Marinduque showcases its beauty during the 105th Provincial Day Festival.
The picturesque island province of Marinduque, celebrated for its vibrant Holy Week Moriones Festival and the captivating sight of its Roman-inspired “moryon” devotees, proudly commemorates a significant milestone as it marks the 105th anniversary of its reestablishment as a province from February 20 to 23. This event not only highlights the rich cultural heritage of Marinduque but also invites visitors to immerse themselves in its colorful traditions and festive spirit.
Moryon of Boac
The three-day extravaganza unfolds on February 20, beginning with the vibrant Agriculture, Tourism, and Trade Fair, designed to celebrate the region’s rich agricultural products and thriving tourism sector. The event will also feature the Balik-Tanaw sa Kasaysayan Forum, a reflective gathering that delves deep into the province’s extensive history, stretching far beyond its 105 years. Additionally, a thrilling province-wide torch marathon will ignite community spirit and participation.
Foundation Day on February 21 marks a poignant opening with the lighting of the symbolic “Isang Alab” torch, signifying unity and hope. This day will be further enriched by a heartfelt Eucharistic celebration and a solemn wreath-laying ceremony, honoring the province’s heritage. Governor Presbitero Velasco will deliver the State of the Province Address (SOPA), outlining the achievements and aspirations for Marinduque. The day also features the prestigious Gawad Marinduqueno awards, recognizing the exceptional contributions of local individuals and groups, followed by the exhilarating launch of the PusoMoto: Heart of the Island Marinduque Circuit Motoring Adventure, which promises a thrilling experience for motoring enthusiasts.
The festivities will culminate on February 22 with the spectacular Festival of Festivals and Float Parade, where various municipalities will showcase their unique cultural pride and traditions through beautifully adorned floats. The celebration will be capped off with the dazzling Alab Night fireworks display, lighting up the night sky and providing a breathtaking finale to this remarkable celebration.
According to Marinduque congressman Lord Allan Jay Velasco, the province will unmask itself in the said celebration by showcasing its rich cultural heritage, natural gems, and the diverse attractions which can make the island the next tourist hotspot.
The former House Speaker, who is also a motorsports enthusiast, enthused that the island has become a favorite expedition for group and individual motorcycle riders and bikers because of its panoramic and splendid circumferential and radial roads.
Revered as “the heartland of the Philippines,” Marinduque proudly claims the title of the geodetic center of the archipelago, a designation first established by American engineers through the Luzon Datum of 1911. At the summit of this enchanting province lies a hilltop marker in Mogpog, accessible via a winding staircase adorned with the 14 Stations of the Cross. The journey culminates at a breathtaking viewdeck, where a statue of Our Lady of Instant Succor stands sentinel, gazing serenely over the shimmering bay and the undulating hills that paint the landscape.
Marinduque gained independence as a province on February 21, 1920, during the American colonial period, after a rich history as part of Batangas, Mindoro, and as a sub-province of the former Tayabas province (now Quezon). Its legacy, however, stretches back centuries, filled with a tapestry of diverse stories and traditions that continue to shape its identity.
For those seeking sun-soaked adventures, the province offers an inviting coastline replete with pristine white beaches and idyllic islands. Among these gems are the Tres Reyes Islands in Buenavista, the serene shores of Polo, and the hidden treasures of Mompong and Maniwaya, where the Palad sandbar unveils itself during low tide, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Poctoy Beach in Torrijos has a long stretch of fine sand and crystalline water, a dive shop, and the posh Amara Resort and Beach Villas, an exclusive luxe hotel noted for its indigenous architecture and interior design. Beneath the sea, it has a gallery of moryon statues and lush coral gardens which scuba divers can explore.
Other natural tourist magnets are its caves and waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, therapeutic hot springs, the 1,157-meter Mt. Malindig, and butterfly gardens which attest to the area’s rich biodiversity which has made it the “butterfly capital” of the country.
Culture-wise, it is a treasure trove of customs, most notably the “putong” ritual where guests are crowned with leaves by the townsfolk and serenaded with native songs and dances.
A must-see is the Immaculate Conception Church or Boac Cathedral, which is recognized by the National Museum as an Important Cultural Property (ICP). Not to be missed are the National Museum branch which showcases the geology of the Mimaropa Region and the neo-classical inspired provincial capitol complex which is punctuated by moryon-inspired Centennial Monument obelisk and the Bantayog-Wika of the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino.
Chill at night and travel back in time in the ancestral homes in Boac which have been repurposed into quaint restaurants, coffee shops, pension houses, and tourist establishments.
A source of local pride is the Battle of Pulang Lupa Shrine in Torrijos, a hilltop historical park which immortalizes the victory of freedom fighters over American troops in 1900 during the Filipino-American War
Marinduque can be reached by car or bus via Dalahican port in Lucena City, Quezon. For ease of travel, guests can book through the Island Hopper website.
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Read: Top 19 Best TOURIST SPOTS IN MARINDUQUE + Things to do
