Paete

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Paete, officially the Municipality of Paete, is a town in Laguna, Philippines, located along Laguna de Bay. It has about 25,254 people (2024). Paete is famous for woodcarving and papier-maché art, giving it the nicknames “Carving Capital of the Philippines” and “Arts Capital of Laguna.” Its carved statues, pulpits, murals, and reliefs can be found in churches, palaces, and museums around the world.

History in brief:
Paete was founded on July 25, 1580, by Franciscan friars Juan de Plasencia and Diego de Oropesa. The name Paete likely comes from the Tagalog word paet, meaning a chisel. Early inhabitants were Malay from Borneo who arrived by boat called Balangay. The town was at times part of other towns but became an independent town again in 1602 as Pueblo de San Lorenzo, and the township was restored in 1850. It saw battles in 1899 during the American campaign, the Japanese occupation in World War II, and was liberated in 1945.

Culture and festivals:
Paete’s long tradition of woodcarving continues today. The town’s patron saint is St. James the Apostle (Saint James), with a feast on July 25. Other patrons include St. Lawrence (the first patron) and St. Anthony the Abbot (January 17). Holy Week is a major event here, with moving statues like Mater Dolorosa and Santa Veronica, plus processions, the Salubong, and street plays called Senakulo. The Hudiyo, carved wooden masks, are also part of the celebrations.

Important festivals include:
- Ukit-Taka Festival (usually in September) celebrating woodcarving (ukit) and papier-mâché (taka).
- Kasiningang Paete (February) for National Arts Month, featuring various art competitions.
- Salibanda Festival (January) honoring Santo Niño, known for water-splashing and festive parades.

Geography and economy:
Paete covers about 55 square kilometers and has nine barangays. The local economy relies on woodcarving, taka, tourism, farming, poultry, and fishing. The town is a popular pilgrimage site, with the Saint James the Apostle Parish Church, built in 1646.

Notable facts:
Paete’s carvers have been praised by Jose Rizal, and its crafts are found worldwide, including in famous churches and museums. The town is also linked to stories about the modern yo-yo. Residents are called Paeteños.