Mount Lantoy
Mount Lantoy is a 593-meter mountain located inland from Argao, Cebu, Philippines. It is recognized as a watershed forest reserve and holds significance in Philippine mythology as the domain of Maria Cacao, a diwata associated with cacao trees and trade.
Key Facts
- ›Elevation of 593 meters (1,946 ft).
- ›Located 10 kilometers inland from Argao, Cebu, Philippines.
- ›Declared a watershed forest reserve by Presidential Proclamation no. 414 in 1994.
- ›Protected area reduced from 7,265 hectares to 3,000 hectares in 2006.
- ›Featured in Philippine mythology as the domain of Maria Cacao.
- ›Associated with cacao trees and a diwata who trades her products.
- Domain of Maria Cacao, A Diwata In Philippine Mythology.
- Associated With Cacao Trees and A Deity Who Trades Her Harvest.
- the Name 'Maria Cacao' Is Believed To Have Been Given By the Spanish To Christianize the Indigenous Deity.
Maria Cacao
About Mount Lantoy
Mount Lantoy is a significant geological and cultural landmark in the Philippines, standing at 593 meters (1,946 ft) above sea level. It is located approximately 10 kilometers inland from the municipality of Argao in Cebu.
Watershed Forest Reserve
The mountain's ecological importance is recognized through its designation as a watershed forest reserve. It was initially established as a protected area of 7,265 hectares (17,950 acres) by Presidential Proclamation No. 414 on June 29, 1994. However, the protected area's coverage was later reduced to 3,000 hectares (7,400 acres) through an Executive Order issued in December 2006.
Mythological Significance
In Philippine mythology, Mount Lantoy is deeply intertwined with the legend of Maria Cacao, a diwata (a type of deity or spirit). According to folklore, Maria Cacao resides in a cave on the mountain, surrounded by her extensive cacao tree plantation. The narrative describes how, after the harvest, rains would wash down the mountain, allowing Maria Cacao to travel to the towns below in her golden ship to sell her cacao products. Historical accounts suggest that the name 'Maria Cacao' was likely a Spanish imposition, with 'Maria' added to align the indigenous deity with Catholicism and 'Cacao' being a term introduced from Latin America, reflecting the Spanish colonial effort to integrate local beliefs into their own cultural and religious framework.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the elevation of Mount Lantoy?
Mount Lantoy stands at an elevation of 593 meters, which is approximately 1,946 feet above sea level.
Where is Mount Lantoy located?
Mount Lantoy is situated in the Philippines, specifically 10 kilometers inland from the municipality of Argao in Cebu.
What is the significance of Mount Lantoy in Philippine mythology?
In Philippine mythology, Mount Lantoy is considered the domain of Maria Cacao, a diwata believed to reside in a cave on the mountain. The mountain is also associated with her cacao plantation.
Has Mount Lantoy always been known as a watershed forest reserve?
No, Mount Lantoy was officially declared a watershed forest reserve in 1994. The size of the protected area was later reduced in 2006.
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