Exploring Philippines 69 - Marinduque (Post 4 - Moriones Festival First Night)

That night, we went to the town proper to witness the start of the lenten activities. There was an on-going procession and we intently watched it. After the procession, we went straight to Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral.

Inside the church, we met a 5-year old kid in his complete morion costume.  I don't know if at his age, he is aware of what the Moriones tradition is all about. But people who are keen observant of traditions such as this, their passion starts at an early age.  And it brings pride to the family once family members are participating regularly.

After our short stay at the cathedral, we went to a covered court where Morions gather. Even though it was already dark, there were some of them that were still present at the covered court proudly parading their morion outfit.  There were plenty of headdress on display and that was the perfect opportunity for us to try them.  The ones guarding the headdress gladly assisted us when we asked to try them.  At first, I thought that the headdress was light because they had to be worn all throughout the day by the Morions. Even if it was made from a light wood, still, it proved to be heavy on the head and what more if it will be worn all day long.  I guess it is just a matter of getting used to.

Afterwards, we went to the plaza to watch the commencement of the lenten program (it was Wednesday then).  But since we were already late, it was hard for us to squeeze ourselves in the already crowded place.  We ended up ordering a souvenir shirt in one of the stalls just outside the plaza.