The Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education (BCAEd) students from the College of Education (CoEd) at Marinduque State University (MarSU) staged excerpts from the moro-moro of Anapog-Sibucao with permission from its culture-bearers in the town as a culminating activity for the summer or midyear term.
Derived from an original script handed down from one generation to the next, the BCAEd students performed highlights of the unlikely love story of King Proteslao and Princess Eucariz. It is based on the Spanish Comedia, which became popular in the Philippines as Komedya in 1598 during religious festivities and civil festivals.
It reached the shores of the Marinduque islands between the 18th and 19th centuries alongside the spread of Catholicism and the moryonan practice in Mogpog.
Among the most applauded scenes were the appearance of the fearsome lion and the court jesters from both the Christian and Muslim sides.
Although most of the BCAEd students were female, they put in much effort to portray the swordplay and close combat of the male protagonists and antagonists from opposing sides.
Komedya, specifically moro-moro, has many variations in different parts of the country, such as linambay in Cebu and arakyo in Nueva Ecija, along with religious plays such as senakulo and tibag practiced in Baler, Ilocos, Iligan, and Parañaque. Moro-moro is known for colorful costumes, lively music, fight scenes, poetic lines, and comic relief by the pusong or lukayo.
A moro-moro is a traditional Filipino folk play that began during the Spanish colonial period. It tells stories about encounters between Christian and Muslim characters, often with themes of love, bravery, and reconciliation.
It developed in the 17th century as part of local celebrations and religious events. Over time, communities made it their own, adding colorful costumes, music, dance, and poetic lines.
Performers include kings, princesses, soldiers, and jesters. Fight scenes and comic interludes are also part of the show. Many towns still present moro-moro during fiestas to keep the tradition alive.
