Every year, hundreds of Filipinos participate in a reenactment of the crucifixion

While the rest of the world decorated eggs, many people in the Philippines celebrated Easter with something more extreme –- self-flagellation and crucifixion. Every year in widely Catholic country, people continue the rare tradition.

Although it is frowned about by the Catholic church, both men and women still take part in the tradition. Some people choose to beat themselves using flails as they walk with a cross, while others choose to be nailed to a cross – two acts which reflect the suffering of Jesus Christ.

Volunteers who dress up as Romans hammer three-inch nails onto the hands and the feet of the volunteers before the cross is raised for hundreds of people to see. For many people, this is not just a show – it is a sacrifice and a way to give thanks.