First Mass

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 on Limasawa Island. The Mass was
led by Father Pedro de Valderrama, marking the introduction of Christianity
to the islands. Rajah Kolambu of Limasawa and Rajah Siagu of Butuan
attended the Mass, symbolizing the beginning of interactions between the
indigenous leaders and the Spanish expedition. Additionally, a wooden
cross was planted at the tip of the mountain facing the shore, signifying the
embrace of Catholicism in the region.
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
THE LIMASAWA CLAIM
1. THE EVIDENCE OF ALBO’S LOG BOOK
The Evidence of Albo’s Log Book
 Francisco Albo joined the Magellan expedition as a pilot
("contra• Maestre") in Magellan's flagship "Trinidad".
 Albo began keeping his diary - merely only a log book - on the
voyage out, while they were sailing southward in the Atlantic
along the coast of South America, off Brazil.
 Albo does not mention the first mass in his logbook but he
documented the planting of the cross on the southern tip of a
mountain facing three nearby islands.
Despite the absence of explicit mention of the first mass at Limasawa

or Masao in Albo's account, historians suggest that his description
aligns with Limasawa Island's geographical location, situated at the
southern tip of Leyte and facing three nearby islands.
1. THE EVIDENCE OF PIGAFETTA

 The most complete account of the Magellan expedition is that
by Antonio Pigafetta. It was entitled “Primo Viaggio Intomo Al
Mondo” (First Voyage Around the World).
 Pigafetta was also a member of the expedition and an
eyewitness to the principal events including the First Mass in
what is known as the Philippine Archipelago but Magellan
called it Island of Saint Lazarus.
a. Pigafetta’s Testimony Regarding the Route

Magellan's expedition 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
of Magellan's expedition and confirms their arrival at Limasawa
Island.
Magellan's expedition sailed approximately 38.9 kilometers
southbound from Homonhon Island to reach Limasawa Island,
confirming their arrival there.
b. Duration of Stay (7 Days at Mazaua)
 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. During this time, they made
friends with the local leaders by giving and receiving gifts.
c. Evidence of Pigafetta’s map

 First map ( Blair and Robertson, Vol 33) – shows the Irge
island of Samar, and the smaller islands of Suluan,
Abarien, Hiunangan and Humunu.
 Second map (BR 33) – a double map. One map shows
the island of Mindanao and the other map shows the
southern tip of Basilan, and the Sulu Archipelago.
 Third map (BR 33) - shows the island of Mazaua in
relation to islands of Leyte and to those of Bohol,
Gatighan and three islands of Camotes Group.
Pigafetta's maps, though not navigational charts, aid in identifying

islands and establishing their relative positions. One map illustrates
Mazaua near Southern Leyte and Bohol, suggesting its equivalence
to Limasawa. This refutes claims linking Mazaua to Butuan, which is
situated on a separate, larger island, (which we now call Mindanao).
d. The Two Kings

The presence of two native kings at Mazaua during Magellan's
visit is confirmed:
 The king of Mazaua, who later guided the expedition to
Cebu
 The king of Butuan, is described as the "finest-looking
man."
As Pigafetta says:
"His Majesty was the finest-looking man we had yet seen in
those regions, and we shall have more to say about him later.
At present, it suffices to mention that he was a visitor to
Mazaua, his territory being Butuan, which lay in another island,
that is to say, the island of his Majesty was called Butuan and
Calagan."
Therefore they were in Limasawa not in Butuan.
e. An Argument from Ommision

 Pigafetta's account of Limasawa doesn't mention a river,
which is odd given Butuan's location on the Agusan River
delta.
 Butuan's significance is tied to its river, yet Pigafetta's
narrative doesn't reference it.
 Survivors later emphasized Butuan's importance, especially
its river, highlighting a contrast with Pigafetta's description of
Limasawa as an island without mentioning a river.
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 1
In the ongoing debate surrounding the site of the first Mass in the
Philippines, what remains undeniable is the profound impact it has had on
the nation's history and identity. As historians continue to sift through
evidence and perspectives, this enduring discussion serves as a testament
to the richness and complexity of Philippine heritage. Regardless of where
the first Mass truly took place, its legacy endures as a symbol of cultural
exchange, religious transformation, and the resilience of the Filipino spirit.
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 difficulties, 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.
EXCERPT: Antonio Pigafetta. First Voyage Around the World,. Emma Helen
Blair and James Alexander Robertson (1906). The Philippine Islands, 1493-
1898, Vol. XXXIII 1519- 1522. (pp. 103-137)

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Reporter 1 (Allison)

"Welcome, everyone! Join us on a journey back in time to where history,

The first Mass in the Philippines represents the merging of cultures

Despite the absence of explicit mention of the first mass at Limasawa

1. THE EVIDENCE OF PIGAFETTA

a. Pigafetta’s Testimony Regarding the Route

b. Duration of Stay (7 Days at Mazaua)

 Magellan together with the crew remained in Limasawa from

c. Evidence of Pigafetta’s map

Pigafetta's maps, though not navigational charts, aid in identifying

d. The Two Kings

e. An Argument from Ommision

1. Lack of detailed accounts

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