Daraga to mark 300thyr of Cagsawa’s history

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

IN Daraga, Albay, the local government will commemorate the 300th anniversary of Cagsawa church, destroyed by the deadliest eruption of Mayon Volcano 210 years ago, tomorrow.

Mayor Carlwyn “Awin” Baldo announced that Daraga will embark on a historic feat by celebrating 300 years of Cagsawa through the Cagsawa Festival 2024. The festival aims to showcase the colorful history, culture, and heritage of the province, a national cultural treasure.

“This event promotes cultural diversity, community engagement, and fosters a sense of pride in our shared heritage. We will pay homage to this momentous event with a wide array of activities honoring the history inherited from our forefathers,” said Baldo.

The theme for this year is “Daraga’s Legacy: 300 Years of Culture and History,” highlighting the unyielding spirit and resilience of the Daragueños and the Albayanos.

The Daraga Festival 2024 opening coincided with the 210th anniversary of the Plinian eruption of Mayon Volcano on February 1, 1814, the deadliest eruption in history.

“We encourage Daragueños and Bicolano people to be part of the program presenting the stories of our local Daragueños, imparting knowledge about the importance of history in present culture and vision,” he added.

Bicolano historian Dr. Danilo “Danny” Gerona highlighted the significance of the 300-year celebration, remembering the ingenuity of ancestors that resulted in the enduring structure of Cagsawa church.

The Cagsawa Ruins, declared a national cultural treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines in December 2015, stands as a mute witness to Mount Mayon’s deadliest explosion on February 1, 1814.

Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda noted that the site symbolizes people’s resilience to survive calamities and climate change.

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines considers Cagsawa Ruins an important protected area due to its significance in the cultural history of Albay. With the declaration of Cagsawa Ruins, Albay now has three national cultural treasures.

Historically, Mayon’s worst eruption occurred on February 1, 1814, burying Cagsawa Church and resulting in the famous belfry. Today, the Cagsawa Ruins Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Albay, managed by the municipal government of Daraga.”