Unang Hirit Shines A Light on Faith and Filipino Traditions in Holy Week Special ‘Mga Kuwento ng Pag-Asa’

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This Holy Week, the country’s longest-running morning show Unang Hirit (UH) delivers a powerful and inspiring multi-part feature titled “Mga Kuwento ng Pag-asa,” bringing stories of faith, tradition, and hope from all over the Philippines.

The feature began in Sibonga, Cebu, where Unang Hirit host Susan Enriquez traveled to witness firsthand the deep devotion of locals to Our Lady of Lindogon, a miraculous image believed to have cried tears of blood. Devotees shared emotional testimonies of healing and transformation, offering powerful glimpses into how faith continues to uplift and strengthen communities.

“Iyong mga Kapuso nating nagpupunta dito, mga deboto ni Mama Mary, hindi nila alintana iyong mahaba at matagal na pila. Ang importante, makarating sila at makalapit sila doon sa imahen para magpasamalat, manalangin, magdulog ng kanilang mga karaingan at problema sa buhay,” shares Susan.

In Misamis Oriental, Unang Hirit highlighted the unique tradition of “Patunob,” a cultural and religious celebration honoring Our Lady of Lourdes.

In Luzon, the morning show featured the globally recognized Maleldo tradition in Cutud, Pampanga, where devotees reenact the Passion of Christ, including the intense and deeply spiritual crucifixion ritual.

Unang Hirit also featured the viral priest Rev. Father Mat De Guzman, who became popular because of his fun way of saying “Habang buhay may pagasa.” This Holy Week, Father Mat delivers a meaningful and inspiring message to all devout Catholics, “Ngayong Semana Santa, ugaliing mag-dasal. Kailangan natin ‘yung panalangin sa mga oras na ito sapagkat ‘yon ang pinaka-essence noong ating selebrasyon. Kaya ngayong Semana Santa, ugaliing magbigay. Bukod sa pagdarasal, mauuwi ‘yun sa pagbibigay kasi dapat maging fruitful ‘yung ating pinagdasalan. At bandang huli, ugaliin nating mga Katoliko na magmahal. Sapagkat itong Semana Santa, patuloy na ipinauunawa sa atin na ang Diyos ang unang nagmahal sa atin.”

To complement these moving stories, Unang Hirit also rolled out its annual “Bantay-Biyahe” initiative, offering assistance to Holy Week travelers. The UH team distributed travel essentials to passengers in key transport terminals, and spread surprise joy through cash prizes for lucky commuters.

Through heartfelt storytelling and meaningful public service, Unang Hirit’s Holy Week special captured the essence of Filipino spirituality—resilient, hopeful, and full of heart.

Catch Unang Hirit weekdays at 5:30 a.m. on GMA. Global Pinoys can watch it via GMA Pinoy TV.