Gumaca, municipality of the Philippines in the province of Quezon
Gumaca is a municipality in Quezon province on the Philippines, located near the coast with simple houses, busy markets, and relaxed streets. The area features flat terrain with fields, coconut trees, and waterways that shape daily life for residents.
This municipality was founded in the 14th century on the south bank of the Palanas River and was already a busy community with local leaders long before Spanish arrival. In the late 1500s it became an official town, and Saint Diego of Alcala was established as its patron saint through a Spanish friar's influence.
The name Gumaca comes from "Bumaka," meaning "the one who fought," reflecting a history of resilience. Residents still practice traditional festivals like the Arana and Baluarte Festival, where communities decorate bamboo arches with farm produce and share them with neighbors as an act of cooperation.
The town is small enough to explore on foot, and you can use tricycles or local buses for longer distances. Streets are safe to walk, and the best time to visit is outside the rainy season when weather is more pleasant.
The Cathedral of San Diego de Alcala is believed to be the oldest church in Quezon province, built in 1582, though it was burned by invaders and later rebuilt. A nearby coastal fortress tower called Castillo offers a view over Lamon Bay and recalls the time when Spanish forces controlled the area militarily.
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