Only in the Philippines

The Department of Health actually allowed self-flagellation during the Holy Week. The Roman Catholic Church however, discouraged the practice.

DOH in fact issued guidelines for this event.

Our Department of Health has actually issued guidelines for those intending to self-flagellate or have themselves crucified this Holy Week: (1) Have a check-up, (2) drink lots of water to prevent dehydration, (3) use sunblock to protect your skin, (4) avoid direct sunlight from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., (5) have implements sterilized to avoid infection, (6) take anti-tetanus shots. quoted from Michael Tan of Inquirer.net

Only in the Philippines, of course.