Antipolo: The Diocese of Antipolo is inviting the Catholic faithful to join the 2025 Alay Lakad this week, as it attempts a Guinness World Record for the "largest gathering for a walking spiritual pilgrimage in 12 hours".
According to Philippines News Agency, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Santos has asked Filipinos to participate in the 17-kilometer walk from Metro Manila to the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, also known as Antipolo Cathedral, in Rizal province. The pilgrimage is scheduled from 6 p.m. on April 17 (Maundy Thursday) to 6 a.m. on April 18 (Good Friday).
Bishop Santos emphasized that achieving this record would not only highlight the spiritual importance of the pilgrimage but also bring global recognition to the cultural and religious traditions of the Philippines. In 2024, approximately 7.4 million pilgrims took part in the Alay Lakad, where participants offered prayers and coins at the altar of the Antipolo Cathedral as a gesture of solidarity and support for the church's mission to care for others.
The pilgrimage will begin with participants starting from their respective locations and converging along Ortigas Avenue Extension. Upon reaching the Diocese of Antipolo in Cainta, there will be Philippine National Police (PNP) posts and stations for prayers and rest. Volunteers will also be present to assist and guide the pilgrims along the way to the cathedral.
Last year, the coins collected at the altar exceeded PHP100,000, which the diocese used to fund the construction of the Chapel of Our Lady of Antipolo Tanay Rizal. This chapel will serve as a center for deepening the faith and sacraments of the church, particularly the sacrament of communion.
Bishop Santos expressed optimism for increased participation in this year's Alay Lakad, noting that it is the first time they are applying for the Guinness World Record. Last year, according to PNP Rizal, 7.4 million people participated, and the diocese expects even more participants this year.
Simultaneously, preparations at the international shrine are underway for the upcoming pilgrimage season, which will commence in May and continue until July.
