Easter Fun in the Philippines

At least 23 people were crucified - one for the 24th time - in three villages north of Manila as the media recorded every moment from gantries erected around the crosses.

The Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines disapproves of the bloody spectacle that is a mark of the worshippers' faith, but is powerless to stop the annual ritual.

Foreigners were banned from taking part in the proceedings in Pampanga province's San Fernando city authorities after some did so last year merely so they could make a film of the event and poke fun at the rites.

"We don't want them to just make a mockery out of the tradition of the people here," said Ching Pangilinan, San Fernando tourism officer.

But in Cutud, a village about 50 miles north of Manila, the local McDonalds set up a stall selling ice-cream and drinks, while vendors went among the crowds.

There, the part Christ was played by Ruben Inaje, who was nailed to the cross for the 24th time in a ritual that has lasted for 55 years.

"When they put the nails in my palm, that's very painful", said the 49-year- old before his crucifixion. Nails are also driven through his feet. "Of course I'm nervous. But I pray deep in my heart. I feel much better when I get of the cross." Other devotees, watched by thousands of spectators, whipped themselves with bamboos on a rope. Some added broken glass and razor blades to the whips to ensure the blood flowed.