GLORY HILL. The 45-foot steel cross on Glory Hill in Barangay Mansablay, Isabela town in Negros Occidental. (Photo by Nanette L. Guadalquiver)
BACOLOD CITY -- Thousands are expected to trek up the Glory Hill in Isabela, Negros Occidental anew on Good Friday.
This faith-based destination in Sitio Mantuhod, Barangay Mansablay can be reached after a two-hour climb, and pilgrims are rewarded with the glorious sight of a 45-foot steel cross upon reaching the hilltop.
During the trek, climbers pass by the 14 Stations of the Cross along cemented stairways and steep pathways.
Mayor Joselito Malabor said in a statement on Wednesday the way up the hill has been widened to accommodate more pilgrims through the assistance of businessman Frankie Uy.
Visitor count can reach up 10,000, based on the figures two years ago.
The “prayer place” has been a popular pilgrim site in Negros Occidental for some time, and in recent years when the municipal government has set up a power generator in the area, visitors have opted to stay the night usually on Good Friday.
Danny Verdeprado, a resident of Mansablay who serves as guide to trekkers, said vendors, including his family members, are also allowed to sell food items to pilgrims.
Makeshift stalls are also being set up and the camping grounds readied for the visitors. The gigantic cross at the Glory Hill was installed on May 3, 1954 -- the date is inscribed at the bottom of the concrete foundation.
It was designed by American engineer John Dumas, who was then working at the Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Company under the Columban Fathers, taking inspiration from his wife who prays the rosary.
The construction of the 14 Stations of the Cross started in early 1990s through the initiative of Councilor Rudy Parcon, then families in Mansablay also donated lots for each of the cross. (PNA)
