Situated in the northeastern part of Laguna, along the picturesque shores of Laguna de Bay, is the town of Paete. Originally pronounced P?-té with a long 'i' and short guttural ê, Paete was established in 1580 by Spanish friars Juan de Plasencia and Diego de Oropesa of the Franciscan Order.
Renowned for its masterful woodcarving artisans, Paete has gained prominence for its exquisite craftsmanship and artistic embellishments, proudly holding the title of the "Carving Capital of the Philippines," bestowed upon it by former President Gloria Arroyo on March 15, 2005.
The wooden statues and crucifixes, varying in size and commonly seen in almost every Catholic church and household across the country, are typically crafted in Paete.
This town has gained fame for its age-old wood carving tradition, a skill passed down through generations. Even the revered national hero, Jose Rizal, immortalized Paete's artistic prowess in his novels. The town's skilled craftsmen have transcended borders, with their masterpieces adorning prestigious locations like the Vatican and the United States.
Beyond Religious Carvings: Mastering Woodcraft
Leading the woodcarving industry, Paete has earned a stellar reputation for meticulously handcrafted wooden products. As you stroll through the town, you'll encounter rows of shops selling handcrafted woodcarvings and papier-mâché items, with a majority of these creations related to religious themes.
While religious carvings showcase their expertise, Paete has also gained recognition for its beautifully handcrafted wooden shoes, the famous "bakya," featuring various remarkable designs. Additionally, Paete holds a unique place in toy history, as it is believed to be the birthplace of the modern yo-yo—a Filipino invention that has captured global fascination.
Paete’s Woodcarving Masters
No discussion of Paete's woodcarving legacy is complete without honoring master artisan Mariano Madriñan. His masterpiece, the lifelike Mater Dolorosa, earned him prestigious recognition from the King of Spain, who bestowed an award upon him in Amsterdam in 1882.
Furthermore, Justino "Paloy" Cagayat, Jr. stands out as a prominent wood carver in his generation. As the third in his family's line, he oversees one of the larger open-air wood carving workshops located in Paete. Among his notable creations are the image of San Pedro Calungsod, transported to Rome for the canonization of the Filipino saint, and the paper mache representation of Ninoy Aquino, a commissioned piece by former President Corazon Aquino to commemorate Ninoy's 10th Death Anniversary.
Solid Materials
Batikuling wood stands as the top choice for wood carving due to its qualities. Treated to resist termites, this lightweight wood boasts longevity, making it a durable option. Other woods like Narra, Molave, and Kamagong, known for their toughness and heaviness, are also utilized.
