Spanish-era stone crosses are being found not only in Lucban but also in the nearby city of Tayabas which are testaments to the province’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
LUCBAN, Quezon – RESIDENTS of Barangay Mahabang Parang in this town said they have found yet another relic of the town’s rich history: a rare stone Cross dating from the 17th century.
The stone cross was discovered in Makaingin Creek that connects the Maapon River and Barangay Kabatete.
Spanish-era stone crosses, measuring from a few inches to 2 meters, have been found not only in Lucban but also in the nearby city of Tayabas.
According to local folklore, these crosses are believed to be homes of nature spirits which were turned to stone crosses after the Spaniards arrived in the Philippines.
Some residents also believe the stones were supposed to be talismans from evil creatures such as “aswang,” “kapre” or “maligno.”
‘Abandoned’
Measuring about 13 feet by 8 feet, local historians said this particular cross is unique because of its size.
According to Councilor Cornelio Raneses, a local historian in Lucban, the Spaniards ordered the locals to excavate adobe from the river to make a cross.
“Batay sa mga saling-kuwento mula sa ating mga ninuno, ang krus na ito ay sapilitang ipinaukit ng mga Kastila sa mga taga-Lucban upang itayo sa tuktok ng simbahan,” Raneses said.
“Sa kadahilanang nagkaroon ng malaking bitak ang gitnang bahagi ng krus kung kaya't hindi ipinagpatuloy ang pagkuha dito at sa halip ay iniwan na lamang,” he added.
Also near this area are some pits from which adobe was also used in the church, the historian said.
The stone cross was gradually damaged due to the lack of knowledge of some fellow Lucbanin regarding the preservation of cultural resources.
Raneses said that he will help the barangay in crafting an ordinance declaring Makaingin Creek area as a historical heritage site.
Barangay Mahabang Parang said that the barangay is on its way to make Makaingin Creek a tourism destination for students and history enthusiasts.
“Isasaayos ang kalsada papunta sa ilog upang mas mabilis ang paglalakbay patungo sa batong krus at patuloy na makikipag-ugnayan ang barangay sa lokal na pamahalaan na mabuksan ito sa turismo ng sa gayon ay makapagbigay ng hanapbuhay sa ating mga kabarangay,” barangay secretary Rica Villaverde told OpinYon Quezonin.
Tags: #OpinYonQuezonin, #features, #Lucban, #stonecross