Site of The First Mass in The Philippines
Site of The First Mass in The Philippines
Site of The First Mass in The Philippines
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The site of the first Mass in the Philippines has been a subject of historical debate, with some
asserting that it took place in Limasawa. According to the account of Antonio Pigafetta, a
chronicler who accompanied Ferdinand Magellan during his voyage, the first Catholic Mass
occurred on March 31, 1521, in Limasawa, a small island in the southern part of Leyte.
Pigafetta's detailed journal documented the events of the expedition, providing crucial insight
into the early encounters between the Spaniards and the indigenous people of the Philippines.
His meticulous record remains a significant primary source, shedding light on the initial Catholic
rituals conducted in the archipelago.
The claim of Limasawa as the site of the first Mass is further supported by the National
Historical Commission of the Philippines. According to the Commission, extensive research and
historical documentation have led to the recognition of Limasawa as the actual location of the
inaugural Catholic Mass in the country. This acknowledgment underscores the authoritative
stance of a reputable institution within the Philippines, reinforcing the historical significance of
the Limasawa event. Furthermore, Dr. Antonio Sanchez de Mora, an esteemed expert in
Spanish medieval history, has contributed to the discourse by affirming the credibility of
Pigafetta's account. Dr. Sanchez de Mora's analysis aligns with the assertion that the first Mass
indeed took place in Limasawa, validating the historical narrative provided by Pigafetta's
documentation. His expertise adds scholarly weight to the existing body of evidence supporting
the claim of Limasawa as the site of the pivotal first Mass in the Philippines.
In light of the comprehensive analysis provided by the National Historical Commission of the
Philippines and the endorsement of Dr. Antonio Sanchez de Mora, the claim that the first Mass
in the Philippines occurred in Limasawa stands on solid historical grounds. This pivotal event
serves as a cornerstone in the country's colonial history, shaping the religious and cultural
landscape of the Filipino people for generations to come.
References:
Gabieta, A. V. S. M. J. (2020, August 21). Limasawa, not Butuan, affirmed as site of first Mass
in PH | Inquirer News. INQUIRER.net. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1325039/limasawa-
not-butuan-affirmed-as-site-of-first-mass-in-ph
Office, D. I. (2021, April 19). Limasawa vs. Butuan: the first Easter Mass. University of the
Philippines Diliman. https://upd.edu.ph/limasawa-vs-butuan-the-first-easter-mass/