Manila: As the Lenten week unfolds, leaders across Northern Mindanao have joined the Christian community in calls for peace, reflection, and spiritual clarity. In a statement issued on Thursday, Iligan City Mayor Frederick Siao said Holy Week provides a significant opportunity for each individual to reflect on their spiritual journey.

According to Philippines News Agency, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon Mayor Jay Warren Pabillaran echoed this sentiment, stating that the Christian community, particularly the Catholic majority in the city and the nation, should consistently strive to emulate the life of service and sacrifice exemplified by Jesus Christ. Valencia City, Bukidnon Mayor Azucena Huervas highlighted the Holy Week as a time for profound reflection and prayer, encouraging a hope-filled perspective towards life’s challenges.

Camiguin Governor Xavier Jesus Romualdo also extended his wishes for a peaceful observance of Lent, while drawing attention to the province’s various pilgrimage sites, including the iconic Walkway to the Old Volcano with its poignant Stations of the Cross. In Cagayan de Oro City, Mayor Rolando Uy issued a crucial health advisory in response to the increasing heat index, alongside guidelines for pilgrims aimed at preventing incidents of violence and disorder during religious observances.

On Thursday, local police and the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Department reported over 5,000 visitors at pilgrimage sites coming within the city and neighboring towns. Meanwhile, Opol, Misamis Oriental, Mayor Jay Bago released hotline numbers for the municipal police station and its various police precincts to ensure public safety and accessibility of assistance. The city government of El Salvador, Misamis Oriental, also issued a comprehensive traffic advisory, outlined in Executive Order No. 904-2025, for those planning to visit the Divine Mercy Shrine, a prominent destination in the region during the Lenten season.