seniors: we can always learn something new, promise

Baliktanaw. Mensahe ni Bishop Reynaldo Evangelista tungkol sa Black Saturday, 2009

 

MENSAHE NI MOST REV. BISHOP REYNALDO EVANGELISTA,

SA PAGBUBUKAS NG MARINDUQUE EXPO, 2009.

Bishop Reynaldo Evangelista

 

“… Ito po ay nabanggit ko noong Linggo ng Palaspas. Ang isa po sa dapat itama at bigyan natin ng pansin at yun po ay pinagsisikapan ng lahat ng mga Obispo ay mabigyan ng emphasis yung celebration ng Easter. Ang pinaghandaan po natin nung 40-days ng Kuwaresma, Mahal na Araw, ay yung Pasko ng Pagkabuhay, hindi yung Biyernes Santo. Kasi, Biyernes Santo nag-alay Siya ng Buhay kaya may prusisyon sa hapon, ito’y Prusisyon ng Libing, kaya may Santo Entierro … mali yung ating practice. Mali yung ating pangingilin.

“Kaya po dapat ay makatawid tayo dun sa Muling Pagkabuhay. Kaya po kung maaari at challenge ko sa Boac, maging challenge sa lahat din ng bayan, maging talagang joyful celebration yung Easter, yung talagang Muling Pagkabuhay – simula sa Salubong sa madaling-araw, kung kinakailangan naikot ang banda sa bayan.

“Alam ninyo sa Gasan, may malaking festival pagka Easter Sunday. .. napakahalaga po nung pagdiriwang ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay sa gabi – yung Easter Vigil…  Buong simbahan po sa buong mundo nagdiriwang noon. Ay baka maagaw ng commercial side ng celebration yung celebration na iyon.

“Kung maaari po, at ito’y nabanggit ko sa mga pari na ipaliwanag ito sa mga tao. Sa totoo lang, hindi yung kinabukasan ay tapos na iyon. Siyempre narinig noong araw na ‘Sabado de Gloria’, iyon ang sumiksik sa isip ng maraming mga tao, iyun na ‘yon. Hindi po. Iyon pong Saturday ang tawag ngayon ay Black Saturday… Good Friday po yung Biyernes Santo , yun pong Saturday ay Araw ng Pagluluksa kaya Black.

“Kaya po dapat doon ay hindi pa puwede ang mga kung ano-ano mang sayahan. Iyon po ang napakahalagang maituro din natin sa ibang mga tao… Ito po’y binabanggit ko sa inyo, para mapagplanuhan natin kung ano pang magandang adjustment o mga celebration na maintroduce natin.

“ Salamat po ng marami sa inyo.”

 

Ref. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giwWrYs2eZE

Description: 

The Moriones Festival of Marinduque has been the subject of studies on how commerce and trade, modernization and political intervention have, over the years, variously impacted on the colorful folk tradition originally associated with spirituality, penance and vows. In this video, the Most Reverend Bishop of Boac, Reynaldo Evangelista expresses his thoughts and recollections on the moriones tradition and the need for adjustments, among them, the challenge to truly make the solemn observance of Black Saturday, then Easter Sunday as a day of rejoicing. The focus on things spiritual must be kept, he said, that could even lead to Marinduque making a name for itself as a Spiritual Renewal Destination in the future. His message was conveyed during the opening program of the Moriones Festival (2009), with local government officials and private sector in attendance. This year's Lenten celebration in the Philippine's central island-province, dubbed as "Semana Santa sa Marinduque" thus, strikes a balance between, commerce and spirituality, politics and religion, in keeping with the Bishop's spiritual message.

Marinduque downgraded to Alert Level 1; IATF approves amended guidelines for Alert Level 1

 

 Gov. Presby Velasco chats with senior citizens in a recent activity.

 

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) on Sunday approved the amendments to the guidelines on the nationwide implementation of the Alert Level System for Covid-19 response. 

This, after the IATF also approved on Sunday placing the National Capital Region and 38 other areas including the province of Marinduque under Alert Level 1 from March 1 to 15.

Under Alert Level 1, the IATF said there are no restrictions in terms of indoor and outdoor capacities. Everyone can undertake intrazonal and interzonal travel without regard to age and even comorbidities.

All establishments, persons, or activities are likewise allowed to operate, work, or be undertaken at total on-site or venue seating capacity, provided these are consistent with minimum public health standards.

Meanwhile, face-to-face classes for primary education shall be subject to prior approval of the Office of the President.

Below are some of the protocols to be observed under Alert Level 1:

 

*Well-fitted face masks shall be worn properly at all times, whether outdoors or in indoor private or public establishments, including in public transportation by land, air or sea, except when eating and drinking, participating in team and individual sports in venues where ventilation standards can be maintained, and practicing outdoor sports/exercise activities where physical distance can be maintained;

*All private offices and workplaces, including public and private construction sites, may operate at full 100 percent capacity, consistent with national issuances on vaccination requirements for on-site work. However, they may continue to provide flexible and alternative work arrangements as deemed appropriate based on function or individual risk.

*Agencies and instrumentalities of the government shall likewise adhere to 100 percent on-site workforce. Off-site work shall be under such work arrangements subject to relevant rules and regulations issued by the Civil Service Commission and the Office of the President.

*On the other hand, public transportation in areas under Alert Level 1 shall be at full seating capacity. For intrazonal and interzonal travels involving public land transportation between an area with a higher alert level classification and an area under Alert Level 1, the passenger capacity shall be that which has the lower passenger capacity rate between the point of origin and point of destination. For aviation, maritime and rail public transport operating in and out of Alert Levels 1 areas, the passenger capacity will be at 100 percent. The use of acrylic and/or plastic dividers in public transportation shall not be required. The use of the Safe, Swift and Smart Passage (S-PaSS) travel management system shall likewise not be required for interzonal travel to areas under Alert Level 1.

*On contact tracing, the use of health declaration forms/paper-based contact tracing shall not be required for all the agencies and establishments under Alert Level 1. On the other hand, the use of digital contact tracing such as the StaySafe.PH application is optional for all the agencies and establishments.

*On testing prioritization, testing protocols shall be implemented, consistent with national guidelines, for individuals who are unvaccinated or have higher exposure risk pursuant to IATF Resolution No. 148-B and No. 149, s. 2021. In addition, testing using RT-PCR shall be recommended and prioritized for: Priority Groups A2 (persons above 60 years old) and A3 (persons with comorbidities) and Priority Group A1 or healthcare workers. Testing shall be optional for other groups not stated above. It shall not be recommended for asymptomatic close contacts unless symptoms will develop, and should immediately isolate regardless of test results. Instead, symptom monitoring is recommended. Should testing still be used, testing should be done at least 5 days from the day of last exposure. Testing shall also not be recommended for screening asymptomatic individuals. Meanwhile, testing using antigen tests shall be recommended only for symptomatic individuals and in instances wherein RT-PCR is not available, consistent with previously issued guidelines.

*The Hospital Infection Prevention and Control Committees (HIPCC) may implement testing protocols in health facilities for health workers and patients based on their assessment of risk and benefit.

*On isolation and quarantine, updated quarantine protocols for incoming international travelers shall be consistent with IATF Resolution No. 160 A/B, and updated isolation and quarantine protocols for general public and healthcare workers and authorized sectors shall be consistent with DOH Dept Memo No. 2022-0013.

*Under Alert Level 1, establishments are no longer required to set-up isolation facilities within the workplace.

*On treatment, close contacts, asymptomatic confirmed cases and mild to moderate confirmed cases shall be managed at the primary care level, such as health centers, private clinics thru face to face or teleconsultation, while confirmed cases with severe and critical symptoms shall be managed in the appropriate health care facility.

*In the case of reintegration, isolation can be discontinued upon completion of the recommended isolation period, provided that they do not have fever for at least 24 hours without the use of any antipyretic medications, and shall have improvement of respiratory signs and symptoms.

*For the purpose of claiming sick leave, health benefits or other relevant processes wherein the proofs of Covid-19 management are necessary, a medical certification may suffice provided it should include the following minimum information: name of patient, severity of symptoms, diagnosis as probable or confirmed COVID-19, and date of end of quarantine and/or isolation period.

Meanwhile, individuals 18 years old and above will be required to present proof of full vaccination before participating in mass gatherings or entry into indoor establishments, such as but not limited to:

*In-person religious gatherings; gatherings for necrological services, wakes, inurnment and funerals for those who died of causes other than Covi-19 and for the cremains of the Covid-19 deceased;

*All indoor dine-in services of food preparation establishments such as kiosks, commissaries, restaurants and eateries. For outdoor or al fresco dining and take out channels, no proof of full vaccination is required;

*All indoor personal care establishments such as barbershops, hair spas, hair salons, and nail spas, and those offering aesthetic/cosmetic services or procedures, make-up services, salons, spas, reflexology and other similar procedures including home service options;

*Fitness studios, gyms and venues for exercise and sports;

*All indoor cinemas or movie houses operating at full capacity;

*Meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibition events and permitted venues for social events such as parties, wedding receptions, engagement parties, wedding anniversaries, debut and birthday parties, family reunions, and bridal or baby showers;

*Venues with live voice or wind-instrument performers and audiences such as in karaoke bars, clubs, concert halls and theaters;

*Indoor ancillary establishments in hotels and other accommodation establishments; and

*Venues for election-related events.

 

Proof of full vaccination shall be required before entry in the list of establishments identified under the principles of 3C’s strategy against Covid-19.

Children ages 17 and below shall not be required to present proof of vaccination status.

Aside from NCR, other areas placed under Alert Level 1 include:

• Abra, Apayao, Baguio City and Kalinga in the Cordillera Administrative Region;

• Dagupan City, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan in Region 1 (Ilocos);

• Batanes, Cagayan, City of Santiago, Isabela, and Quirino in Region 2(Cagayan Valley);

• Angeles City, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Olongapo City, Pampanga, and Tarlac in Region 3 (Central Luzon);

• Cavite and Laguna in Region 4-A (Calabarzon);

• Marinduque, Puerto Princesa City, and Romblon in Region 4-B (Mimaropa); and

• Naga City and Catanduanes in Region 5 (Bicol).

 

In the Visayas, also under Alert Level 1 are:

• Aklan, Bacolod City, Capiz, and Guimaras in Region 6 (Western Visayas);

• Siquijor in Region 7 (Central Visayas); and

• Biliran in Region 8 (Eastern Visayas).

 

In Mindanao, the following areas under Alert Level 1 are:

• Zamboanga City in Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula);

• Cagayan de Oro City and Camiguin in Region 10 (Northern Mindanao); and

• Davao City in Region 11 (Davao). (PNA)

-(PNA)

National Cultural Treasure: Rare celadon jar comes home to Marinduque

 

HOMEWARD BOUND | Gregg Alfonso Abbang, a researcher at the Archeological Division of the National Museum of the Philippines, takes the celadon jar from its display case to be returned to Marinduque on Feb. 21. The jar, discovered in Marinduque sometime in the early 1960s, has been stored in the National Museum since 1965. —PHOTO FROM THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES

BOAC, Marinduque, Philippines — One of the only three known celadon jars of its kind in the world has finally returned to Marinduque after over half a century since it was discovered in this island province. 

The celadon jar was unveiled at the satellite display center of the National Museum of the Philippines in this town on Feb. 21 as part of the celebrations for the 102nd founding anniversary of Marinduque.

Personnel from the National Museum Marinduque, Romblon satellite office, other local government officials, and representatives from the academe witnessed the unveiling of the Marinduque celadon jar. 

Local officials and residents led by Gov. Presbitero Velasco Jr. said they were grateful to everyone who exerted effort in getting the celadon jar back to Marinduque where it was found sometime in the early 1960s. 

“Such tangible cultural heritage is a vital part of our identity and they are our windows to the past,” said Velasco during the unveiling. 

Velasco’s son, House Speaker Lord Allan Jay Velasco, said that the discovery of the celadon jar in Marinduque was “a proof of the rich and noble/dignified culture and history” of their ancestors. 

“It signifies that people of Marinduque were already civilized even as early as the 15th century or even before the Spanish conquerors came here. This was also a symbol of the businesses with the Chinese,” he said in a message read by Provincial Administrator Michael Velasco. 

Unique find

There are only two other known celadon jars of this kind, according to the National Museum. 

One is displayed at the British Museum in London in the United Kingdom. 

The other was owned by the late art collector Arturo de Santos, a Filipino ceramic enthusiast in the 1960s. Records were scarce as to the exact whereabouts of most of the De Santos art collection, including the celadon jar after he died in 1996. 

The Marinduque celadon jar was declared in 2010 as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum for its rarity, craftsmanship, and historical and cultural relevance.

The National Museum described the jar as “rare stoneware dated to 1279 to 1368 Common Era (CE), during the Yuan dynasty in China. It features a translucent jade-like green glaze application throughout its body, decorated with four Chinese dragons in embossed relief—a symbol of imperial power, strength and good fortune in East Asian culture.” 

The 31.2-centimeter-tall and 18.5-cm-wide jar has an everted rim, a short-waisted neck edged shoulder with four vertical lugs, a broad body, narrow bottom and flat foot. 

Celadon, or greenware, is a kind of stoneware ceramic with bluish-green or grey-green glaze fired between 1,200 degrees Celsius and 1,350 C. 

“Its dragon motif suggests that the Marinduque celadon jar is not an average object but a unique marker of prestige, making it an important and rare acquisition of the National Museum,” the museum said. 

Mysterious owner

The jar came into the possession of the National Museum in 1965 when it was purchased by the museum’s then assistant director, Alfredo Evangelista, who included the artifact in the museum’s collections. 

But who actually owned the jar before it was bought by Evangelista, or from whom did he acquire the artifact, remained a mystery. 

According to National Museum records, all they knew was that Evangelista conducted a systematic excavation at Pilapil Cave (now Ka Amon Cave) in Torrijos, Marinduque, in 1961, which yielded local artifacts and sherds, or pieces of ceramic wares, associated with Song (960-1279 CE) and Yuan (1279-1368 CE) periods. But it was not clear if the celadon jar was among them. 

Evangelista, who died in Laguna province on Oct. 18, 2008, did not leave any record on how he came to own the celadon jar. 

Local historians and researchers, to this day, are still investigating the jar’s past whereabouts before it came into Evangelista’s possession. - Mayda Narito Lagran, Inquirer

Araw ng Marinduque 2022: Marinduque Celadon Jar send off and welcome program for its unveiling

 

No to forget! The Marinduque Celadon Jar, is a National Cultural Treasure

On February 18, personnel from the National Museum Philippines, Archeology Division carefully wrapped and packed the Marinduque Celadon Jar, which is now already in transit to the National Museum Marinduque-Romblon.

Museum Researcher Mr. Gregg Alfonso Abang removing the Celadon Jar from the showcase

Acquired by the National Museum of the Philippines in 1965, through the then Assistant Director Alfredo Evangelista, the Marinduque Celadon Jar was exhibited at Palayok: The Ceramic Heritage of the Philippines gallery of the National Museum of Anthropology. Fifty-six years later after it was found, this National Cultural Treasure (NTC) will be unveiled to the people of Marinduque on February 21, 2022 as they celebrate the 102nd Founding Anniversary of their hometown.

This rare stoneware is dated to 1279 to 1368 Common Era, during the Yuan Dynasty in China. It features a translucent jade-like green glaze application throughout its body, decorated with four Chinese dragons in embossed relief – a symbol of imperial power, strength, and good fortune in East Asian culture.

In 2010, the Marinduque Celadon Jar was declared a National Cultural Treasure for its outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or scientific value which is significant and important to the country and nation.

Staff from the Archaeology Division inspecting the Celadon Jar

Staff from the Archaeology Division placing the Celadon Jar inside the box

NMP Staff from Archaeology Division, GASD, MSD & RCCMD

Welcome Program

On the scheduled unveiling of the NTC at the National Museum in Malusak, Boac on Monday, February 21 at 3:00 pm invited guests will be welcomed by the Pangkat Kalutang Group and Morion Group acting as Honor Guards outside the Museum.

The program starts with a Prayer offered by Rev. Fr. Eulogio Mangui parish priest of the Boac Cathedral followed by messages from NM Director-General Jeremy Barnes, Boac Mayor Armi DC Carrion, Governor Presbitero Velasco, Jr., and House Speaker Lord Allan Q. Velasco.

The Marinduque Celadon Jar will then be unveiled in a special glass display case at the Mezzanine Gallery. The Yuan Dynasty Jar’s homecoming after more than five decades when it was found was initiated by Gov. Velasco in 2019, part of the provincial government's efforts to generate new interest on Marinduque’s rich history and numerous tangible and intangible cultural treasures. 

Photos courtesy of the National Museum of the Philippines

Unveiling of Marinduque Celadon Jar, National Cultural Treasure

 

In time for the 102nd Foundation Anniversary of Marinduque, the Marinduque Celadon Jar will be unveiled to the public on February 21, 2022.

The Marinduque Celadon Jar was acquired in 1965 by Alfredo Evangelista, then Assistant Director of the National Museum of the Philippines. This rare stoneware is dated to 1279 to 1368 Common Era, during the Yuan Dynasty in China. It features a translucent jade-like green glaze application throughout its body, decorated with four Chinese dragons in embossed relief – a symbol of imperial power, strength, and good fortune in East Asian culture.

The artifact’s form is characterized with an everted rim, short-waisted neck edged shoulder with four vertical lugs, broad body, narrow bottom, and flat foot. It measures 31.2 cm in height and 18.5 cm in maximum body width. The dragon motif suggests that the Marinduque Celadon Jar is not an average object but a unique marker of prestige, making it an important and rare acquisition of the National Museum.

The Marinduque Celadon Jar is one of the three (3) known existing celadon jars of its kind – the other two are part of the collections of the British Museum in London and of Dr. Arturo de Santos, a Filipino ceramic enthusiast in the 1960s.

In 2010, the Marinduque Celadon Jar was declared a National Cultural Treasure for its outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or scientific value which is significant and important to the country and nation.

© 2022 National Museum of the Philippines

Speaker Velasco: Mayor Inday Sara will make a good VP

 

Speaker Lord Allan Velasco on Friday said he strongly believes Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte will make a good vice president, as he reiterated his all-out and unconditional support for her candidacy.

Velasco likened the vice-presidential frontrunner to the majestic Philippine Eagle that symbolizes courage and compassion.

“Mayor Inday Sara possesses a clear vision, is courageous, has integrity, honesty, humility, compassion and clear focus. There is no doubt she will be a good vice president,” Velasco, a close friend and ally of the presidential daughter, said while campaigning for her Friday morning in Cabanatuan City.

The House leader issued the statement as his team joined the Luzon leg of Mayor Duterte’s Mahalin Natin ang Pilipinas Ride (MNPR), a month-long national caravan that is taking her from Davao City to various parts of the country.

Velasco, who is running unopposed in Marinduque’s lone congressional district, is also supporting Pusong Pinoy Party-list, which is running under the platform “Labanan ang Sakit at Kahirapan.”

Thousands of people lined up along the highway in Nueva Ecija as they waited for the arrival of Mayor Duterte and her team.

The caravan was headed for Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya Friday afternoon.

National Arts Month 2022: SINING NG PAG-ASA

 

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts, through the various National Committees under its Subcommission on the Arts, has lined up various programs that highlight the art forms and how they inspire and express hope in these times.

Join us on the following dates as we celebrate artistic excellence and the creativity of the Filipinos. Continue celebrating National Arts Month 2022 with us!

Learn more about these programs by visiting NCCA website at ncca.gov.ph.

Stay up to date with announcements! Follow, like, and subscribe to our social media pages.

Halina't maki-Sining!

Representative list of Marinduque cultural properties shared

An offshoot of Marinduque's submission of its Inventory of Cultural Properties is a rapid-presentation of a representative list of cultural properties for the NCCA-RDC MIMAROPA Special Committee on Culture on February 9, 2022. The orientation workshop on the Heritage Law and PRECUP and Local Cultural Development Planning was participated in by LGUs, Local Culture and Arts Committees (LCACs), and relevant agencies.

For the inventory of tangible and intangible cultural properties, 45 were initially identified, 17 of which have been declared by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the National Museum. 28 are presumed important cultural property currently not declared by the NCCA or NCAs, or declared by the respective LGUs through resolution and those that carry significance to local culture and history.

The representative list of cultural properties follows.

TANGIBLE - IMMOVABLE

BOAC CATHEDRAL – The original state of the Boac Cathedral was with “palitada” as outer covering of the stone wall.  It was heavily destroyed by a destructive Category 5 super typhoon “Herming” in 1987.  

In rehabilitating the Church at that lime, palitada was removed exposing the old stones or red bricks of the Church making it look more “authentic”.  New bricks were added to the exterior. Physical changes were likewise made to the interior of the Church.

On  16 February 2020, a historical marker from the National Museum of the Philippines was unveiled declaring Boac Cathedral  an Important Cultural Property (ICP).

 

MUSEO AT AKLATAN NG BOAC - The building and lot was turned over to the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) in 1992 by the Municipality of Boac. The building was restored, and the museum was eventually opened to the public on February 22, 1995.

It is now known as the NM Marinduque-Romblon Area Museum and now features, among others, ethnographic and marine archaeology exhibits showcasing the island-province’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

Before its conversion as a museum this old Spanish building was used as a prison, a boy’s school, a government office and library.

 

LABANAN SA PAYE MONUMENT -  An NHI marker was placed in 2000 near a portion of the riverbed where the encounter took place. The Level II - Historical marker reads in part:

“LABANAN SA PAYE: NAGANAP SA POOK NA ITO ANG PANGALAWANG LABANAN SA MARINDUQUE NG DIGMAANG PILIPINO–AMERIKANO NOONG HULYO 31, 1900. NAGWAGI ANG SECOND GUERILLA UNIT (BAHAGI NG DATING SECOND COMPANY, INFANTRY BATTALION), MARINDUQUE REVOLUTIONARY FORCE, NA NAKATALAGA SA REHIYON BOAC–MOGPOG SA PAMUMUNO NI KAPITAN TEOFILO ROQUE.”

Now a well-designed monument stands at the old site.

 

CEMENTERIO DE TAMPUS - Exact date of establishment unknown but according to tradition is the oldest Catholic cemetery in Boac. “Campo Santo de Tampus” as it is referred to by some, is believed to be as old as the Boac Cathedral, was therefore built in the 1700s.

The town’s leaders, the rich and the poor, those massacred at Casa Real during the Philippine Revolution were buried here, some actually identified and named as heroes.

There are now plans to convert it into a Shrine or new cemetery with appropriate historical markers, serving as a focus for the pilgrimage of the descendants of those buried here, protected from activities deemed disrespectful. 

 

CASA NARVAS - Built in 1920 by Elias Narvas, a local coconut trader it was called ‘bahay na bato’ characterized by its massive hardwood flooring, a balaustre and  an azotea of Spanish and Chinese influence.

During those years it became a hub for social and political gatherings. Some dignitaries both foreign and local have dropped by this house to attend a ceremony or to be hosted for a while as house guests. Among these personalities were Gov. Gen. Leonard Wood, Philippine Presidents Manuel L. Quezon, Jose P. Laurel, Manuel A. Roxas and Elpidio Quirino.

In its declaration of Casa Narvas as a Heritage House, the NHI had stated that “as the venue of political meets and social balls, it stands as testimony to the cultural and political life of Boac, Marinduque”.  It also cited that “the house is distinct for its historical and artistic values and today is an example of architecture from the early years of the twentieth century in Boac, Marinduque”.

 

PROVINCIAL CAPITOL BUILDING = The neo-classical Marinduque Provincial Capitol Building was built in 1927. It consists of a two-storey concrete structure with four columns in front. Was rehabilitated in 1947 after the war and is still being used today to house certain provincial offices including the office of the Governor.

Fronting the building is the landscaped Capitol Park where could be found the Centennial Monument, a concrete tableau of “Pugutan”, and Bantayog Wika installed in recognition of Tagalog Marinduque (or Marindukenyo).

 

BANTAYOG SA SENTENARYO NG MARINDUQUE  - This Bantayog was unveiled on February 21, 2020 in commemoration of the establishment of Marinduque as an independent province.

The 'morion' mask that has been synonymous with the Province of Marinduque is depicted in the monument, a colorful tradition and culture, an expression of our faith and values.

It sits on a hexagonal platform which complements the six sides of the pillars to symbolize the six towns that comprise the province.

 

SIMBAHAN NG STA CRUZ - The Church of the Holy Cross was built by Jesuit missionaries and was completed in 1714. It is the oldest church in Marinduque.

Like the Boac Cathedral, it was used by the Anerican forces as their garrison during the Philippine-American War in Marinduque.

The church has undergone rehabilitation through the years but its retablos, pulpit and ceiling and general appearance have been kept intact.

It is awaiting recognition by the cultural agencies concerned as another  Cultural Property that also deserves a historical marker.

 

LABANAN SA PULANG LUPA – Monument signifying the Victory of Filipino soldiers over U.S. Forces during the Philippine-American War.

On September 13, 2000 the National Historical Institute (NHI) installed a National Historical Landmark that reads in part: “ANG LABANAN SA PULANG LUPA. DITO NAGANAP ANG MADUGONG LABANAN NG HUKBONG PILIPINO SA PAMUMUNO NI TENYENTE-KORONEL MAXIMO ABAD AT HUKBONG AMERIKANO SA PAMUMUNO NI KAPITAN DEVEREUX SHIELDS NOONG SETYEMBRE 13, 1900. NAGTAGUMPAY ANG MGA PILIPINO SA LABANANG ITO.”

 

BALTAZAR LIGHTHOUSE & KEEPER’S DWELLING - Baltazar Lighthouse was built during the American occupation between 1901-1903. It was eventually ravaged by time and typhoons, but in 1954 funds were appropriated  for lighthouse stations in the country including the repair of the said Baltazar Lighthouse keeper's dwelling.

The Keeper’s Dwelling is the oldest American-built standing structure in Marinduque. No rehabilitation has been undertaken since then.

The lighthouse, on the other hand, is an important navigational aid to maritime vessels traversing Tablas Strait that separates the islands of Mindoro, Marinduque and Romblon with Panay islands.

TANGIBLE - MOVABLE

MAHAL NA INA NG BIGLANG AWA - According to oral tradition, the Jesuit missionaries brought to Marinduque the image of the Immaculate Conception in 1621. The three-foot Marian image came from Mexico via the Manila-Acapulco Trade. The island-province lies along the route of the galleon trade. One unique feature of the image is her Sinitic eyes which is unique in the images of the Immaculate Conception in the country.

The Boac Cathedral was constructed with fortified walls to protect the people from these piratical attacks. It was dedicated to the venerated image of the Biglang Awa at the completion of the church in 1792.

 

MARINDUQUE CELADON JAR - The Marinduque Celadon Jar acquired by the NMP in the 1960s and declared as a National Cultural Treasure in 2010.

Four years prior to purchasing the jar, Evangelista of the National Museum conducted systematic excavations at Pilapil Cave in Marinduque, which yielded local artifacts associated to Song (960–1279 CE) and Yuan (1279–1368 CE) periods. The dragon motif of the Marinduque Celadon Jar suggests it is not an average object, but a unique marker of prestige; thus, making it an important and rare acquisition of the NMP.

It is presently exhibited at the National Museum of Anthropology, but will be returned to its place of origin in connection with the Founding Anniversary of the Province of Marinduque this year, and be housed in its new home,  the NM Marinduque-Romblon Area Museum in Boac.

 

QUEEN ISABELA o BIRHENG MARIA -  An existing primary source document from Intramuros Administration indicates that the wooden statue purportedly of Queen Isabela was received by the Gobernadorcillo of Boac in June 1836. This had been on display since time immemorial at the old municipal hall and had been venerated by old folks as Birheng Maria.

Declared a municipal protected historical artifact and treasure.  In the light of other questionable claims, the image should be inspected and officially authenticated by the National Museum or NHCP.

 

LUMANG KAMPANA NG BOAC - This centuries-old bronze bell according to tradition was brought to Marinduque by Jesuit missionaries in the 1620's. It has served the faithful in the locality and has always been a part of the religious rites and rituals of the community.

 

 

MGA KANYON NG BOAC – Used by the Spaniards during their colonization of Boac, Marinduque the three cannons were left abandoned in front of the Casa Real for almost a decade, exposed to various elements, unprotected and needing preservation. Their provenance came to light through research and were declared important municipal artefacts and treasures.

 

FONTANA DE BOAC - The "Fontana de Boac" was finished in 1914. This public fountain became a symbol of aesthetics in the Boac Plaza and a landmark for group pictures especially during important events. The damaged fountain  was moved to its current location in the 1970’s or 1980’s. It will be 108 years old this year. There are official moves to have it fully restored.

 

INTANGIBLE CULTURAL PROPERTY.

MORYONAN PENITENTIAL RITE - The origin of the festival is traced to Mogpog in the 1880’s when Fr. Dionisio Santiago, the parish priest of said town, organized it for the first time.

In the 1960’s the late National Artist for Literature Alejandro Roces made it popular through the media, which concocted the word moriones in contrast to the local term moryonan or pagmomoryon.

The menfolk wear masks and costumes and roam the streets in penitence. The practice also involves the re-enactment of the story of the Roman soldier Longinus, locally called Longhino, who is said to have pierced the side of Christ with a spear during His crucifixion.

Every town in Marinduque now practices the moryonan but the Lenten ritual originated in Mogpog, where the most traditional form of the practice still exists and is still a part of the local church Lenten rituals.

 

TUBONG or PUTONG -  The tubong or putong, is a ceremony indigenous to Marinduque.  Literally, the  word “putong” which means to crown, is a song of thanksgiving, hope and prayer for a long, blessed life.  According to beliefs, the patron saint rejoices at this kind of celebrations and intercedes for the honoree in his wish for long life, for happiness and safety from accidents and bad luck.

Commonly performed to welcome guests and to wish them good life, health and luck.  It is also done during birthdays, anniversaries, graduations or any special events that a person is thankful of and praying for a blessed path in life. 

Natural with Historical/Cultural Significance

STATION BALANACAN (LUZON DATUM OF 1911) - The reference mark is on a hard, white boulder of about one cubic meter in volume, standing 80 cm above the ground and 90 cm higher than the station. The mark is a hole 1.5 cm in diameter and 8 cm deep, at the center of a cross cut on top of this stone.

 The site has been developed after its rediscovery. The place cleared, the stone marker now protected inside a small steel fence.

During the American occupation, the USGS used Luzon Datum of 1911 to gather information for topographic, geodetic and hydrographic surveys. It was established with triangulation Station Balanacan as its datum origin which is now the primary geodetic reference center of all surveys in the Philippines.

The NAMRIA, the DENR several years ago formed a task group with the National Historical Commisssion of the Philippines (NHCP) and the Provincial Government of Marinduque to protect and preserve this important site. The area has since been developed as a tourist site and is now a major tourist attraction.

 

MALBOG SULFURIC HOT SPRING -During the Spanish and early American occupation, water from this hot spring was sold in bottles and was labeled “Agua de Boac”. It could be taken internally as a cure for dysentery or applied externally for skin disorders. Anacleto del Rosario, a leading pharmacist and chemist during the Spanish period who made a lot of analyses of mineral springs and medicinal waters in the country, also examined the chemical components of “Agua de Boac” and considered it comparable to other well-known curatives like “Agua de Carabana” and “Agua de Vichy” from Europe.

At the 1904 World’s Fair in New Orleans, bottled “Agua de Boac” from this spring was included among the exhibits from the Philippines.

Over the years we became too familiar with modern medicine, but many still pay homage to Malbog Sulfuric Spring.

 

AZIMUTH STATION BALTAZAR -   Luzon Datum in Brgy. Hinanggayon, Mogpog had for its geodetic azimuth mark the Station BALTASAR (azimuth: 90 12' 37".00) located in Baltazar Island.  USC and Geodetic Survey under O.W. Ferguson established both stations with H.D. King as Chief Of Party. The historical documentation on the triangulation of the Philippine Islands gives the establishment of this Azimuth Station as 1906.

The Luzon Datum, the geodetic center of the Philippines cannot exist without an azimuth. The defining geodetic azimuth (from south) to station Baltazar is: ao = 009° 12’ 37.000”. The AZIMUTH MARKER in Station Baltazar right in the vicinity of the Lighthouse is waiting to be discovered and is of interest to historical, cultural and geodetic authorities.

 

GASPAR ‘HERITAGE’ ISLAND - Archaeology in the Philippines began in Marinduque. Prior to 1900, only one important archaeological investigation had been carried out in the country: the Antoine-Alfred Marche’s exploration of Marinduque from April to July 1881.

Archaeology in the island of Gaspar, one of the Tres Reyes Islands, were undertaken and studied in various periods by Marche, Beyer, Fox, Evangelista and Manuel.

In addition, between this island and the mainland, a sunken Chinese junk of the Sung and Chang Dynasty was discovered by fishermen and recovered by a joint team of the National Museum  and a foreign salvage group in 1982. The surrounding waters of Gaspar Island is a protected marine reserve called the Tres Reyes Marine Sanctuary and may also need additional protection measures.