BALAAN CROSS. The highlight of the devotees’ visit in Guimaras will be on Good Friday when pilgrims witness the theatrical play about the ‘Passion of Christ’ starting from the Jordan Plaza, passing through Stations of the Cross and will end at the Balaan Bukid. (Photo by Perla Lena)
ILOILO CITY — There’s more to the province of Guimaras than its sweet mangoes. It boasts of “faith” destinations that are quite apt for Lenten season.
Liberty Ferrer, tourism officer of the province, on Wednesday said devotees may opt to visit the either the “Balaan Bukid” or the Holy Family Hills in Jordan and San Lorenzo towns, respectively.
As early as March 28, some pilgrims have already started to visit the Balaan Bukid, the highest part of the province that can be found in Jordan, overlooking Iloilo City.
The highlight of the devotees’ visit will be on Good Friday when pilgrims witness the theatrical play about the “Passion of Christ” starting from the Jordan Plaza, passing through Stations of the Cross and will end at the Balaan Bukid.
For those who wanted to go straight to the Balaan Bukid, they may take the pump-boat ride from the Ortiz wharf in Iloilo City to “Pook” situated right at the foot of the Balaan Bukid or through Barangay Hoskyns.
Ferrer, however, advised pilgrims that if the traffic is heavy at the Ortiz wharf, then they can pass by the Parola and take a pump boat going to the municipality of Buenavista.
From there, they can travel to Jordan passing by San Lorenzo and dropping first at the Holy Family Hills in Barangay Tamburong.
Ferrer said the municipality also has its “Pamalandong sa Tamburong” with attractions such as life-size religious statues, Stations of the Cross.
It’s only recently that the town observes the “Pamalandong” every Lenten season, she added.
After visiting these two places, visitors are encouraged to stay for a visit to other sites in the province, normally in beaches.
The tourism officer said that accommodation establishments are all ready to accept visitors.
Just recently, an inspection was conducted among small eateries, gasoline stations, among others to check their comfort rooms and they committed to look into suggestions on how to improve their services.
The province is now ready this Lent, Ferrer said. The Guimaras Police Provincial Office (GPPO) has already laid down its security plan and traffic plan.
Proper coordination has also been undertaken with medical personnel, Philippine Red Cross and other responders in case of emergency.
At the Ortiz wharf, officials of the barangay have provided a four-lane ticketing area and mounted tents for pilgrims who wanted to pass by the area. (PNA)
