The Devotion of Mud People

• Photographer
  Mr. Jophel Botero Ybiosa (Philippines)
• Agency / Studio
  Princess Cruise Lines
• Prize
  Bronze in Events / Other

Mud People paid homage during the Feast Day of Saint John the Baptist in Aliaga, Nueva Ecija, Philippines on June 24, 2018. Devotees soaked themselves in mud, covered their bodies with dried banana leaves and attended a Holy Mass. According to a local legend, the devotion of Mud People traces its history from World War II. Japanese soldiers were about to execute the villagers but a sudden heavy downpour occurred. Then Japanese soldiers decided to set the villagers free. Afterwards, survivors rolled in the mud in exultation and believed that a miracle happened from Saint John the Baptist.