Today, Feb. 18, Catholics and many Christians in the Philippines observe Ash Wednesday as the solemn doorway into the sacred season of Lent. As ashes are gently traced on our foreheads in the shape of the cross, we hear the humbling reminder: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” 

Aries Adina as Jesus Christ in 'Senakulo: A Healing Concert'

It is not meant to frighten us, but to awaken us. Lent is a 40-day spiritual journey mirroring Christ’s 40 days in the desert. It is a time of prayer, fasting, repentance, and charity — a sacred pause before the glory of Easter Sunday. For Catholics, Lent is not merely about giving up chocolate or social media. It is about giving up sin. Priests would joke in Church that the Catholics start becoming active and go to church again only because it is Lent. At least we all start getting better, even if it is just for one season. 

This Lent, action star-turned-governor Daniel Fernando collaborates with the Oasis of Love Manila Catholic Community to stage the “Senakulo: A Healing Concert”. This will be held at the Malolos Gymnasium on March 28, 2026, at 5 pm. A senakulo is a stage play featuring the passion and death of our Lord Jesus Christ. Oasis of Love Manila staged a successful Senakulo last year in Manila, and the governor, a member of the organization, has decided to bring the Senakulo to Bulacan. 

For those unfamiliar with the tradition, a senakulo is a dramatic reenactment of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Rooted in Filipino Catholic heritage, it combines theater, music, and community participation to bring the Gospel story vividly to life. 

During Holy Week, towns gather to witness actors portray Christ’s suffering, Mary's sorrow, and the ultimate triumph of the Resurrection. It is evangelization through art — faith made visible on stage.

But this particular senakulo is combined with a healing concert — a spiritual offering meant not only to dramatize the Passion but also to provide a space for repentance, renewal, and, most of all, healing. It is both performance and prayer. 

Author Giselle Sanchez, Gov. Daniel Fernando, and Oasis Elder Vince Ribaya

Gov. Fernando has often spoken publicly about the importance of faith in his life. Known for his prayerfulness and devotion, he has shared that moments of vulnerability have deepened his reliance on God. 

“Recently, I was confined in the hospital due to overworking for the people of Bulacan. It was really a health scare for me. Father Joey Faller, another member of Oasis of Love Manila, came to pray for me and reminded me of the power of Jesus Christ and the intercession of Mama Mary. I found myself praying to the crucifix above the hospital bed and seeking the intercession of Mother Mary. Suddenly, I was not afraid to have my operation. It was like a discernment from the Holy Spirit that I will live a longer life so I can serve the people of Bulacan," the actor turned public servant tells Gossip Girl. 

Such experiences, as many Filipinos can attest, transform not only one’s outlook but one’s purpose. Perhaps that is why this Lenten offering to the people of Bulacan feels personal. Rather than gifting material tokens, the governor is giving something spiritual—an encounter with Christ’s sacrifice. 

In a province rich in tradition and faith, the “Senakulo: A Healing Concert”  becomes more than an event. It becomes a communal reminder that suffering has meaning, repentance has power, and with power comes healing and miracles. As we begin Lent with ashes on our foreheads, may we remember that beyond politics, beyond performance, and beyond personal ambition lies a deeper calling — to conversion, compassion, and community. And in that sacred journey, healing truly begins.