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Good Friday to watch the bloody spectacle.
According to a witness at one village, a carpenter's hammer was used to drive five-inch [13 centimeter) steel nails through the palms and ankles of each penitent. Many of them screamed in agony as the nails penetrated their flesh, and most continued to weep while on the cross. To prevent excessive blood loss, they were removed from the cross after a few minutes and taken to a first aid station. Because there were only three crosses at the scene, most of the penitents had to wait for their turn. The event was witnessed by a horde of tourists, including some who had come from as far away as the United States.
Note: In recent years health officials in the Philippines have begun urging people to get tetanus vaccinations before going through the ordeal. Officials also recommend that the nails be pre-soaked in alcohol to disinfect them.
This engraving by Gustave Dore depicts the crucifixion of Jesus. He is shown between two other men who were crucified at the same time. The bible says that the sky became very dark while he was on the cross.
