As ‘Alay Lakad’ to Antipolo resumes, priest reminds devotees of sacrifice, faith

As “alay lakad” resumes at the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage also known as Antipolo Cathedral, a church official on Maundy Thursday urged devotees to remember the essence of the tradition.

“Talagang isapuso po natin  na ito ay panalangin, pagsasakripisyo at pagpapahayag ng ating pananampalataya,” Antipolo Cathedral Rector Reverend Father Reynante Tolentino said in Ian Cruz’s report on “24 Oras."

(We should remember that this is a prayer, sacrifice, and expression of our faith.)

Tolentino also advised the public to remain vigilant against unscrupulous individuals.

“Pangalawa, paalala sa inyong lahat na ingatan natin ang ating sarili. Ingatan natin ang ating mga dala-dalahan para di po tayo mabiktima ng kung minsan nagsasamantala dahil sa dami ng tao,” he added.

(We should also remember to take care of ourselves, especially our belongings, against unscrupulous individuals.)

Around six million Catholic devotees are expected to troop at the country’s first international shrine for “alay lakad,” according to authorities. In 2019, the tradition drew around 4.2 million believers coming from various parts of the Philippines.

Members of the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the local government unit (LGU) are now gearing up for the influx of devotees to ensure the safety of the public.

Travelers, meanwhile, flocked to other tourist sites in the city including the Hinulugang Taktak National Park where different outdoor activities are also being offered.

Entrance to the park is free but the Antipolo LGU called on guests to maintain its cleanliness, adding the popular destination is a protected area.—Sundy Locus/LDF, GMA Integrated News