In studying philippine history, it is important to note the important events in our history, in order to explain it and expound its root. Historians really did an analysis and research important things about our history. There are events in our history that maybe had a conflict, like the place where the first mass held and Christianity in Philippines born.
There was a controversy regarding where the site of the first mass was held in Philippines when Ferdinand Magellan reach our archipelago, in Masao or Limasawa.
During the 17th century, two Jesuit historians accounted for Magellan's voyage in the Philippines. On the first book it seemed familiar and precise with the account of Magellan's voyage and for his narration of Magelkans Landing in Homonhon Island which they spelled Humunu as also written in Pigafetta's Chronicle but the problem is there is a contradiction in place where the first mass held, According to Combes account Magellan landed in Butuan and he put the cross in a solemn ceremony but he did not mention about the first mass held.
Contradicting versions of two Jesuits historians:
1. Combes-Magellan Magellan went first to Limasawa then to Butuan and went back to Liamasua before sailing to Cebu.
2. Collin-Magellan went first to Butuan then to Limasaua before sailing to cebu.
Evidence that shows Limasawa was the place where the First mass Held
1.Albo's Log Book
Albo was part of Magellan's Expedition. He was the pilot of flagship La Trinidad. He was one the eighteen survivor of the expedition who returned to Spain. Also kept his own diary by a log book during their voyage.
2.Pigafetta's Chronicle
Antonio Pigafetta was the official Chronicler of Ferdinand Magellan he recorded everything he observed during their voyages. They used Pigafetta's record like:
a. Pigafettas testimony regarding the route
b.Pigafettas drawn map
c.the two native kings as Stated in Pigafetta's Chronicle
d. The seven days stay in the place called "mazaua"
In relation to this issue a law was passed in congress even high it is still under debate, Ŕepublic act 2733 declares Limasawa Island in the province of Leyte as the place where the first Mass in the Philippines was held.
