CAMIGUIN (PIA) -- With a notable increase in the number of followers and tourists arriving in Camiguin for this year's Holy Week celebrations, local officials have stepped up security protocols to guarantee pilgrims' safety during the yearly Panaad pilgrimage.

Based on the official data released by the provincial government, 22,344 individuals made their way to Camiguin during the Panaad, marking a notable 16.6 percent increase compared to the previous year's turnout. 

“From the Walkway to the Old Volcano, where the Stations of the Cross stand as a testament to faith, to the solemn processions that wound their way through the streets of our towns, every corner of our province bore witness to the profound devotion of Camiguingnons and visitors alike,” Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo said.



Medical personnel, strategically stationed across key locations such as the Mambajao Health Office, Old Municipal Hall, Katibawasan Falls, and Ardent Hot Spring Resort, provided essential first aid and health services to ensure the smooth conduct of Panaad 2024.

Additionally, the Mambajao Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Office expressed gratitude to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)-Camiguin for providing reliable internet connectivity through CCTV cameras installed at various sites, enhancing security measures throughout the event.

In collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the provincial government deployed the Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) to ensure a safe and well-prepared Panaad. Equipped with emergency assistance supplies, CCTV surveillance, weather monitoring systems, and uninterrupted power and internet connectivity, the MoCCoV serves as a vital resource for pilgrims and organizers alike.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Magnolia A. Naman emphasized the importance of preparation and precautionary measures to prevent incidents during the Panaad pilgrimage. With intensified medical stations strategically positioned along the pilgrimage route, the provincial government aims to provide comprehensive emergency response and support.

“Mao na ang among preparasyon gayud mas intense. We have a station sa ground. We have station sa 7th and another medical station sa 14th. Ang among gi-anticipate kompleto gayud mi. Kanang ang emergency ma-provide gayud namo didto pa sa taas. So gi-equip namo tanan didto ang atong mga gamit. Naa na'y bed didto, naa na'y oxygen, maka-insert ta'g IV didto pa sa taas,” Naman said.

(That's why our preparation is more intense. We have a station on the ground. We have a station on the 7th and another medical station on the 14th. What we anticipate is complete. We are prepared to handle that emergency up there. So we will all equip our equipment there. There's a bed there, there's oxygen, and you can insert an IV up there.)

For devotees like Hanzel Ferolino, the Panaad represents a time of spiritual renewal and reflection. "Sagol-sagol ang gibati kakapoy, ka init, kagutom, kasakit ug labaw sa tanan ang kalipay. Tulo ka oras nga tulog abante na pud. One step at a time. Inubanan sa pag ampo ug pagsalig sa Ginoo matuman ra gayud ang panaad," he shared, highlighting the significance of the pilgrimage.

(The feeling is a mixture of fatigue, heat, hunger, pain, and, above all, happiness. We just had three hours of sleep, then we walked again. One step at a time. Combined with prayer and trust in the Lord, we have completed the vow.)

He added that Camiguin Panaad 2024 was a profound experience–full of reflection and spiritual connection with Jesus Christ. 

“As usual, commendable gyud ang people of Camiguin. Very hospitable and generous gyud kaayo labi na every barangay offers a variety of snacks and meals. Kapoy gyud ang panaad to be honest but thanks to the generous people, we made it through,” Ferolino said. 

(As usual, the people of Camiguin are really commendable. They are very hospitable and generous—every barangay offers a variety of snacks and meals. The pilgrimage is really tiring, to be honest, but thanks to the generous people, we made it through.)

The devotee also highlighted how the local government handled logistics noting that the latter ensured safety and organization throughout the journey.

With safety as a top priority, Romualdo said Camiguin remains committed to ensuring a meaningful and secure Panaad experience for all pilgrims, as well as for its other activities in the province. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)