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Site of the First Mass

  • The first documented Catholic Mass in the Philippines was held on March 31, 1521, Easter Sunday.

  • Conducted by Father Pedro de Valderrama of Ferdinand Magellan's expedition.

  • Located on the shores referred to as "Mazaua" in Antonio Pigafetta's journals.

Important Attendees

  • Rajahs Present:

    • Rajah Kolambu

    • Rajah Siagu

  • Magellan asked for a cross to be installed at the highest peak for defense.

Site Confirmation

  • The National Historical Commission declared Limawasa as the site of the first mass in the Philippines.

Evidence Supporting Limawasa Claim

  • Pigafetta's testimony regarding the route and his map.

  • Confirmation from Francisco Albo's logbook about the planting of the cross.

  • Seven days spent at Mazaua noted.

Pigafetta's Background

  • Born in 1491 in Vicenza, Republic of Venice, Italy.

  • Died at age 39-40 around 153.

  • Italian scholar who studied astronomy, geography, and cartography.

Journey with Magellan

  • Accompanied Magellan on his journey.

  • One of 18 men who returned to Spain in 1522.

Details of the Mass

  • Two native chieftains attended: Rajah of Mazaua and Rajah of Butuan.

  • A wooden cross was planted after the mass.

Claims from Other Accounts

  • Historical claims state that the first mass was held in Mazaua, confirmed by several historians.

  • Jaime de Veyra and Pablo Pastells argued against the Butuan claim, suggesting Mazaua as the true site.

Geography Details

  • Limasawa is located at a latitude of 9 two-thirds degrees North, fitting the description of Mazaua.

  • Other claims posit Butuan as the mass location based on geographical features and historical tradition.

Butuan Claim Overview

  • Initial beliefs favored Butuan due to Catholic traditions.

  • Maps from 1734 and 1872 document claims of the first mass occurring there.

  • Excavated balanghay boats suggest local transportation for worship.

Conclusion of Claims

  • Both claims recognize that Magellan's expedition reached both Limasawa and Butuan.

  • Limasawa Claim is supported by primary sources from Pigafetta and Albo, while Butuan Claim is viewed as secondary and less reliable.

  • The clarity of evidence favors the Limasawa Claim, supported by historical accounts and navigation findings.