First Mass in the Philippines

Francisco Albo

Francisco Albo

a pilot in one of Magellan's ships, Trinidad. He was one of the 18 survivors who returned with Sebastian Elcano on the ship Victoria, after they circumnavigated the world.

Albo's account

in his account, the location of Mazava fits the location of the island of Limasawa, at the southern tip of Leyte.

First Mass

Albo did not mention this event, but only the planting of the cross upon the mountain top from which could be seen three islands to the west southwest, which also fit the southern end of Limasawa.

Mazaua

the location of the first mass

Antonio Pigafetta

second source, he stated that the second mass was located in Mazaua

Antonio Pigafetta

He gave more detailed information on what they did during their week - long stay at Mazaua.

March 31, 1521

The birth of Roman Catholicism in the country was signified by the celebration of the first Catholic mass in the Philippines on this date.

Fr. Pedro de Valderama

he held the first mass

Limasawa's Island shape

round like a ray and elongated like a sliced worm.

Mindanao

after the death of Magellan, they went in this place

April 8, 1521

In Butuan, they believed that the first mass happened on this date.

nine Balanghai artifacts

discovered in Butuan

14.6 Leagues

Distance from Homonhon-Limasawa

24.54 leagues

distance from Homonhon-Masao, Butuan

Zaide

He determined that the first mass took place in Masao, Butuan.

Masao, Butuan

Gold and gold mines are plentiful in this place as described by Pigafetta