Anting-Anting Tradition in the Philippines During Holy Week
ANTING-ANTING – Here are some popular beliefs and traditions about amulets during Holy Week in the Philippines.
In the Philippines, Holy Week is not just about religious reflection, it’s also a time when many people turn to old traditions, including the belief in anting-anting, or amulets. These objects are believed to hold special powers, especially when made, found, or recharged on Good Friday.
In various provinces, traditional healers and antingeros (Amulet users) search caves and remote places for these items during Holy Week. They believe that the spiritual energy of the amulets is strongest during this sacred time.
Each anting-anting is believed to serve a specific purpose. Some are said to help with school exams, others offer protection from harm, attract love, ensure success in business, or give strength in battle.
Many faith healers gather during Holy Week to showcase their healing abilities using their anting-anting.
The most powerful time to “recharge” an anting-anting is believed to be the night of Good Friday. Some believers travel to mountains, forests, waterfalls, churches and even places considered sacred to perform rituals.
The process often involves chanting Latin prayers while holding the amulet. Copies of these chants are even sold in certain places.
In fact, Mt. Banahaw is one of the most popular spots for this ritual. Many climb the mountain believing its spiritual energy boosts the power of their amulets.
Different regions have their own versions of anting-anting. Ilocanos have the Babato or Ginginamul, the Ifugaos treasure their Lingling-o, and in the mystical island of Siquijor, locals use the Habak.
One of the most popular places to find and buy anting-anting is Quiapo, in Manila, where amulets are sold alongside religious items, blending ancient tradition with modern-day faith.
What can you say about this tradition? Just leave our comments down below the comment section.