In Pampanga, various expressions of devotion mark the observance of Holy Week, particularly the traditional Visita Iglesia.

A group of health enthusiasts from San Fernando City gathered for a "Run for Christ" event on Holy Thursday. 

Instead of using vehicles, they opted to run to different churches. Along the way, they paused to pray at the Stations of the Cross, persevering despite the scorching sun to complete the eight stations.

“Sana po gabayan po kami sa run na ito," John Matthew Manansala, one of the participants.

“Kahit na nakakapagod basta para kay Lord, kakayanin namin,"  Lenette Nucum, another participant, added.

The run covered a distance of 12 kilometers and visiting eight churches, this tradition has been observed for 12 years.

According to the event organizer, Rodnie Gonzales, the annual run promotes both physical health and spiritual devotion.

"We do a 12 kilometer run for our sacrifice run every year, we visit eight churches; we do visita Iglesia at the same time. Ang [aim] kasi namin dito is to also promote health not in the way of hurting yourself so maganda din po siya sa health," Gonzales said.

While some chose to run, others, like Ernie Cabrera, embarked on a different form of penance by biking to visit various churches in Pampanga.

Cabrera shared that this has been his devotion for over 15 years.

“Para sakripisyo para gunitain 'yung paghihirap ng panginoon nating Hesukristo," he said.

Meanwhile, some opted for the traditional practice of visiting churches across the province, reflecting on the significance of Holy Week in their own way.

According to the Catholic Church, individuals are encouraged to express their devotion in various ways during Holy Week, as they commemorate and live out the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.