Search on for shipwrecks in San Bernardino Strait
TACLOBAN CITY—The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) is set to launch an underwater archaeological exploration in the historic San Bernardino Strait off Allen town in Northern Samar to identify and document possible shipwrecks — including remnants of the legendary Manila Galleons and vessels that sank during World War II.
Allen Mayor Katrina Mae Suan met with NMP representatives who paid a courtesy visit at the municipal hall on Oct. 8, the municipal government reported.
The NMP team was led by museum curator Bobby Orillaneda of the Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage Division of NMP, and laboratory aide Ganielou Magsisi, the report said.
The municipal government did not say when the expedition would actually start and for how long.
Orillaneda was quoted as saying that the team’s upcoming expedition aims to locate and document underwater cultural heritage within the San Bernardino Strait—a crucial maritime corridor that has long served as a gateway for trade, exploration, and military operations.
The strait, which separates Samar Island from Luzon, was a key navigational route for the Galleon Trade between Manila and Acapulco during the Spanish colonial period.
It also became a major battleground during World War II, believed to be where numerous sunken ships and artifacts of historical and cultural significance have settled.
Suan welcomed the initiative and expressed full support for the National Museum’s research efforts, the statement said.
She assured the team of the municipal government’s assistance, particularly in logistics and coordination, throughout the duration of the exploration.
According to Orillaneda, the exploration is expected to enhance understanding of the country’s maritime past and contribute to the preservation of underwater heritage in the Philippines.
“The San Bernardino Strait holds stories that connect us to our seafaring ancestors and global history. Preserving these sites helps protect our shared cultural identity,” he added.
The exploration will be part of the National Museum’s continuing efforts to safeguard and promote the nation’s maritime and underwater cultural heritage.
