Moriones Festival

Moriones Festival is an annual event that is scheduled for the Holy Week, and whose focal point is culture and religion in the heart of the Philippines.

The festival is held on a beautiful island known as Marinduque, and which is easily regarded as the heartbeat of the Philippines. The unique name of the festival is derived from the armor worn by Roman soldiers. In the context of the Philippines’ festivals, however, the word makes reference to the locals who play dress-up adorning the costumes that Roman soldiers wore in past Biblical times.

History of Moriones Festival

Image courtesy of Ederic Eder

Since the island is home to mainly farmers and fishermen, these are the very same people who will showcase the performances on the streets. This unique form of street theatre is an interesting way to learn more about cultural nuances in the Philippines.

Interestingly, this has inspired different street performances across the country.

The Moriones Festival is just one of the events that happen during Holy Week in the Philippines. Other events during this time period are Senakulo, a theatrical performance that aims to reenact the Passion of Christ
, and Via Crucis, another performance that depicts Christ’s experience on his way to crucifixion.

Keep in mind that these events aren’t exclusive to the Filipino culture; they are present in all countries around the world where Catholicism is the dominant religion. But they differ from country to country, as a nation’s culture and tradition are crucial elements of them.

Now, back to the Moriones Festival – men and women wearing the Roman soldier masks are the Moriones. The name comes from the Morion helmets, which were worn in 16th and 17th century Spain.

The festival is dedicated to Longinus, a half-blind Roman soldier that supposedly pierced Christ in the side with his lance. Legend has it that, after he had pierced Christ, a drop of blood fell on his eye and he got his sight back. The miracle caused the Roman soldier to fully convert to Catholicism, which is why the Filipino people have an entire festival dedicated to him.

He is regarded as a saint in Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, as well as in some other Christian communions. Bear in mind that around 80% of the population in the Philippines are Roman Catholics, and religion is a very important part of their daily lives.

This becomes incredibly obvious during Semana Santa. You’d think with all the festival and performances that it would be a cheerful week, but it’s actually the opposite. Businesses close down, TV and radio stations go off the air, and the town streets are practically deserted. For religious people, this is a time of reflection. Semana Santa is the perfect time to pray, as God is most likely to fulfill your prayers during that period – or so they believe.

Image courtesy of Ederic Eder

Regardless of what your personal stance on religion is, you should visit the country during the Holy Week if you truly want to understand Filipino culture and tradition. Religion, and Roman Catholicism, in particular, is a big part of the people’s lives, and a crucial factor in understanding their ways. Just be respectful of the people and their beliefs, and keep an open mind if your personal opinions and beliefs differ from theirs.

The point of the Moriones Festival is not to have fun or dance all night long – if you’re more interested in that, consider attending other festival in the Philippines, like the SarBay or the Aliwan festivals. No, the point of the Moriones Festival is to celebrate Christ’s humility.

>Which doesn’t mean that the festival is solemn or depressing. The masks and the garb of Roman Soldiers are themselves works of art, especially with all the details in their design. And if you too ascribe to the Christian teachings, it could be an enlightening week for you as well.
The prime location of the festival means that visitors have the chance to tour the island’s most spectacular attractions. The heart-shaped island is encircled by beautiful islets, offering more than just a festival for a trip in this part of the country.

>One important note for tourists visiting the Philippines during the Holy Week is to stock up on everything. Most of the markets and stores are closed, so make sure that you have enough food and supplies handy to get you through this time.

Moriones Festival is a must-attend for anyone looking for a cultural trip right in the heart of one of the Philippines’ most fascinating tourist destinations, Luzon. Take the whole family with you to an exciting tourist destination, as well as make fun memories while at it.

You can also check out another festival, the Via Crucis Festival held on the same day at Cebu City.