Hundreds trek up Mt. Tapochau

Devotees bear on their shoulders the weight of the 30-foot Ironwood cross up Mt. Tapochau to carry out the island’s Good Friday tradition in observance of Holy Week. Hundreds of others hiked the mountain as a sacrifice and to bear witness to the event. (Frauleine Villanueva-Dizon)

A much easier trek to the top of Mt. Tapuchao greeted hundreds who made their way to Saipan’s highest peak in the annual Good Friday tradition. Weather also cooperated this time unlike last year last year when rain made the ground muddy and wet making the climb difficult.

Personnel from the Saipan Mayor’s Office and the Department of Public Works also paved the road a few days before the annual trek of the island’s Christian pilgrims, making it easier for them to walk the trail.

Several community-based organizations like the United Filipino Organization and the Triskelion Grand Fraternity-TAU GAMMA PHI/SIGMA-Northern Mariana Islands Council have already set up tents Thursday night to prepare giving away refreshments for those who made the early trek.

Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang and his staff were also on hand early Friday morning to give away water to Christian devotees.

The Department of Public Safety and the Emergency Management Services set up their tents at the foot of the mountain, while the American Red Cross-CNMI Chapter was stationed a few meters from the top.

Individuals, pairs, and groups of people—clutching flashlights and walking sticks—began making their way from the base of Mt. Tapochau unmindful of the 70-°F weather at the top of Saipan’s highest peak. Close to 500—men and women of all ages, with some even bringing their children or pets—have already made their way to the top as of 6am.

Around 6:30am, a group of close to 50 male devotees carrying the 30-foot Ironwood cross was already making their way to the top. San Vicente parishioners were reciting the rosary and singing hymns commemorating Christ’s passion and death during the procession.

Rev. Fr. Jason Granado, as soon as the cross was laid down near the hill were it will be installed, led the blessing and brief prayer services.

Volunteers began preparing to raise the cross at around 7:15am and a little over 7:30am the cross was planted on top of the mountain after the well-coordinated move by close to 60 men.

While others walked, some chose to run or ride their bike also making it as a form of exercise aside from observing Good Friday. A male septuagenarian, who was celebrating his birthday, was also seen walking without using his cane and whispering words of encouragement to himself.

A Christian missionary also made the climb with his friend for the first time despite being on Saipan for many years.