Siain Port: Embracing the Rustic Horizon of Plaridel’s Coastal Charm
If you are driving along the Maharlika highway between Plaridel and Gumaca in Quezon Province, there is no way you can miss the sight of
General Luna, Quezon
March with the Senturyons
A Holy Week Journey in General Luna, Quezon
Share
Tweet
Email
- General Luna, Quezon
Every Holy Week, General Luna, Quezon transforms into a powerful display of faith through Buhay na Kubol—a community-led dramatization of Christ’s Passion. A key element is the Senturyon, portraying Roman soldiers in hand-crafted armor, engaging in symbolic street battles known as Estokadahan. More than performance, it’s an act of devotion rooted in tradition, sacrifice, and shared belief. This unique cultural experience offers raw storytelling, spiritual depth, and a glimpse into how one town turns Holy Week into something unforgettable.
Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into March with the Senturyons with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!
Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to March with the Senturyons. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.
General Luna, Quezon might not be the first place that pops into your head when planning Holy Week travel—but maybe it should be. Every Lenten season, this quiet town transforms into a powerful stage of devotion and local storytelling through a unique tradition: the Buhay na Kubol Senturyons.
Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.
Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.
A TRADITION OLDER THAN YOU’D THINK
Here’s the thing: locals in General Luna will tell you this devotion goes way back—possibly even predating the more famous Moriones of Marinduque. There’s no exact date etched in stone, but one thing’s certain—it’s been part of their culture for generations. It’s a legacy passed down, reshaped by time but held tightly by faith.
The term Senturyon comes from “centurion”—those Roman soldiers from the Passion of Christ. But this isn’t just a re-enactment for show. What you’ll witness here is raw, heartfelt, and striking—complete with dusty sword fights, cries of anguish, and armor crafted by hand from found materials.
BUHAY NA KUBOL: MORE THAN A PLAY, IT’S A PANATA
Let me explain. The beating heart of this tradition is the Buhay na Kubol—a live dramatization of Christ’s final days. Locals step into the roles of Jesus, Mary, apostles, and of course, the Roman soldiers or Senturyons. They’re not actors. They’re farmers, carpenters, students, mothers—ordinary people taking on extraordinary roles. But this isn’t for applause. It’s a panata—a personal vow. Some participants fast. Others walk barefoot under the scorching sun, don armor for hours, or take on roles as a form of thanksgiving, sacrifice, or spiritual renewal.
A WHOLE TOWN TRANSFORMED
Walk through General Luna during Holy Week and you’ll feel it in the air—it’s like time slows down and the town collectively steps into another world. During the Parada ng Senturyon, the streets fill with locals dressed in handmade Roman armor—cardboard breastplates, feathered helmets, and shields painted with care.
Even the kids join in. You’ll see boys, sometimes no older than ten, marching with wooden swords, eyes serious and determined. And when the street battles break out—known locally as Estokadahan—you’re not just watching theater. It’s part-spiritual ritual, part-community drama, symbolizing the never-ending conflict between good and evil.
RELATED STORIES
Kesong Puti Festival: Celebrating Santa Cruz, Laguna’s Culinary Heritage
Santa Cruz, a first-class urban municipality and the capital of Laguna province in the Philippines, is a place where tradition, culture, and culinary delights converge.
Lucban Pahiyas Festival: A Spectacularly Colorful Tradition in Quezon
Every May 15, the charming town of Lucban, Quezon bursts into a dazzling display of colors, artistry, and cultural pride as it celebrates the Pahiyas
Tanauan Church: Triumph of Faith in the Midst of Challenges
It was once a stone church, that was built during the Spanish colonial era in Tanauan, Batangas, and was known as Tanauan Church or St
WHY IT’S WORTH THE TRIP
So why should General Luna make your Holy Week list? Because this isn’t about spectacle—it’s about living faith. It’s intimate, grounded, and deeply human. No stages, no sponsors—just a community breathing life into tradition.
For photographers and storytellers, it’s a goldmine of color, emotion, and local detail. For anyone looking to reconnect—spiritually or culturally—it offers a moment of reflection that hits different.
IF YOU PLAN TO GO
Best time to visit? Holy Week, especially Good Friday and Easter Sunday, when most of the dramatizations unfold. From Manila, take a bus to Lucena City (about 3 to 4 hours), then a jeep or van to General Luna.
There are no big hotels in town, but nearby areas like Lucena or Sariaya offer decent accommodation. If you’re up for something immersive, ask locals about homestay options—you’ll likely get stories over breakfast, too.
Quick heads-up: Be respectful. This isn’t just something to “cover” or “watch.” It’s sacred to the people. Dress appropriately, be mindful when taking photos, and if you’re invited to join in prayer or quiet reflection—take that chance.
CLOSING THOUGHTS: THIS ISN’T A FESTIVAL. IT’S FAITH IN ACTION.
Let’s be clear—Buhay na Kubol Senturyons isn’t a festival. It’s a vow, a ritual, a piece of living heritage. It’s memory wrapped in devotion, carried by ordinary folks who—every year—do something extraordinary.
So if you’re searching for something meaningful this Holy Week, consider stepping off the usual trail. Skip the noise, forget the fanfare.
I’m looking forward to the stories and images leaving a lasting positive impression on you, just as they have on me. Stay connected with us on social media for a weekly exploration of travel assignments and breathtaking visuals. Our focus is on championing local tourism, showcasing small businesses, and honoring the magnificence of the Philippines through the content we curate. Join us in spreading the word by clicking the ‘share’ buttons below. Your support means the world to us.
EXPLORE MORE about
Quezon
Moriones Festival: A Living Tradition in the Heart of the Bondoc Peninsula
If you think the Moriones Festival is something you can only witness in Marinduque, think again. Over the years, this dramatic, mask-filled tradition has quietly
Corregidor Island: A Historic Fortress at the Gateway of Manila Bay
Cavite’s Corregidor Island forms the largest part of the harbor defenses of Manila Bay, together with El Fraile Island, Caballo Island, and Carabao Island, which
Our Lady of Caysasay Shrine: A Sacred Treasure of Taal
Known as the Caysasay Church, the Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay is located in Barrio Caysasay, Taal, Batangas. This is a coral-hewn chapel that
Sambalilo Festival: A Colorful Celebration of Tradition and Talent in Laguna
The Sambalilo Festival in Cavinti, Laguna, is a vibrant and prosperous celebration that shines a spotlight on the rich tradition of handmade sombreros crafted from
Tagaytay City: A Breathtaking Escape in the South
Nestled in the province of Cavite, Tagaytay City is one of the most sought-after destinations in the Philippines. Just a short drive from Metro Manila,
Siain Port: Embracing the Rustic Horizon of Plaridel’s Coastal Charm
If you are driving along the Maharlika highway between Plaridel and Gumaca in Quezon Province, there is no way you can miss the sight of
Enchanted Kingdom: A Thrilling Adventure in the Premier Theme Park Destination of the Philippines
As one of the most popular theme park destinations in the Philippines, Enchanted Kingdom is located in Santa Rosa of Laguna Province, where it is
Morong Church: A Historical Gem in Rizal Province
One of the most photographed churches in the province of Rizal, the Morong Church is located in Morong of the Rizal Province, and is considered
Siglo Modern Filipino: A Taste of Tradition in Tagaytay
If you’re looking for a real Filipino dining experience, Siglo Modern Filipino in Tagaytay City, Cavite, is the place to be. With the motto “Likhang
Pulong Pasig Sandbar: The Hidden Sandbar Paradise of Calauag Quezon
Pulong Pasig Sandbar, situated in the pristine coastal waters of Calauag, Quezon, is a breathtaking sandbar that emerges and disappears with the tides, offering an
Malagonlong Bridge: Exploring Magnificent Heritage of Tayabas, Quezon
The Malagonlong Bridge is among the 11 historical bridges of the city of Tayabas located in Quezon Province. This bridge is one of the oldest
Gilingan Festival: Celebrating Siniloan’s Rich Heritage and Foundation
Siniloan’s Gilingan Festival is a vibrant and meaningful celebration that serves as a living tribute to the town’s rich history, cultural heritage, and the industrious
Fantasy World: From Decay to Regal Beauty
The Fantasy World theme park sits alone and quietly in Lemery, Batangas Province, and is known as the supposed Disney World as well as one
Boling-Boling Festival: A Colorful Carnival of Creativity in Catanauan
Among the many festivals that take place in Quezon, one of the most popular is the Boling-Boling Festival, particularly in the town of Catanauan. The
Tanauan Church: Triumph of Faith in the Midst of Challenges
It was once a stone church, that was built during the Spanish colonial era in Tanauan, Batangas, and was known as Tanauan Church or St
Burdang Lumban Festival: Celebrating Lumban’s Legacy as the Embroidery Capital of the Philippines
Lumban, recognized as the “Embroidery Capital of the Philippines,” comes alive every third week of September with its vibrant Burdang Lumban Festival, a celebration of
The Vibrant Pahiyas Festival Street Dance: A Celebration of Culture and Faith
Every May 15, the charming town of Lucban, Quezon, bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors, music, and movement for the Pahiyas Festival, a grand celebration
Tayo na sa Antipolo Maytime Festival: A Vibrant Tribute to Culture, Tradition, and Pilgrimage
This festival, known as “Tayo na sa Antipolo Maytime Festival”, is one of the most popular celebrations in the Philippines due to the fact that
Sigpawan Festival: Lemery’s Vibrant Easter Celebration of Bounty and Culture
Each year, the Sigpawan Festival, which is held in Lemery, Batangas, takes place on Easter Sunday. The highlight of the festival is the Fluvial procession
Three Kings Festival: Celebrating Tradition and Community in Mabitac, Laguna
In Mabitac, Laguna, the celebration has been embraced wholeheartedly, particularly intertwining it with the town’s founding anniversary to create a grand town festival. It has
Taal Volcano Protected Landscape: A Wild Beauty Just a Breath Away from Manila
Let’s be real—when you think of volcanoes, you probably imagine something massive and far-flung, right? But here in the Philippines, just 50-ish kilometers from Metro
Pinto Art Museum: A Gateway to Filipino Creativity and Culture
Pinto Art Museum and exhibition gallery serve as a vibrant showcase for the incredible paintings and sculptures crafted by local artists. Nestled in the historical
Bañamos Festival: A Grand Celebration of Los Baños’ Science, Nature, and Culture
Los Baños, Laguna, comes alive with the vibrant Bañamos Festival, an annual celebration that not only marks the municipality’s founding anniversary but also pays tribute
Calaca Church: Nurturing Faith and Legacy of St. Raphael the Archangel in Batangas
It is with Raphael the Archangel that the 184-year-old Spanish Colonial era church in Batangas gets its name. The Calaca Church is more commonly known
San Narciso Beach: Unveiling Nature’s Wonders in Quezon’s Bondoc Peninsula
You and your family and friends can experience the beauty of San Narciso Beach in Quezon Province. This stunning beach offers plenty of activities and
Lucban Church: A Testament to Faith and Resilience
Right in the heart of Lucban, Quezon, you’ll find the San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Parish Church, more commonly known as Lucban Church. This centuries-old
Nasugbu, Batangas: A Coastal Haven of Serenity and Adventure
The Nasugbu area has an extensive collection of beaches and snorkeling spots which make it a popular summer destination. There are numerous swimming-related activities and
Pabasa ng Pasyon: A Heartfelt Holy Week Experience in General Luna, Quezon
If you’ve ever wondered what faith looks like when it’s woven into the daily life of a town, you might want to head to General
Turumba Festival: Celebrating Our Lady of Sorrows in Pakil, Laguna
The Turumba Festival in Pakil, Laguna, centered around the veneration of Our Lady of Sorrows of Turumba, continues to unite locals and attract visitors, showcasing
Pawikan Festival: Celebrating and Conserving Sea Turtles in Naic, Cavite
In its thirteenth year, the Pawikan Festival commenced its weekend celebration on the early morning of February 4th. The festivities unfolded with a vibrant parade
Buhayani Festival: Celebrating the Hero’s Legacy in Calamba
Every June 19, the vibrant town of Calamba in Laguna, Philippines, comes alive with the Buhayani Festival, a grand celebration honoring the life and heroism
Lamon Bay: A Hidden Gem for Eco-Tourism and Marine Adventures
Located along the northeastern coast of Luzon, Philippines, Lamon Bay is a stunning destination that boasts pristine waters, rich marine life, and a vibrant local
Taal Basilica: Asia’s Largest Catholic Church and Historical Marvel in Batangas
This Minor Basilica is canonically known as the Minor Basilica of Saint Martin of Tours and is located in the town of Taal, Batangas, within
Itik Festival: Celebrating Victoria Laguna’s Cultural and Agricultural Heritage
The Itik or Duck Festival of Victoria Laguna is an annual celebration coinciding with the town’s founding anniversary every November. It’s a vibrant event held
Candle Festival: Shines with Tradition and Devotion in Candelaria
This celebration of the “Candle Festival” takes place from the 31st of January to the 2nd of February each year and is held in order
Hambujan Festival: A Celebration of Agricultural Bounty and Spiritual Devotion
Located in the heart of Dolores, Quezon, the Hambujan Festival is a vibrant celebration that embodies the town’s rich heritage and deep connection with nature.
Kesong Puti Festival: Celebrating Santa Cruz, Laguna’s Culinary Heritage
Santa Cruz, a first-class urban municipality and the capital of Laguna province in the Philippines, is a place where tradition, culture, and culinary delights converge.
Antipolo Church: A Must-Visit Pilgrimage Destination and Cultural Gem
This festival, known as “Tayo na sa Antipolo Maytime Festival”, is one of the most popular celebrations in the Philippines due to the fact that
Tingloy Island: Beaches, Peaks, and Underwater Wonders
The Municipality of Tingloy Island got its name a little bit from a legend. Due to its location in Batangas, Philippines, it is almost named
Ana Kalang Festival: Celebrating Nagcarlan’s Harvest and Heritage
Perched at the foothills of the majestic Mt. Banahaw and Mt. Cristobal lies Nagcarlan, Laguna, home to the vibrant Ana Kalang Festival. This lively celebration,
Pinya Festival: A Celebration of Calauan’s Pineapple Heritage
Every 15th of May, the town of Calauan, Laguna comes alive with vibrant colors and jubilant celebrations during the annual Pinya Festival. This event, which
Gunao Lake: A Hidden Gem in Dolores, Quezon
Gunao Lake, located in the charming town of Dolores in Quezon Province, remains a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by adventurers seeking natural wonders.
Laguna Lake: The Philippines’ Largest Lake
Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the Philippines, is more than just a vast expanse of water. It’s a lifeline, a cultural icon, and
Hondagua: From Sunset Seawalls to Historical Charms
Hondagua is a picturesque coastal barangay in the municipality of Lopez, located within the province of Quezon, Philippines. Situated along the shores of Lamon Bay,
Balayan Bay: A Coastal Gem in Batangas Province
Among the many contributions of Balayan Bay that Batanguenos are proud of, the bay served as a fishing village and a summer retreat for locals
Quezon Zigzag Road: The Wild Ride Through Bitukang Manok
The Quezon Zigzag Road was built in 1969 during the Marcos administration, designed to link Quezon Province with the Bicol Region. Faced with the rugged
Alligator Lake: Laguna’s Quiet Crater Gem
Tucked within the serene landscape of Los Baños, Laguna, there’s a lake that doesn’t make much noise—but that’s precisely where its charm lies. Locals know
Lucban Pahiyas Festival: A Spectacularly Colorful Tradition in Quezon
Every May 15, the charming town of Lucban, Quezon bursts into a dazzling display of colors, artistry, and cultural pride as it celebrates the Pahiyas
Taal Lake: Unraveling the Mysterious Charm and Enduring Beauty
It is known as Taal Lake, formerly Bombón Lake, and is a freshwater lake in the province of Batangas. It fills the Taal Caldera, a
Lucban Longganisa: The Garlic-Packed Pride of Quezon
If there’s one local delicacy that defines the town of Lucban, Quezon, it’s the unmistakably bold and garlicky Lucban Longganisa. This native sausage isn’t just
Sirena ng Atimonan: The Mystical Mermaid of Quezon
Situated along the picturesque coastal highway of Atimonan, Quezon, the Sirena ng Atimonan is more than just a roadside landmark—it is a symbol of the
San Narciso Port: A Quiet Lifeline by the Sea
When you think about ports in Quezon Province, the bigger, busier ones often grab the spotlight. But if you shift your gaze a little south,
Avilon Zoo: A Wildlife Oasis in Rodriguez, Rizal
There are more than 3,000 specimens of exotic wildlife in the Avilon Zoo; representing more than 600 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, freshwater fish
