The First Mass in the Philippines was held on Easter Sunday, March 31, 1521, at Limasawa Island 504 years ago. This historic event remains a significant milestone in Philippine history and Christianity.
Provincial Tourism Manager Nedgar Garvez revealed that plans are underway to construct a legacy cross to commemorate the event. This huge cross will be placed atop the hill, visible from afar because of its size, strategic location and design.
Several activities have been lined up to celebrate the occasion, including the First Celebration of Mass, Misa Novena, Opening Salvo, and various church-related events. On the part of the local government unit of Limasawa, additional activities such as pump boat and sailboat races, as well as a fun run have been scheduled to engage the local community’s participation.
Additionally, attention has been drawn to the Limasawa Pot, an artifact discovered during cultural mapping fieldwork in Barangay San Agustin, Limasawa on November 11, 2015. This celadon trade ware, measuring three inches high and four inches in diameter, is believed to have originated from the Song Dynasty (960–1279 A.D.) in China, making it between 700 and 1,000 years old. The pot features a four-leaf clover design and inscriptions in Baybayin, the ancient Filipino script. Experts have deciphered the words bakalág (human sacrifice) and Masáwa (place name), suggesting the pot’s ritualistic significance. It is believed to have been used by ancient Filipino priestesses, known as babaylan, in sacrificial ceremonies, possibly as a burial send-off item.
With these historical and cultural highlights, the 504th anniversary of the First Mass in the Philippines serves not only as a religious commemoration but also as an opportunity to rediscover and celebrate the rich heritage of Limasawa Island.
While preparations for the celebration are ongoing, the schedule of activities was obtained from the office of Rev. Msgr. Oscar Cadayona.
The 504th anniversary celebration commenced from March 20 until 31, 2025, with religious and cultural activities laid out under the theme “Jubilee Year: Pilgrims of Hope.” A motorcade was conducted from the Cathedral-Shrine to Padre Burgos, followed by a journey to Magallanes, Limasawa, where the opening salvo Mass took place.
Vicariate pilgrimages from March 21 to the 29th were allotted for Eucharistic celebrations, adoration, and confession. On March 30, the Youth Pilgrimage will feature talks, Eucharistic celebrations, and a Pontifical Mass to be presided by Most Rev. Precioso D. Cantillas. The Kahayag Festival will follow.
The main event on March 31 will include a Pontifical Mass, the Youth Pilgrims of Hope Procession of the Jubilee Cross, and the Commissioning of Lay Eucharistic Ministers. The celebration will conclude with a Ground Demonstration of the Sinugdan Festival, showcasing Limasawa’s cultural heritage. (AndreaVista, ElgiaJorta, JeraiahHilot)
