History is not a mere recitation of past events; it's a dynamic field marked by inquiry,

interpretation, and storytelling. The history of the Philippines exemplifies this dynamism,
with its controversial debates over significant historical events. In particular, the ongoing
dispute surrounding the true claims of various historians, such as the location of the first
Mass, vividly illustrates the complexity and subjectivity inherent in historical narratives. This
essay delves into the definition of history, the controversy surrounding historical claims in the
Philippines, and the inherent subjectivity of history.

History is not static; it is an ongoing process of investigating and understanding the

past. It involves a critical examination and analysis of records and remnants from history.
While history is often viewed as a straightforward account of past events, it is, in reality, a
continually evolving interpretation of those events. One of the most contentious debates in
Philippine history revolves around the location of the first Mass. Different historians have
presented conflicting claims. Antonio Pigafetta, chronicler of Ferdinand Magellan's
expedition, stated that the first Mass took place on Easter Sunday, March 31, 1521, on the
island of "Mazaua." In contrast, Father Francisco Collin and Father Francisco Combés argued
that the first Mass occurred in Butuan, Agusan del Norte. This historical controversy extends
further as questions arise regarding the accuracy and reliability of these historical accounts.
Collin's account has faced criticism for its failure to explain how Magellan reached Butuan,
while Combés focuses on events related to the formal claim of the archipelago for the
Castilian Crown, omitting details of the first Mass. The controversy surrounding the first
Mass location in the Philippines underscores the subjectivity inherent in historical narratives.
History is not a rigid, unalterable record but an evolving interpretation influenced by various
factors. Limits of Historical Knowledge, Interpretation and Imagination, the distinction
between Original and Primary Sources, and the Unattainable Reconstruction of the past all
contribute to the subjectivity of historical knowledge. Understanding this subjectivity is
crucial for a more profound comprehension of shared history and cultural identity.

The controversy surrounding the location of the first Mass in the Philippines is not
just a historical dispute; it holds profound cultural and national significance. It affects how
Filipinos perceive their heritage and national identity, making it a deeply rooted matter.
Examining this controversy critically reminds us that history is not static; it is an ever-
evolving interpretation of the past. Understanding the complexities of historical narratives and
the role of subjectivity in shaping them is essential for a more profound comprehension of
shared history and cultural identity.