Vizcaya’s ‘Calvary Hill’ being readied for influx of pilgrims

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines  â€“ This province’s scenic Bangan Hill, the most favored destination during the Holy Week, is being readied for the expected influx of pilgrims, especially on Good Friday.

Also dubbed as “Calvary Hill,” Bangan Hill, which overlooks the expanse of this capital town, draws pilgrims during the Holy Week as Christ’s passion, crucifixion and resurrection are reenacted yearly.

“Besides renewing one’s faith, visiting the place this time of the year is also an opportunity for us to strengthen our family bond. The hill is really a perfect place for meditation,” said Melfei Bungihan, a professor of Saint Mary’s University here.

The yearly Good Friday spectacle at Bangan Hill, a government-protected area, is organized by the Bayombong diocese led by Bishop Ramon Villena.

“It’s a yearly tradition for us to pay homage to the place, especially during Good Friday. The ambience is a perfect place for spiritual renewal. You can feel the presence of the Lord there,” said Ruby Ojadas of the local Rotary Club.

Dariok Hill in Barangay Balintocatoc in Santiago City, Isabela is another pilgrimage site in the region, after Mayor Amelita Navarro transformed the once idle hill into a Holy Week destination in 2001.

Dariok Hill has more than 80 religious statues, and it would take a 50-meter uphill trek from the Last Supper to the resurrection site.

Meanwhile, in Iguig Hill, Cagayan’s own version of Calvary Hill, pilgrims will find oversized statues of the Stations of the Cross.

Other pilgrimage sites in the region are Our Lady of Piat Church in Cagayan and the Guibang Church in Gamu, Isabela.