via Philippine News Agency, 08 April 2021: Interest in where the first mass (a Christian ritual) was celebrated has escalated due to the quincentennial celebrations. Several sites claim to be location of the first mass, and recently a lawsuit has been filed over the official narrative.
A book backing claims that this city was the site of the first Catholic mass in the country launched Wednesday afternoon at the Balanghai Hotel here.
The book “Beyond the Pale: Limasawa Hoax, A Tragedy in Philippine History” is authored by Dr. Potenciano R. Malvar.
Malvar is a local historian and a long-time advocate in recognizing Butuan City as the site where the first Easter Sunday mass in the country was celebrated in 1521.
Representatives from various sectors, including the religious, academe, and the business community, graced the launch.
In his message, Malvar acknowledged the support of advocates working to have Butuan officially recognized by the national government as the site of the historic religious rite in 1521.
Source: Book backing claims Butuan as site of 1st mass launched | Philippine News Agency
