Moriones Festival One of the Philippines most Colorful Festival
One of the most colorful festivals celebrated in the island of Marinduque is the Moriones Festival. Morion means "mask" or "visor," a part of the medieval Roman armor which covers the face. Moriones, on the other hand, refers to the masked and costumed penitents who march around the town for seven days searching for Longinus. This is a folk-religious festival that re-enacts the story of Longinus, a Roman centurion who was blind in one eye.
Legend has it that Longinus pierced the side of the crucified Christ. The blood that spurted forth touched his blind eye and fully restored his sight. This miracle converted Longinus to Christianity and earned the ire of his fellow centurions. The re-enactment reaches its climax when Longinus is caught and beheaded.
The festival is characterized by colorful Roman costumes, painted masks and helmets, and brightly-colored tunics. The towns of Boac and Mogpog in the island of Marinduque become one gigantic stage.
Did you know that
Morion means mask, which is part of the medieval Roman centurion’s helmet. Moriones are the masked penitents who take part in the reenactment of the legend of Longinus.
How to get there
You can get to Marinduque via air or water transportation. You can choose any of the ferries that are Marinduque-bound. Philippine Airlines also provides air transportation at the national airport in Gasan.
send a wonderful gift to your friends and relatives in the Philippines.
PINOY TRIVIA
The Philippine Basketball
Association is Asia's premier and the world's second
oldest professional league. [more
trivia]
TRULY PINOY
KALESA
The kalesa or karitela is a horse-driven carriage that was introduced during the 18th century. It was used by Spanish officials and the nobles as a means of transportation.
[more]
