Manila, April 17 -- Pilgrimage destinations across Negros Occidental are preparing to welcome thousands of devotees and visitors seeking rest and reflection during the annual Lenten observance.

In an interview Thursday, Isabela town executive assistant for tourism, culture, and arts Francis Ryan Pabiania said the local government expects between 7,000 and 10,000 visitors from Thursday to Friday, "with arrivals peaking on Friday night."

The prominent 45-foot steel cross atop Glory Hill in Sitio Mantuhod, Barangay Mansablay, is reached via a two-hour ascent along cemented stairways and steep pathways marked by the 14 Stations of the Cross.

Pabiania added that they also expect 2,000 to 5,000 visitors on Saturday, noting: "We have prepared...