Flagellation a catholic tradition in the Philippines

Flagellation is being done during holy week... some punish themselselves with whips, other carry cross on their shoulder...devotees believe that with such sacrifice , it cleanses.away their sins, cures illnesses and grant wishes..

When I was a child, I.am very scared with flagellants.. never did we imagine that 1 of our siblings will perform such religious penance. It broke our heart the first time we saw him.. he kept what his from our family because he knows he wouldn't be allowed. But how can we argue in what he believes in.. we we're told he has to do it for 9 consecutive years....we only hope for the best.....for we know God will help him and be with him in all his endeavors...