The scent of frankincense and the quiet hum of the Pabasa usually define our Holy Week. This year, however, those traditional reflections feel heavier. We pause to consider the ongoing war in the Middle East and its unexpected impact on us.

The country traditionally pauses collectively during this time. Traffic softens, businesses slow, and families journey quietly.  Some return to their provinces, others visit churches for Visita Iglesia, and many simply choose stillness at home.

Why the Middle East Conflict Hits Close to Home in the Philippines

Today, the world’s troubles feel unusually close. The war in the Middle East is more than a distant headline; its shockwaves touch our daily lives.

We feel this impact in several ways:

  • News articles show fuel prices rising steadily.
  • Conversations are filled with concern over inflation, food costs, and uncertainty.
  • For millions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the Middle East, the war is immediate, tangible, and frightening.

It feels strange that this solemn week—rooted in reflection, sacrifice, and hope—now unfolds against a backdrop of conflict, displacement, and fear. Last year, Holy Week was simply “traditional”: a quiet, scheduled break for prayer and family. This year, we observe our traditions alongside soaring fuel costs and incredible news updates. Indeed, this conflict forces us to seek the true, unioversal meaning of sacrifice.

The Global Connection: Rising Above Indifference

We cannot ignore our deep connection to the rest of the world. A conflict thousands of kilometers away raises gasoline prices in Manila. Drone attacks affect jeepney drivers struggling to earn a living. The closure of a body of water forces local palengke business owners to pay more for fish delivery. This conflict serves as a harsh reminder: we are not as insulated as we once thought.

This global awareness makes Holy Week even more meaningful. At its core, the week is about suffering and redemption. The economic strain we feel is a distant echo of the far greater suffering in the world, reminding us that we are all interconnected beneath the cross.  

Turning Reflection Into Response: Sharpening Our Empathy

Perhaps our reflection this year should go beyond typical rituals. We can fast not just from food, but from indifference. We must recognize that while we observe this week in relative peace, many others do not. Consider fasting from noisy social media debate, and instead, choosing to read the stories of displacement.

The Philippines shows resilience, and we know we will get through this. But resilience should not equal numbness. Moments like this must sharpen our empathy, not dull it. Holy Week invites us to slow down and look inward, but we must also look outward with clear eyes.

As we perform familiar traditions—Visita Iglesia, the Pabasa, or simply resting—let’s carry a deeper awareness. We need awareness not just of our own lives, but of the wider world. This week, let us pause to respond in small ways: through prayer, awareness, kindness, and by choosing to care more. —perhaps by supporting a local charity addressing rising food costs, or simply by slowing down to truly listen to a neighbor’s concern. Let us all pray harder for peace. We need that prayer now more than ever.

 

Email: nicgabjr@gmail.com  X: @nicgabunada