Reporter 1 (Allison)
"Welcome, everyone! Join us on a journey back in time to where history,
culture, and faith intertwine. Let's explore the birthplace of Christianity in
the Philippines, where the echoes of the first mass still resound. Get ready
for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of our nation's spiritual
heritage!"
Today we're going to focus on one of the most debated topics in readings in
Philippine History which is about the site of the first Catholic Mass. Some
say it happened in Limasawa, while others believe it was in Masao.
Reporter 1
But before we investigate the site of the first mass, let's first review what
happened during that historic event.
The first Mass in the Philippines was a historic event in history, combining
exploration, religion, and interaction between cultures. This presentation
looks into the events surrounding this significant moment, exploring its
impact on Philippine history.
Ferdinand Magellan's expedition, sailing under the Spanish flag, reached
the Philippines in 1521, discovering Homonhon and Limasawa Islands after
a challenging journey across the Pacific Ocean. On March 28, Magellan's
fleet made landfall on Homonhon Island.
Reporter 1
Upon reaching Homonhon, Magellan's crew encountered the Ati people.
Despite initial doubts, they engaged peacefully, exchanging gifts and
goodwill. The Ati welcomed them with hospitality.
Reporter 1
On Easter Sunday, March 31, 1521, Ferdinand Magellan celebrated the
first Catholic Mass in the Philippines, led by Father Pedro de Valderrama in
Limasawa Island, marking the start of Spanish colonization and the
introduction of Christianity. Alongside the first Mass, significant events like
the Blood Compact or “Sandugo” were performed between Magellan and
the indigenous chieftain, Rajah Humabon of Cebu, symbolizing friendship
and alliance and the planting of a wooden cross at the tip of the mountain
facing the shore further symbolized the embrace of Catholicism.
Reporter 1
The first Mass in the Philippines represents the merging of cultures and the
start of Spanish colonization. It opened the way for the spread of
Christianity and changed the social and cultural context of the Philippines.
Reporter 2
When discussing the site of the first mass in the Philippines, two places are
often mentioned: the claim of Limasawa and the claim of Masao in Butuan.
Now, we will explore the different strong points that will support the claim
for each site.
Let us Start with the First Claim
Reporter 2
1. Antonio Pigafetta's Account
Antonio Pigafetta's detailed record of the voyage serves as primary
evidence and one of the most trusted evidence of the claim.
Pigafetta, a survivor of Ferdinand Magellan's expedition, documented
the voyage's arrival at Limasawa Island on March 28, 1521, noting
that they sailed southbound passing through the Leyte Coast.
Limasawa was approximately 38.9 kilometers from Homonhon Island
where they came from. This distance is significant because it
provides a precise measure of the journey taken by Magellan's
expedition and confirms their arrival at Limasawa Island.
2. Duration of Stay
Magellan together with the crew remained in Limasawa from March
28 until April 4, 1521, allowing for an extended stay and the
opportunity for religious ceremonies such as the celebration of Mass
before going to Cebu.
3. Francisco Albo’s Account
Francisco Albo, a crew member of Ferdinand Magellan, does not
mention the first mass in his account, but only the planting of the
cross on the southern tip of the mountain. He noted seeing three
islands to the west and southwest from that spot. He also mentioned
Mazava which fits the location of the Island of Limasawa at the
Southern tip of Leyte. Although Albo didn't mention the first mass at
Limasawa nor Masao, historians believe his account aligns with
Limasawa Island's location which was at the southern tip of Leyte,
facing three nearby islands.
Reporter 3
On the contrary Before the 19th century, the prevailing belief was that
the first mass was held in Butuan.
Here are some pieces of evidence supporting the argument that the
first Mass might have been held in Butuan instead of Limasawa:
Reporter 3
1. Lack of detailed accounts
Jesuit priest Pedro Chirino Gomez noted that Antonio Pigafetta's
journal lacks detailed accounts of Masses during certain parts of
the journey, such as the five-month stay at San Julian port, where
no Masses were mentioned despite the prolonged period due to
harsh weather conditions. Chirino suggests that the historical
records may not fully capture all religious activities performed
during the expedition.
2. Timing of Departure
The debate over whether Magellan's expedition landed in Butuan
before Limasawa focuses on the timing described in Antonio
Pigafetta's account. Pigafetta mentions the fleet departing from the
island of Mazaua (often believed to be Limasawa) on Easter
Sunday. If Palm Sunday occurred shortly before this departure, it
suggests that Mass could have been celebrated in Butuan before
reaching Mazaua.
3. Murillo Velarde Map (1734)
The Murillo Velarde map is a significant historical document that
depicts the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. It
indicates that Magellan's crew went to Butuan before proceeding
to Limasawa (referred to as "Le masawa" in the map) and then to
Cebu. This map provides cartographic evidence that Butuan was
visited by Magellan's expedition.
4. Placement of a Marker
In 1872, believers in Butuan's claim as the site of the first Catholic
Mass placed a marker in Magallanes Town near Butuan City,
indicating where they believed the historic event occurred. This
marker reflects their strong belief in Butuan's significance in the
Philippine history of Catholicism.
5. Archaeological Findings
In 1976, archaeological evidence was discovered in Butuan that
supporters believe supports their claim. This evidence includes
boats believed to have been used as a means of transportation for
worship services, indicating religious activities in the area.
Reporter 3
Given these very strong points from both claims, the Limasawa claims and
Masao claims, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines
decided and validated Limasawa as the site of the first mass in 2021 during
the Queen Centennial celebration of Catholicism in the country. Modern
navigational instruments were used to interpret the writings and accounts of
Antonio Pigafetta and Francisco Alvo, supporting Limasawa's claim. The
Butuan claim was dismissed, providing finality to the declaration. However,
some historians and the Church still advocate for Masao.
Reporter 2
History remains a continuous process of research, with new evidence
potentially altering previous conclusions. Questions regarding the timing of
the first mass, possibly during Holy Week, remain unanswered, highlighting
the ongoing investigation into Philippine history. Overall, history is a
continuous study, rich with discoveries waiting to be uncovered through
time and effort.
Reporter 1
The legacy of the first Mass in the Philippines has created debate and
controversy. While many Catholics regard it as a historical event, it also
serves as a reminder of the darker side of colonialism and forced
conversion. The introduction of Christianity caused significant shifts in
Filipino society, impacting language, customs, and beliefs.
The first Mass in the Philippines is an important turning point in our history,
opening a period of cultural exchange, religious development, and colonial
expansion. Despite its intricacies, it is deeply rooted in our national
character, defining who we are as a people. It serves as a reminder of our
journey and the stories that remain to be discovered, anchoring us to our
history as we navigate the future.
Reporter 1
Legacy and Controversies:
The legacy of the first Mass in the Philippines is a topic of debate and
controversy. While it is celebrated as a historic event by many Catholics, it
also serves as a reminder of the darker aspects of colonialism and forced
conversion. The arrival of Christianity brought about profound changes in
Filipino society, influencing language, customs, and beliefs.
Conclusion:
The first Mass in the Philippines stands as a seminal moment in the
country's history, marking the beginning of a new era characterized by
cultural exchange, religious transformation, and colonial expansion. While
its legacy is complex and multifaceted, it remains an indelible part of the
Filipino narrative, shaping the identity of the nation and its people.
