BIBICLAT, Philippines (AP) - Hundreds of Filipino villagers donning capes of banana leaves have covered themselves in mud in a ritual to thank their patron saint, John the Baptist, who they believe saved some residents from killings by Japanese invaders in World War II.
A parish priest said Friday that some of the mud-splattered participants want to thank God for blessings while others pray for help to solve personal problems during the festival in northern Bibiclat village.
Villagers say Japanese troops had planned to kill male villagers in a church courtyard but residents prayed to Saint John and a sudden downpour saved the men.
The villagers rolled in the mud in jubilation and have carried on the tradition ever since.