Good Friday in Brgy. Magsaysay, Malaybalay City

Rev. Fr. Leonardo Adaptar, Assistant Parish Priest of the San Isidro Cathedral, leads the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday at the Catholic Chapel of Our Lady of Fatima in Magsaysay, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. Contributed by Sean Sulugan/BukidnonNews.Net

Good Friday is the most solemn day in the Catholic calendar, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. No Mass is celebrated; instead, the Church observes the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion.

The service, usually held at 3:00 p.m., has three parts: the Liturgy of the Word, featuring the Passion narrative and intercessory prayers; the Veneration of the Cross, where the faithful show reverence; and Holy Communion, using hosts consecrated on Holy Thursday.

Churches reflect mourning—altars are bare, the tabernacle stands empty, and services begin and end in silence. Clergy wear red to symbolize Christ’s sacrifice.
Many also join the Stations of the Cross and observe fasting and abstinence, marking the day with prayer, reflection, and penitence – Courtesy of University of Santo Tomas (BukidnonNews.Net)

Good Friday Camping in Can-ayan, Malaybalay City
Photos Contributed by Johana Sawayan

Aside from going to Church for Holy Week activities, residents also flocked to relaxation sites to spend their Holidays. One of the local destinations for this purpose is the Sabangan Campsite in Brgy. Can-ayan, Malaybalay City. Campers spend overnight in pay camping sites for 360-degree views of pine trees, ridges, and a nearby river.

Located in Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City, Sabangan Campsite offers sweeping ridge views and pine landscapes, earning its nickname as the “New Zealand of Bukidnon.” It also serves as a jump-off point for Mt. Kiamo trekkers.

Reaching the campsite requires a 30-minute to 1-hour hike from the trailhead, with river crossings and open grasslands—generally beginner-friendly but muddy after rain. From the city proper (about 5 km), visitors travel by motorela up to a junction then by habal-habal (motorcycle for hire) to the jump-off point.

Fees are estimated to include ₱75 environmental, ₱50–₱75 camping, and ₱50 tent pitching. Basic amenities are available, but there is no mobile signal, offering a fully off-grid experience (BukidnonNews.Net)