Philippine Catholics self-flagellate for Good Friday

STORY: Those who whipped and flagellated themselves said they believed it would cure illnesses and grant salvation from their sins on Good Friday.

"This is important for us because this is for our loved ones and those who are sick, we can include them in our prayers," said 50-year-old flagellant, Wendell dela Cruz. "Those illnesses and grievances, we can pray for them through our penitence."

The Catholic Church has expressed disapproval of these self-punishments as misinterpretations of faith, saying prayers and sincere repentance are enough to commemorate the observance of Lent, but devotees believe the rites will cleanse away their sins, cure illnesses and even grant wishes.