Hundreds of devotees are starting to visit the Señor Divino Tesoro Shrine in Calasiao as Holy Week draws near.
The shrine, one of Pangasinan’s popular pilgrimage sites, attracts the faithful especially during Lent.
Devotees believe that touching the image of Jesus on the altar brings blessings and answers to prayers.
“Elementary pa lang ako, dito na ako pumapasok sa bahay na ‘yan, dito sa kabilakabilang kwarto niyan…” Ernesto Caragay, a long-time devotee, said.
“Kailangan hihingi sila ng bendisyon para lumakas sila at maganda ang buhay nila,” he added.
Each day, about 200 people arrive at the shrine.
Aileen Balesteros, the shrine’s caretaker, said the number of visitors is growing.
“Kasi itong dadating na Mahal na Araw, dumadagsa na sila,” she said.
Church leaders said they are ready to accommodate more visitors in the coming days.
