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Over 6 Million Pilgrims Visit Antipolo Shrine on Good Friday
Massive Turnout for Good Friday 'Alay Lakad'
On the dawn of Good Friday, April 3, 2026, more than 6 million pilgrims flocked to the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, also known as the Antipolo Cathedral, in Antipolo, Philippines. This pilgrimage is part of the annual 'Alay Lakad' tradition during Holy Week, where Catholic faithful walk for tens of kilometers from neighboring areas such as Pasig and Quezon City to visit the shrine. Some devotees even begin their journey from their homes.
Pilgrims undertake this walking pilgrimage to offer fervent prayers and demonstrate their faith through enduring suffering during Semana Santa. The Corpuz Family from Parañaque City, interviewed at the shrine, expressed that the pilgrimage was a blessing, mentioning that they had prayed for children after 12 years of waiting and now have two. Junie Torre, a language instructor from Quezon City, said he trains nurses for abroad and understands their struggles, so he wanted to pray for their earnest desire to help their families and express gratitude.
Vendors' Sales Decline Amidst Crowds and Upcoming Liturgical Activities
Despite the massive influx of devotees, vendors surrounding the cathedral reported a decline in sales. One vendor noted that prices were high and people seemed to have no money, focusing solely on their pilgrimage. This suggests that pilgrims are primarily focused on religious acts rather than spending. Authorities anticipate even larger crowds later in the day, with more liturgical activities scheduled, including the start of the Mass of the Lord's Passion, the Siete Palabras (Seven Last Words) at 12 noon, the Veneration of the Cross at 3 PM, and the Procession of the Burial of Christ at 6 PM.
*Source: YouTube: ABS-CBN News (2026-04-03)*
