On a sweltering Good Friday with the Summer sun shedding full brunt over the skies of Mansalay, a de facto stage in a conspicous corner stages their version of Musical Senakulo, teeming with locals and tourists. One after another, trying to breach the crude barrier to have a glimpse of the actor and actress in full attire lip-syncing against a pre-recorded musical line-up, easing up their showmanship. One must understand how the Mansalay locals get deep into their Lenten “Panata”. Contrary to popular belief that Morions and self-flagellation exist within their imagined geographical boundaries, I am surprised by how these practices and faith expressions have already reached this part of Mindoro main island, transcending geographical and political inter-island boundaries.

I have seen penitents in my hometown in Pampanga, all my life, and have witnessed the grand Moriones in Marinduque. That thrilled me to see these same practices in Mansalay. I cannot forget a self-flagellant dramatically whipping his back, donning an exaggerated crown of leaves, covered face and dress-like from leaves threading slowly on the main highway. It is undeniable to smell the pungent stench of fresh blood, seemingly enhanced by the noontime sun. 

Then, one after the other, in glittering and ornate full armor, almost true-to-life, and whimsical masks, as if, magically, entering the Good Friday Scene – the Morions of Mansalay. We have spoken to the formal group forming the Buen Viaje Morions, which they said was officially organized in 2016, which is almost a decade as of this writing. Morions are well-known in Marinduque, with hordes of penitents lining themselves around the heart-shaped island of different age and sizes. Read more about my MORIONES here. 

For them, the 15-20 kilogram full suit is their own version of “cross”. The headpiece or the Morion Mask alone weighs an average of 5-8kg. The body armor depicting steel or iron chest plates, thick-furry capes and the Roman-style footwear, all with many details and ornaments. Now, wear these and saunter the streets under the Summer sun. You know it already. As other faiths shun these gory and unique Lenten vows (Panata), according to them, they still continue and strongly believe in the tradition. As many of them have spoken the miracles and wishes granted due to their panata. 

The Buen Viaje Group said that there are only about roughly, 30 headcounts of Morion penitents in the town of Mansalay, a measly number compared to its grand counterpart in Marinduque, even the town of Boac alone. But, for them, the Mansalay Morions believe that their faith and sacrifice would bring more favorable divine favors. The Catholic Church leaders have already announced their staunch disagreement with the gory practice, hence, it is a deeply intertwined and woven practice in the Lenten culture of each town. Still prevalent and evident, even in this Age of Information. 

Growing up with a protestant faith, I was taught that these practices are against the New Testament. I myself actively shun these vows. But, being exposed to the diverse expression and reverence of each town’s heritage and tradition, I came to understand and reflect on their unique and deeply personal versions of Panata. They gained by deep respect and understanding. 

We are an archipelago of different ethnicities. No one is above another. But every faith and practice is uniquely beautiful, albeit diverse. Learn to understand this diversity and not be one with cultural adversities. Mansalay Morions has taught me that, despite low numbers of Morion penitents, the vow begins within oneself. They said the vow would be completed on the 18th year. But most of the Morions I asked plan to perform the lifetime vow. The youngest is 22 years of age, with some of the armor parts being passed down from their older generations. Will the Mansalay Morion die sooner? There are children who expressed their interest in continuing. Hence, the clear future of this “panata” this side of Oriental Mindoro.