STI COLLEGE STA.

CRUZ
A.Y. 2023-2024

READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

MAJAYJAY

SUBMITTED BY:
Argañosa, Anthonette
Breganza, Kasufea
Celino, Shaine
Dela Cruz, Reyniel
Manalo, Lawren
Medua, Ceryn
Mia, Sean Calvin
Pagkatotohan, Athaliah

THM101

SUBMITTED TO:
Ms. Angelica Mae Polecena
Local History

According to the Pilipinas Today Page, 2015. Majayjay is a municipality located at the foot
of Mount Banahaw in the province of Laguna. Indigenous residents used to call it Malay Barangay.
The Spanish colonial government made it a town in 1578. The popularity of this town grew
instantly during the Spanish period. It's location at the foot of the mountain gave it an abundant
supply of fresh mountain spring water. Many European elites visited the town because of its fresh
air and the scenic view of Mount Banahaw.

Majayjay is home to one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the Philippines, Saint
Gregory the Great Parish Church. It was built in 1575 through forced labor by the town folks.
Majayjay is also home to the Taytay Falls. Others call it the Majayjay Falls or even Imelda Falls,
because ex-First Lady Imelda Marcos financed the promotion of tourism in this place. In Jose
Rizal's novel El Filibusterismo, spoke of an old Spanish bridge made of stone in the year 1851.
The Puente de Capriccio was initiated by Father Del Moral. But the priest was a cruel one; anyone
who did not labor in the construction would later be punished by whipping the buttocks. The bridge
is still standing today, crossing the Olla River. It is called Tulay Pige by modern Majayjayenos.

As to how Malay Barangay got its name, Majayjay, residents assume that Spaniards found
it difficult to pronounce Malay Barangay. Early colonizers may have shortened it to Malay-ay,
until it became Majayjay.

According to Wikipedia. In 1571, The Spanish colonial government made Majayjay into a
town, which at the time was one of the most populated settlements in the newly founded province.
It competed with Bay and Pagsanjan during the selection of the province's capital.

Botocan Falls and the town's scenery were uniquely famous, which led to many Europeans
and wealthy natives from Manila frequently visiting the town. However, the road to Malay
Barangay was considered to be tough. Guests have to be ferried from Manila through the Pasig
River to Laguna de Bay. Land travel began by mounting on horses through a path in the forest,
and then to be borne by natives in hammocks on the way up to Malay Barangay.
 Immediately after the conversion of the natives of Malay Barangay, a makeshift church
was built near the May-it River, but it was destroyed by a fire in 1578. Believers built a new church
made of bamboo and cogon thatch, however, another fire destroyed it again. A stone church was
then built, which was also burnt down. In spite of the repeated incidents of fire, the image of their
Patron Saint, San Gregorio Papa Magno survived. Through the efforts of Padre José de
Puertollano, contributions enforced by parishioners, and forced labor of the natives, a new church
was built in 1730, taking nineteen years.

According to Majayjay Mayor Romeo Amorado in the Philstar, 2023. Not many people
know that there is another destination in the south of Manila that can feel like Tagaytay or Baguio
most of the year. Once upon a time, Majayjay, Laguna, was known as the summer capital of the
Philippines, especially during the Spanish colonial era. During the Spanish period, this was the
summer capital of the Philippines because the climate was very cold. Majayjay is one of the early
Spanish settlements. It was discovered in 1571, 50 years after the Philippines was first discovered
by the Spaniards. And right after the Spaniards came, Majayjay was among the towns where they
built a church. Saint Gregory the Great Parish Church was built in 1571. The stone church still
stands today, with its majestic altar looking grand with the figures of saints in the background. It
also has a pulpit, and its long aisle serves as a romantic path for the bride to walk on. A part of it
now serves as a school.

In this quaint town also stands another historic structure that is seemingly forgotten by even
locals. Most of them know it as Tulay Pige but the unfinished bridge is Puente del Capricho. Built
in 1851, the bridge is built over Olla River. Dr. Jose Rizal mentioned it in the first chapter of "El
Filibusterismo," where he said about how the bridge was built by the hands of the Filipinos who
were ordered whipped by the Spanish friar who oversaw its construction.

Historical and Heritage Sites

Puente del Capricho o Tulay na Pige

According to Mario Alvaro Limos, 2020. In the quiet town of Majayjay, Laguna, there is
an old bridge that was never finished, but its beauty and elegance were so legendary that it found
its way in the pages of Jose Rizal’s El Filibusterismo. The locals, however, speak of an old bridge
called Tulay Pigi, which is directly translated as Butt Bridge. According to the locals, their
grandparents used to tell them stories about the old bridge and the angry friar who built it. Today,
if you ask locals about Puente del Capricho, the name will not ring a bell even among those with
the oldest memories of the past. It would seem like it has been lost to history.
The Puente del Capricho is a bridge build by the Padre Victoriano Del Moral in 1851, This
bridge is known by the residence of Majayjay as Tulay Pige. This bridge is very historical because
the Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal mentioned this bridge in his second Novel El
filibusterismo, This one arch bridge is still standing until now. This bridge is not finished because
the intelligent people in Manila before says that this bridge is not strong, But it is still stand until
century, The residence of Majayjay build a foot bridge to pass the unfinished bridge.

St. Gregory the Great Parish Church

According to Jason Tiango, Majayjay is home to one of the oldest Roman Catholic
churches in the Philippines, the Saint Gregory the Great Parish Church. It was built in 1575 through
forced labor to the town folks. Inside the church are antique statues of saints brought by the
Spaniards in the early era of propagating Christianity. It is somehow true to every church built in
the country that it experienced arson (1576, 1606 and 1660) but later undergone reconstructions
and rehabilitation works. Atop the roof of the church is seen the scenic view of Laguna de Bay.
A century later, the stone church was destroyed by typhoon and was repaired in 1839, 1842
and 1848.The roof was replaced with iron in 1892 under the supervision of Gregorio Platero.
During the American occupation, the church served as headquarters of the American army. Due
to damage brought about by the Spanish and American revolution, the church was again repaired
in 1912. In 1954, the church was placed under the government's rehabilitation program with the
help of the National Conservation Society of the Philippines. In 2001, it was declared as a Natural
Cultural Treasure by the National Museum

Rizal Monument
According to Philstar, 2019. The St. John the Baptist church and plaza sit at the highest
point of what essentially is a plateau on which the town was built. The plaza is half a hectare in
area and occupies two town blocks. This town also uses a clearly defined grid, albeit a third of the
size of Pila’s because of the narrowness of the plateau. The church is a masterpiece in brick and
has classic Philippine baroque proportions and detailing.
The town hall sits to one side of the plaza, although it is now covered from the plaza by a
row of footwear shops. Slippers are what the town is famous for. The main shopping streets for
these items as well as local sweets have been festooned with colorful umbrellas in lieu of bunting,
a practice that apparently started in Agueda, Portugal. This made shopping in the hot summer sun
actually pleasant. After a short lunch in Liliw, we motored to the next town, Majayjay, to continue
our visita. Like Liliw, the town sits at an elevation (about a thousand meters above sea level). It is
noted for its waterfalls and the St. Gregory the Great church.
The Treasure of Majayjay Art

This art is called the “Old Presidencia” by Wilfredo “Yeye” Calderon art made in
Watercolor Paper. This holding an art exhibit featuring Calderon’s masterpieces, numbering some
30 plus by now. This art exhibit will be held on 25 February 2023 at Latriccia’s Resort Hotel in
Majayjay. Part of the proceeds will fund the numerous projects of the Parish. This encourage all
art enthusiasts in Laguna and in the Philippines and around the world to view and/or have a piece
of Majayjay treasure in their homes. You will not only get good energy from the paintings; you
will also be making Majayjayens happy through the pastoral and social work of Msgr. Mel
Barcenas. For more details about the fund-raising art exhibition, please visit the Facebook page
named “Yaman ng Majayjay”

Kapitan Don Pedro Origuel Y Osorio Statue

 According to Pinoy history article, 2010. Today, Captain Origuel is considered a "Bayani
Ng Majayjay." A barangay and a street is named for him in the town. Interestingly enough, my
Lolos and Lolas on both sides of the family live in Barangay Origuel on Origuel Street. The first
soldier was Andres Conejos, my great, great, grandfather, the second son of the "cabeza de
barangay." The second soldier was his commanding officer, Captain Pedro Origuel. Captain
Origuel graduated from Ateneo in 1890 and became an infantry captain in 1896. Dada Andres was
part of Capt. Origuel's company.
My Lolo told me the story about two Philippine soldiers from Majayjay, Laguna during
the Philippine American War in 1899. He told it to me when I was 15 years old and since then I
did some research. In March 1899, General Juan Cailles ordered Captain Origuel and his company
to Laguna's capital, Santa Cruz, to guard the city's resources against the Americans. In American
Major General Henry Lawton's report, he said that Santa Cruz is "the richest and most important
city of La Laguna Province and is the outlet for the produce of the rich country to the south and
southeast. The insurgents were reported here in force and full of confidence.

The Ordoveza House

According to Allan M. Sembrano, The Oldest house in Luzon and the second oldest in the
Philippines. “The longevity of the Ordoveza house as well as its continuous possession by the
same family for two and a half centuries,” writes Santiago, “constitutes a rare occurrence in the
Philippines, a country which has suffered since time immemorial from many a calamity both
natural and manmade.” Last year, a book about the house and the family was published. “Casa
Ordoveza: The Story of an Illustrious Filipino Clan” was authored by Santiago.

Casa Ordoveza
According to Luciano P.R Santiago, The Villaraza owned by Dr. Cecilio and Doña
Magdalena was one of the most beautiful houses in Majayjay, Laguna during the American time.
It is 87 years old and considered as one of the heritage houses in Majayjay. Several filipino films
like "Tatlong Taong Walang Dios" at "Maalala Mo Kaya" were shot in this house. The TV
advertisement of Carlsberg beer in the 80's was likewise shot in this house with the theme "Fiesta
ng Bayan."
The "royal road" or camino real of old Majayjay passes by the south gate of the majestic
church of Pope St. Gregory the Great and links it with the luminous chapel of Our Lady of Portería,
which beckons pilgrims to the heart of the town. Two rows of venerable houses flank this lordly
street like wornout beads of an ancient rosary whose bejeweled pendant is the cruciform church
itself. The second house behind the apse of the church is the Casa Ordoveza, the oldest un-
remodeled, rather dilapidated, house in the town and most probably the second oldest house in the
Philippines. Only the former Jesuit residence in Cebú, which bears the year 1730 on one of its
interior walls, is known to be older.
The Old Presidencia
According to Cobrado, Regino M., Majayjay's former presidency was built in the 1830s
and formed of adobe and lime, the Majayjay Presidencia Ruins have been a memory for a century.
It's still possible to transform it into a building that will benefit the neighborhood. Adaptive reuse
is a viable project. The Majayjay Presidencia Ruins, a memory over the century, was built around
1830s and made from adobe and lime.

Nuestra Señora Dela Porteria (Grotto)

According to Majayjay Website, The journey to Majayjay today is less complicated.
Passed by the narrow roads of Nagcarlan and Liliw, then upon crossing the centuries-old bridge
spanning the ethereal Olla River, Majayjay is just a few minutes away. Beneath the ancient bridge
are children bathing and women doing their laundry, while seated midstream on the rocks
surrounded by gurgling spring water. An empty grotto is situated near the riverbank, which is
probably where the larger-than-life statue of Nuestra Seora de Porteria used to stand. The statue is
located in another grotto at ground level, a few meters above the original. From the Virgin’s grotto,
the road climbs up sloppy hills, twisting and turning, until it reaches the town of Majayjay.

I love Majayjay Signage

According to Majayjay Website, I Love Majayjay signage is located at Brgy. Coralao,
Majayjay, Laguna. It is placed on the highway of our town making it one of the most notable
landmarks of Majayjay. You'll have to pass by it before you can enter Majayjay's town proper.
Most of the tourists visiting Majayjay stop by this area to take some photos as their souvenirs that
they visited our town.

Kabilang Ilog Hanging Bridge

According to Majayjay Website, Kabilang-Ilog Hanging Bridge is an old hanging bridge
that connects the barangay of Sta. Catalina and other Barangays of Kabilang-Ilog district (Pook,
Balanak, Banti, and Burol). It is a silent witness on the hardwork and perseverance of Majayjayeño
farmers throughout the years.
Native Customs
Native customs encompass vibrant traditions such as religious festivals with processions,
symbolizing unity, and the preservation of cultural heritage through practices.These customs
reflect the rich cultural identity of Majayjay, blending religious observances, community
gatherings, and a commitment to preserving ancestral practices.
Festivals
Majayjay likely hosts vibrant festivals celebrating its cultural roots, possibly featuring
traditional dances, music, and colorful parades.
Anilinang Festival

Foam Party/Street Parties: Night time events featuring live music, dancing, and socializing.
Many towns organize street parties where residents and visitors can celebrate together.

Perya: It's not uncommon to have this in every Festival, Perya add up to enjoy the Anilinang
Festival where people can enjoy various games and entertainment.
Beauty Pageants: It's not uncommon for Festival to not include beauty pageants, showcasing local
beauty and talent.

Majayjay Day
Dance/Sing Contests: Add an element of excitement and friendly competition to the Majayjay
Day Celebration.
Religious Celebrations: Expect events related to religious traditions, with processions,
ceremonies, and gatherings at local churches.

Pagdiriwang ng Flores de Mayo: It involves month-long festivities dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Activities may include processions, beauty pageants, and floral offerings, showcasing religious
devotion and community unity.
Fiesta ng Bayan
It is a common celebration in Majayjay, typically held in honor of the patron saint of the
community. These are deeply rooted in Filipino culture and are marked by various activities,
religious ceremonies, processions and During a Fiesta ng Bayan, you can expect that:
Religious Masses, novenas, and processions dedicated to the town's patron saint. These religious
activities are an essential part of the fiesta ng Bayan.

Parades: Colorful parades featuring street marching bands and adorned with decorations.
Paghahandog ng Alay: This is an act of offering symbolic gifts or offerings during religious
ceremonies or special occasions.This is a gesture of gratitude and devotion accompanied by
prayers or rituals.

Pabasa: It’s a traditional practice of "Pabasa ng Pasyon" during Holy Week, where family
members take turns reading the story of Christ's Passion. This is a religious custom that strengthens
faith bonds.
Alay Lakad: This tradition involves a community or group coming together for a purposeful walk,
often as an act of penance, or sacrifice.

Kumpisalang Bayan: A communal penance service This practice involves a collective confession
of sins, emphasizing communal repentance and spiritual reflection.
Simbang Gabi: Simbang Gabi, a series of nine Masses traditionally held in the Philippines before
Christmas, is likely celebrated in Majayjay as part of the town's Christmas traditions. The
community gathers in the early hours of the morning to attend these Masses, reflecting a blend of
religious devotion and cultural practices during the festive season.
Family Traditions
Experience family-centric customs, such as celebrations of milestones or specific rituals
observed within households.

Family Reunions: Organizing regular family reunions, providing an opportunity for relatives to
reconnect, share stories, and strengthen family bonds.

Pamamanhikan: The traditional "Pamamanhikan" is a formal meeting between the families of

engaged couples. It involves discussing wedding plans, getting to know each other, and seeking
the blessings of both families.
Bisperas: Participating in activities on the eve of significant celebrations, like New Year's Eve or
Christmas Eve. This one could involve family dinners, midnight masses, or traditional practices.
Respect for Elders: In Majayjay, "pag mano" likely follows the general Filipino custom where
individuals express their respect to elders by taking the elder's hand and bringing it to their
forehead. This gesture signifies reverence and is often accompanied by a verbal greeting and, at
times, a slight bow. The practice is a cultural tradition deeply rooted in Filipino society,
emphasizing respect for elders and familial ties.
Saying “Po at Opo”: In Majayjay, using "po" and "opo" is a sign of respect commonly employed
when speaking to elders or authority figures, embodying the town's cultural emphasis on courtesy.

Boodle Fight the communal food feas: A "boodle fight" is a communal Filipino feast where a
variety of food is laid out on banana leaves, and participants eat with their hands. In Majayjay, this
tradition likely fosters community bonding, emphasizing camaraderie and the joy of sharing meals
in a festive and informal setting.
Saying “Ay”: In Majayjay, the use of "ay" at theend of a sentence in Filipino is likely employed
similarly to the broader Filipino cultural context, emphasizing or clarifying information. This
linguistic structure is part of the town's communication style, reflecting precision or emphasis in
conveying thoughts.

Pista ng Patay: All Saints' Day All families may gather for special meals, visit cemeteries to clean
the graves, and participate in religious activities honoring the deceased.
Tabi-tabi Po: The practice of saying "tabi-tabi po" (excuse me) when passing through natural or
wooded areas is a common superstition aimed at showing respect to unseen spirits that may dwell
in those places.

Religions And Their Ceremonies

Majayjay served as the site of early Catholicism in Laguna.The Augustinians first came in
1568. Along with five Augustinian priests and Juan de Salcedo, nephew of Miguel López de
Legazpi, they started to evangelize the sceptical townsmen led by Gat Yantok.In 1571, the
Franciscans established a mission town with Don Gaspar Osorio, Agustín Osorio, Juan Osorio,
Juan de Mendoza, Ventura Mag-olop, Aman Lingasan and Martín Siasip. The first church was
constructed by locals in 1575 near the May-it river and was made of nipa and bamboo and was
later burned in 1576. In 1578, Franciscans Juan de Plasencia and Diego Oropesa started to
evangelize the town. A church, still of nipa and bamboo, was built that same year under the
patronage of Saint Gregory the Great.Due to the lack of religious men, the first parish priest of
Majajay, Antonio Nombela was only assigned in 1594.Under his pastorship, a long robe worn by
wives to the church, called lambón was first used in the Philippines.In 1599, the Superior Gobierno
authorized the construction of a stone church. While awaiting its construction, the makeshift
church was burned in 1606. Majayjay also served as infirmary for the old religious men until 1606
before it was transferred to Lumban. Construction of the stone church began in 1616 and was
completed in 1649 with the help of Maestro de Campo Don Buenaventura de Mendoza.The church
was again partially burned in 1660.Rehabilitation started in 1711 and finished in 1730 by 14,000
people on forced labor and a rehabilitation cost of $26,000 by Jose de Puertollano.Instead of
rebuilding the church, Puertollano decided to sandwich the ruins between two layers of brick
resulting in an unusual wall thickness of 3 metres (9.8 ft). It took 19 years for the people of
Majayjay to complete the church which was made of volcanic tuff with red tiles and prime lumber.
On completion in 1730, the church became the biggest in the Philippines. A century later, the stone
church was destroyed by a typhoon and was repaired in 1839, 1842 and 1848.The roof was
replaced with galvanized iron in 1892 under the supervision of Gregorio Platero. During the
American occupation, the church served as headquarters of the American army. Due to damage
brought about by the Spanish and American revolution, the church was again repaired in 1912. In
1954,

Churches

St. Gregory The Great Church

The San Gregorio Magno Church or Church of St. Gregory the Great has been rebuilt four
times and is recognized by the National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure The first Church
of St. Gregory the Great in Majayjay was built in 1573 out of nipa and bamboo. When it burned
down three years later, it was reconstructed, then burned again in 1606. After that it was rebuilt
out of stone, but was damaged from several fires in 1616, 1660, and 1711. Between 1711 and
1734, the current version of the church was constructed by Father Jose de Puertollano as a labor
of love. Repairs since then were conducted during the mid-19th century and the roof was replaced
entirely with galvanized iron in 1892.
A church, still of nipa and bamboo, was built that same year under the patronage of Saint
Gregory the Great. Due to the lack of religious men, the first parish priest of Majajay, Antonio
Nombela was only assigned in 1594. Under his pastorship, a long robe worn by wives to the
church, called lambón was first used in the Philippines. In 1599, the Superior Gobierno authorized
the construction of a stone church. While awaiting its construction, the makeshift church was
burned in 1606Majayjay also served as infirmary for the old religious men until 1606 before it was
transferred to Lumban. Construction of the stone church began in 1616 and was completed in 1649
with the help of Maestro de Campo Don Buenaventura de Mendoza.
The church was again partially burned in 1660. Rehabilitation started in 1711 and finished
in 1730 by 14,000 people on forced labor and a rehabilitation cost of $26,000 by Jose de
Puertollano. Instead of rebuilding the church, Puertollano decided to sandwich the ruins between
two layers of brick resulting in an unusual wall thickness of 3 meters (9.8 ft). It took 19 years for
the people of Majayjay to complete the church which was made of volcanic tuff with red tiles and
prime lumber. On completion in 1730, the church became the biggest in the Philippines.
Ceremonies:

• Matrimony
• Eucharist
• Baptism
• Death Ceremony
• Liturgy
• Confirmation
• Communion
• Sacrament Of Penance
• Sagremma Festival
• Fiest of the Saint Gregory the Great
Jesus Is Lord Church
According to The Jesus Is Lord Church (JIL) began in 1978 when Eddie Villanueva, a
former atheist, activist, and professor, gathered with 15 Bible study members at the Polytechnic
University of the Philippines (then known as Philippine College of Commerce). As professor of
Economics and Finance at the university, Villanueva preached the Gospel to his students. From 15
students, JIL has grown to over 1 million members and has planted churches all over the
Philippines in Majayjay Laguna and in other countries in neighboring Asian countries, Europe,
Australasia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa and. JIL is also reaching many millions
more through its TV, radio, literature, video ministries, ICare, the JIL Christian Schools/JIL
Colleges Foundation, Inc. and through the JIL Church Worldwide celebrated its 39th anniversary
in Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, last October 27, 2017 with the theme "Know Your
God”
Ceremonies:

• Spreading the Words of God

• Worship
• Matrimony
The Seventh-day Adventist Church
Had its roots in the Millerite movement of the 1830s to the 1840s, during the period of the
Second Great Awakening, and was officially founded in 1863. Prominent figures in the early
church included Hiram Edson, Ellen G. White, her husband James Springer White, Joseph Bates,
and J. N. Andrews. Over the ensuing decades the church expanded from its original base in New
England to become an international organization. Significant developments such the reviews
initiated by evangelicals Donald Barnhouse and Walter Martin, in the 20th century led to its
recognition as a Christian denomination.
Ceremonies:

• Matrimony
• Eucharist
• Baptism
• Death Ceremony
• Liturgy
• Confirmation
• Communion
• Sacrament of Penance
Nuestra Seniora De La Porteria Church
The journey to Majayjay today is less complicated. Passed by the narrow roads of
Nagcarlan and Liliw, then upon crossing the centuries-old bridge spanning the ethereal Olla River,
Majayjay is just a few minutes away. Beneath the ancient bridge are children bathing and women
doing their laundry, while seated midstream on the rocks surrounded by gurgling spring water. An
empty grotto is situated near the riverbank, which is probably where the larger-than-life statue of
Nuestra Seora de Porteria used to stand. The statue is located in another grotto at ground level, a
few meters above the original. From the Virgin’s grotto, the road climbs up sloppy hills, twisting
and turning, until it reaches the town of Majayjay. The chapel of Nuestra Señora de la Porteria
(Our Lady of the Gate) also known as the Ermita chapel was originally constructed as a tribunal
during the Spanish period. The image of the Nuestra Señora de la Porteria, which was brought to
Majayjay by Spanish missionaries in 1759, was enshrined in the former court building in 1760.
Ceremonies:

• Worship the Nuestra Seniora De La Porteria

• Fiest of the Virgin La Poteria
The Ermita Chapel

According to the depicted Philippine architecture, The Majayjay Ermita Chapel (Del
Rosario, Majayjay, Laguna.is an architectural work completed prior to 15 December 1972; it is a
sculpture, monument, or other artistic work created before 15 December 1972 and was not
registered, or an artistic work created before 1942 and which its copyright was not renewed; and/or
it is an architecture completed on or after 15 December 1972 or an another type of artistic work
not meeting the second criterion, whose author or last-surviving author (e.g. the architect or
sculptor) has been deceased for 50 years or more (therefore its copyright protection expired). Back
then, the Nuestra Señora dela Porteria Chapel was located at Brgy. Origuel, Majayjay, Laguna was
once a tribunal. This holy place houses the image of Nuestra Señoras dela Porteria.

Ceremonies:

• Worship
• Fiest of the La Del Rosario
• Mass of the Virgin Del Rosario

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

It is a Christian church build in Majayjay located at Lucban rd, Majayjay Laguna. It is a
restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ as originally established by the Savior in the New
Testament of the Bible. Latter-day Saints believe God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to save all
humanity from death and their individual sins.
Ceremonies:

• Mass every 9 am – 6pm

 • Worship God
• Gatherings

Nuestra Señora del Pilar (via Dolorosa)

This holy place of Nuestra Señora del Pilar is located at Brgy. Suba, Majayjay, Laguna.
SUBA, MAJAYJAY (THE PILLARS, OCTOBER 23, 2023) - This October 22, 2023, was led by
Rev.Fr. Rey Antonio Velasco inducting the new members of the Pilares Unity Association in
Nuestra Señora del Pilar Parish in Brgy Suba Majayjay, Laguna. The pilares organization is one
of the church organizations in the parish of Nuestra Señora del Pilar where their work is focused
on serving the church as well as providing support to every work especially on the feast of the
Blessed Virgin Del Pilar where it is the highlight of their service.
Ceremonies:

• The Preparation of the Gift

• The Eucharist Prayer
• Feast of the Virgin Del Pilar
• The Communion Rite
The Chapel of Sacred Heart of Jesus
It is located on the northern part of Majayjay particularly on Brgy. Tanawan, Majayjay,
Laguna that used to be one of the largest barrio or barangay of the town. The current chapel is
facing the Mt. Banahaw and overlooking at the St. Gregory the Great Parish Church in the town.
It was once made out of pear trees and adobe and the present church made of stone was done before
the end of 1800. The image of Sacred Heart of Jesus which is the Patron Saint of the church, and
the barangay is being visited not only by the locals but also from the people in the neighboring
town of Majayjay. It is believed that the image of Sacred Heart of Jesus in half body was older the
stone church itself.
Every 12th day of May a lot of devotees go to the church to join the annual “Ahunan sa
Tanauan”. It is the day where the children of this holy place show their devotion to the Sacred
Heart of Jesus.

Ceremonies:

• Devotion to the Sacred Heart Of Jesus

• Ahunan sa Tanauan Mass
Research Argument

Researching Majayjay’s local history is not just an academic pursuit; it is a crucial

endeavour that serves as a gateway to understanding the town’s roots and identity. By delving into
the archives and oral traditions, we unearth narratives of resilience, adaptation, and the endurance
of Majayjay through different eras, laying the foundation for a profound connection to the past.
The investigation of historical and heritage sites in Majayjay goes beyond mere
exploration; it is an active commitment to preserving the town’s cultural legacy. Each ancestral
house, aged church, and architecturally significant structure encapsulates stories that echo through
time. This endeavour is not just about the preservation of physical structures but about sustaining
the intangible essence that defines Majayjay.
Exploring native customs and traditions becomes a testament to the vibrancy of Majayjay’s
community. The rituals, ceremonies, and folk practices encapsulate the living history of the town,
a cultural tapestry woven through generations. Researching these customs is not just an academic
exercise; it is a pledge to ensure that the diverse threads of Majayjay’s identity are not lost but
celebrated and passed on.
Saint Gregory the Great Parish Church Anilinang Festival
 Investigating religious places and ceremonies in Majayjay is not a detached inquiry; it is
an acknowledgment of the integral role faith plays in shaping the community. The churches,
shrines, and religious events are not isolated entities but integral components in the town’s
narrative. Understanding this connection is vital to appreciating the profound influence of religion
on Majayjay’s cultural and social fabric.
Further enriching our understanding of Majayjay’s history involves acknowledging the
intertwined relationship between the town and its natural surroundings. Exploring the ecological
aspects of Majayjay, such as its lush landscapes, rivers, and biodiversity, unveils a narrative of
coexistence and dependency. The local flora and fauna, as well as sustainable practices developed
over time,contribute to the ecological tapestry that has sustained Majayjay and shaped its
inhabitants’ way of life.

Old Presidencia

In addition, examining the economic evolution of Majayjay provides insights into the
town’s resilience and adaptability. The historical development of local industries, trade routes, and
economic practices mirrors the dynamic nature of Majayjay’s growth. By understanding the
economic underpinnings, we gain a holistic perspective on the forces that have shaped the town’s
prosperity and challenges throughout different periods.
The exploration of educational institutions and intellectual pursuits in Majayjay adds
another layer to the town’s narrative. Uncovering the history of schools, libraries, and centres of
learning unveils the commitment of the community to knowledge and intellectual development.
This facet of Majayjay’s history demonstrates how education has been a cornerstone in shaping
not only individual lives but also the collective mindset of the town.
In conclusion, the comprehensive exploration of Majayjay’s local history, historical and
heritage sites, native customs, and religious practices is not a mere scholarly pursuit. It is an active
endeavor to preserve, promote, and celebrate the unique identity of Majayjay, Laguna. By doing
so, we contribute to fostering an enduring appreciation for the rich heritage that defines this town,
ensuring that its cultural tapestry continues to thrive for generations to come.

Rizal Monument

The positioning of St. John the Baptist church and plaza at the highest point of Majayjay’s
plateau is not merely a geographic circumstance; it is a deliberate elevation that symbolizes the
town’s elevated cultural and historical significance. This strategic placement, coupled with a well-
defined grid, reflects a thoughtful town planning that echoes a sense of order and purpose in
Majayjay’s development.
The architectural marvel of St. John the Baptist church, described as a masterpiece in brick
with classic Philippine baroque proportions and detailing, stands as a testament to Majayjay’s
commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. This church, a focal point of the town, becomes
more than a religious edifice; it becomes a living artefact, embodying the intricate craftsmanship
and historical resonance that defines Majayjay.
The integration of the town hall beside the plaza, though now somewhat obscured by
footwear shops, underscores the historical continuity of Majayjay’s civic life. The shift to footwear
shops, particularly the renowned slippers for which the town is famous, reflects the town’s
adaptive spirit, intertwining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary commerce.
The use of colourful umbrellas adorning the main shopping streets, inspired by a practice
originating in Agueda, Portugal, reveals Majayjay’s unique flair for blending tradition with
practicality. This innovative approach not only adds a vibrant aesthetic but also transforms the
shopping experience, showcasing the town’s adaptability and creativity.
Majayjay’s elevation, noted for its waterfalls and the St. Gregory the Great church,
positions the town as not just a geographical landmark but a destination of natural and cultural
wonders. The mention of waterfalls hints at a potential for eco-tourism, offering a dual allure of
scenic beauty and historical exploration.
In conclusion, Majayjay emerges as a town that conscientiously weaves its cultural,
historical, and commercial threads into a tapestry that is both resilient and vibrant. The deliberate
choices in town planning, architectural preservation, adaptive commerce, and creative practices
reveal Majayjay as not just a point on the map but a living testament to the harmonious coexistence
of tradition and progress.

Puente del Capricho o Tulay na Pige

The Puente del Capricho, known locally as Tulay Pige, stands not only as a physical
structure in Majayjay but as a tangible link to the pages of Jose Rizal’s El Filibusterismo. Despite
its unfinished state, the bridge embodies a historical narrative that goes beyond its architectural
significance, representing a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the community.
 Built in 1851 by Padre Victoriano Del Moral, the Puente del Capricho became a focal point
in the town’s history. The fact that Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero, referenced this
bridge in his novel El Filibusterismo elevates its importance as a cultural landmark. The bridge’s
presence in literature connects Majayjay to a broader historical and literary context, making it a
source of local pride and identity.
The locals’ reference to the bridge as Tulay Pige, or Butt Bridge, adds a layer of folklore
and storytelling to its history. The tales of an angry friar attempting its construction create a vivid
image of the challenges faced during that era, contributing to the bridge’s mythical aura.
Despite the bridge being left unfinished due to concerns about its structural integrity, it has
stood the test of time, enduring for more than a century. This resilience reflects the craftsmanship
of its builders and challenges the initial doubts cast upon its strength. The fact that the residents of
Majayjay went on to construct a footbridge to traverse the unfinished structure further showcases
their resourcefulness and adaptability.
In essence, the Puente del Capricho, or Tulay Pige, is not merely a relic of the past; it is a
living testament to Majayjay’s historical narrative, resilience, and cultural identity. Its mention in
literature immortalizes it as more than just a physical bridge but as a symbol of the town’s
endurance and the stories that bind its people across generations. While the name Puente del
Capricho may have faded from local memory, the bridge itself remains a silent witness to the rich
tapestry of Majayjay’s history.
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