Nine people ready to be crucified in Cutud, Pampanga's passion of Christ reenactment

Nine devotees are confirmed to be crucified in the annual reenactment of Christ's crucifixion in Barangay San Pedro Cutud, San Fernando, Pampanga on Good Friday.

According to "Balitanghali" on Wednesday, San Pedro Cutud barangay captain Zoilo Castro said two of this year's "Senakulo" participants are from Mindoro while the rest are from Pampanga.

The first to be nailed to the cross on Friday will be 57-year-old Ruben Enaje who has been portraying Jesus Christ for 32 years.

But due to old age and the ritual's impact on his health, Enaje said he might be taking part in the crucifying rites for only two more years.

The Department of Health (DOH) had discouraged actors in engaging in crucifixion rites and "penitensiya" or self-flagellation due to possible infections despite an attempt to sterilize the objects used.

Following the health warning, each participant in the highly-covered ritual are expected to bring their own nails, the report added.

According to the report, four nails to be used on Enaje in the symbolic ceremony on Friday had been soaked in alcohol for almost a year.

As 50,000 tourists are expected to witness this year's spectacle, the report said around 400 security officers are set to be deployed.

Local officials also advised their visitors to dress appropriately in respect to the barangay's highly-sought event. — Margaret Claire Layug/LA, GMA News