In pictures: Philippines crucifixions

Millions of people in the mainly Roman Catholic country of the Philippines celebrate Easter every year, with some penitents following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ even up to the point of being nailed to a cross.

Thousands of locals as well as curious tourists turned out to see three men being crucified at Cutud, in Pampanga province

Amparo Santos (r) was the only woman taking part - for her 15th crucifixion - while cult leader Winnie de Vera hoped for peace

Real nails are used for the crucifixions though the devotees generally stay on the cross for minutes, not days

Hooded flagellants mimic the crucifixion before whipping themselves with chains to absolve them of their sins

A flagellant aims to share the pain of Jesus as he is beaten by a man with glass fragments embedded in a piece of wood

Crucifixions are an annual event in the Philippines, despite opposition from Church leaders who want less violent ceremonies