TACLOBAN CITY — The Archdiocese of Palo is preparing for Holy Week 2025 while tackling key concerns such as traffic congestion, crowd control, and emergency health services, said Rev. Fr. Chris Militante, director for social communications, during a press conference held on April 7 at the City Hall Media Lounge.
Militante acknowledged the strong support of local government units, especially the Tacloban City government, but stressed the need for traffic rerouting plans due to ongoing roadworks that may disrupt religious activities.
“The support of our local government units, such as the city government, has been very significant. That said, the Church is hoping for rerouting schemes for our people and additional measures to manage the roads,” he said.
With the expected influx of devotees—including tourists and even non-Catholics who often find spiritual renewal during Holy Week—the archdiocese is also reinforcing its plans to ensure safety, order, and immediate medical response.
Fr. Militante shared that preparations are in place, particularly at major religious sites like the Palo Metropolitan Cathedral.
These include the establishment of police assistance desks, medical assistance counters, and coordination with the Department of Health and local government officials.
“In each of our churches, especially in Palo, we have what we call police assistance desks. We also have ready medical assistance counters and tents in place, with active participation from the Department of Health and the LGU to meet urgent needs,” he said.
Holy Week observances will commence with Palm Sunday, followed by confessions scheduled from Monday to Wednesday. The Easter Triduum, which includes Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil on Saturday, will mark the culmination of the weeklong reflection.
(JOHN LORENZ LESIGUEZ, LNU STUDENT INTERN)
