysterious journey with its Easter special airing Sunday (April 20).
It will revisit the alleged Marian apparition on Cabra Island, Occidental Mindoro, in the 1960s — an event that inspired the film Himala. The show will explore witness accounts and the spiritual legacy the event left behind.
In Palawan, the program will follow the case of a young woman exhibiting disturbing behavior, sparking conversations on mental health in remote communities.
In Samar, the team will investigate a rumored plane crash atop a remote waterfall, questioning whether it was a forgotten tragedy or a piece of local folklore.
Other segments will explore the uncertain future of abaca farmers in Negros Oriental amid the country’s shift to polymer currency. Lighter features will include the chocolatey sapote fruit, a cross-shaped plant in Guimaras believed to bring luck, and a mud-based skincare trend in South Cotabato.
These Holy Week specials promise more than reflection — they will showcase the faith, resilience, and cultural richness of the Filipino spirit. From sacred rituals to enduring beliefs, each story will echo a deeper search for meaning during this solemn time.