The Turumba Festival, celebrated annually in the town of Pakil in Laguna, is a vibrant and eagerly anticipated event dedicated to honoring the Blessed Virgin of Turumba. This festival holds immense significance for the locals, as it is regarded as one of the most prominent religious gatherings in the region. What sets this festival apart is its unique tradition of hosting nearly seven fiestas, each dedicated to commemorating one of the seven sorrows of Our Lady of Turumba. This rich cultural and religious tapestry not only deeply resonates with the residents but also attracts the curiosity and interest of visitors from both within the country and abroad, making it a captivating spectacle for all.
ABOVE: The Turumba Festival in Pakil, Laguna, is a vibrant, highly anticipated event dedicated to honoring the Blessed Virgin of Turumba, and is one of the region’s most significant religious gatherings.
ABOVE: The Turumba Festival in Pakil, Laguna, is a vibrant, highly anticipated event dedicated to honoring the Blessed Virgin of Turumba, and is one of the region’s most significant religious gatherings.
The revered figure at the center of this festival is the Our Lady of Sorrows of Turumba, known in Spanish as Nuestra Señora de los Dolores de Turumba and in Tagalog as Mahál na Iná ng Pitóng Hapis ng Turumba. This depiction of the Virgin Mary holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Pakil, Laguna, as it symbolizes their faith and devotion.
The term “turumba” finds its roots in the Tagalog phrase “natumba sa lakí ng tuwa” (“fell down in great joy”). This phrase reflects the profound emotions evoked by the festival, emphasizing the overwhelming joy and spiritual fulfillment experienced by the participants.
ABOVE: The term “turumba” comes from the Tagalog phrase “natumba sa lakí ng tuwa,” meaning “fell down in great joy,” highlighting the festival’s deep joy and spiritual fulfillment.
ABOVE: The term “turumba” comes from the Tagalog phrase “natumba sa lakí ng tuwa,” meaning “fell down in great joy,” highlighting the festival’s deep joy and spiritual fulfillment.
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ABOVE: This festival is unique for its seven fiestas, each honoring one of the seven sorrows of Our Lady of Turumba, captivating both locals and visitors.
ABOVE: This festival is unique for its seven fiestas, each honoring one of the seven sorrows of Our Lady of Turumba, captivating both locals and visitors.
The tradition of honoring the Our Lady of Turumba dates back to September 14, 1788, when the inaugural turumba in her honor was held. Since then, this annual celebration has continued to be a cherished part of the town’s cultural heritage, passing down from generation to generation.
ABOVE: The Our Lady of Sorrows of Turumba, a cherished symbol of faith and devotion in Pakil, Laguna, is honored at the heart of this festival.
ABOVE: The Our Lady of Sorrows of Turumba, a cherished symbol of faith and devotion in Pakil, Laguna, is honored at the heart of this festival.
The iconic image of Our Lady of Sorrows of Turumba is a poignant portrayal of Mary’s suffering, depicted in a 9 by 11 inches (23 by 28 cm) oil painting on canvas. Her anguished expression, wrought by the dagger piercing her heart, serves as a powerful reminder of her sacrifice and compassion. Today, this iconic depiction is preserved and venerated at the St. Peter of Alcantara Parish Church in Pakil, Laguna. It is worth noting that the image is a replica of Nuestra Señora de las Antiguas from Spain, further connecting the local community to the broader Catholic tradition and serving as a unifying symbol of faith and devotion.
ABOVE: Since September 14, 1788, the annual celebration of Our Lady of Turumba has become a cherished tradition, passed down through generations.
ABOVE: Since September 14, 1788, the annual celebration of Our Lady of Turumba has become a cherished tradition, passed down through generations.
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