WARNING - GRAPHIC CONTENT: Real life crucifixions on Good Friday to mark Easter
THESE shocking photos show how a crowd of people were nailed to crosses in real-life crucifixions on Good Friday to re-enact the death of Jesus Christ.
***WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT FOLLOWS***
Thousands of people watched the annual event as almost 20 Christians and a filmmaker were nailed to crosses with five-inch stainless steel nails.
The Roman Catholic Church frown upon the gruesome practice as a form of religious devotion as they say it distorts the message of the Easter period.
I will do it as long as my body will allow me
Discussing the topic of real life crucifixion, the Vatican said: "Penitential practices leading to self-crucifixion with nails are not to be encouraged."
The ritual was first held in the city of San Fernando in the Philippines almost 60 years ago and has been held annually since then.
Danilo Ramos, a 43-year-old who has been crucified 23 times, said: "I will do it as long as my body will allow me.
"I hope God will see my sacrifice and take good care of my family."
Danish film director Lasse Spang Olsen, 48, stayed on the cross for more than 10 minutes.
As he was being treated for his wounds afterwards he said: "It was a great experience between me and God."
The Roman Catholic Church have denounced the ritual and said it is a corruption of the suffering Jesus Christ endured.
Archbishop Aniceto Paciano of San Fernando said: "Penance does not mean you hurt yourself, because your body is a temple that houses the spirit."
The event had a carnival-like atmosphere and draws Filipino tourists and those from abroad.
British casino worker Emily Ebswoth, 24, said she had never seen anything like it.
She said: "I don't like it. It's bloody and gory."
Meanwhile in the UK Britons flocked to churches across the country for Good Friday services.
In the capital St Paul's Cathedral held their service in the morning and also marked Good Friday with three hours of prayers at midday.