History – Page 2

Top 10 Strongest Earthquakes to hit the Philippines

October 8, 2015 By Lyza R. Sabornido Leave a Comment

What’s left of Maribojoc Church after the magnitude 7.2 earthquake in Bohol.

We all know that the Philippines is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is the reason why our country is prone to seismic and volcanic activity.

Now, the country is preparing for “The Big One”, a magnitude 7.2 magnitude earthquake from the West Valley Fault which is expected to hit Metro Manila and Quezon City. Thus, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and other government agencies has been conducting series of earthquake drills. This is to prepare the people for the estimated impacts projected in the 2004 Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study (MMEIRS). According to MMEIRS, “The Big One” could destroy about 40% of residential buildings and damage 35 percent of public buildings. It could also result to 34,000 casualties, 114,000 individuals will be seriously injured, and the possible fire incidents that would follow could add another 18,000 deaths. With the drills and information campaigns conducted, the authorities are hoping that those numbers would be lessened.

Actually, there had been many stronger earthquakes which hit the Philippines since 1600s but they caused lesser damage to properties. Casualties were also fewer because the cities then weren’t so densely populated unlike today. And as we know, Manila is the most densely populated city in the Philippines, if a magnitude 7.2 earthquake hits, there would surely be thousands of casualties and billions of damages on properties and infrastructures.

The following are top 10 strongest earthquakes in the Philippines that caused major destructions and casualties:

1. Magnitude 8.0 earthquake in Mindanao (August 17, 1976)

A magnitude 8.0 earthquake took place near Mindanao and Sulu a little past midnight of August 17, 1976 that was felt as far as Visayas. It was then followed by a massive 4 to 5 meters high tsunami covering 700 kilometers of coastline bordering the island. Because it was dark, the people were caught by the raging water which claimed 8,000 lives, injuring 10,000, and leaving 90,000 more, homeless.

2. Magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Northern and Central Luzon (July 16, 1990)

A total of 2,412 people died and at least ₱10-billion worth of damages to public and private properties was reported after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Northern and Central Luzon at around 4:00 p.m. of July 16, 1990.

Hyatt Terraces Plaza, Nevada Hotel, Baguio Hilltop Hotel, Baguio Park Hotel, and FRB Hotel, all in Baguio collapsed trapping and burying people alive.

Although the epicenter was recorded in Nueva Ecija, it caused more damage in the City of Pines. And the quake that just lasted for about a minute was one of the tragedies in the country that would never be forgotten.

3. Magnitude 7.5 earthquake in Luzon (November 30, 1645)

The magnitude 7.5 earthquake that crushed Luzon on November 30, 1645 at about 8:00 pm was called the “most terrible earthquake” in Philippines history. The Epicenter of the said quake was in Nueva Ecija caused by the San Manuel and Gabaldon Faults.

The extent of the tremor was felt as far as Cagayan Valley. It has caused many landslides which buried many people alive and destroyed many buildings and churches including Manila Cathedral.

That time, only Spanish are counted so the recorded number of casualties was only 600 while the injured was 3,000.

4. Magnitude 7.3 earthquake in Casiguran (August 2, 1968)

Most of the people in Casiguran, Aurora was still fast asleep when a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck at 4:19 a.m. of August 2, 1968.

It was another deadly and shocking seismic activity in the country. And the City of Manila got the most severe damage. Many buildings were either damaged or destroyed totally.

The said event was also called the Ruby Tower earthquake after the said six-story building located in Binondo collapsed, and caused the death of 260 people. A total of 268 people died that day and 261 more were injured.

5. Magnitude 7.2 earthquake in Bohol (October 15, 2013)

I can still remember how people panicked in the morning of October 15, 2013. It was around 8:12 a.m. when a strong earthquake was felt here in Tacloban City. Only to find out after the lights came back that what we have experienced was nothing compared to the damage it caused in Bohol which was the epicenter of the magnitude 7.2 earthquake.

The quake affected most of Central Visayas, particularly Bohol and Cebu. It was felt in the whole area of Visayas and reached as far as Masbate Island in the north and Cotabato in Southern Mindanao.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), a total of 222 people died, 8 went missing and 976 others were injured. An estimated 73,000 structures were damaged wherein more than 14,500 of which were destroyed totally.

6. Magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Mindoro (November 15, 1994)

November 15, 1994, at around 3:15 a.m., a magnitude 7.1 earthquake rocked Mindoro. A gigantic 8.5 meters (28 ft) tsunami then followed which devastated the islands of Baco and Calapan, Mindoro.

A total of 7,566 houses were washed out and some 78 people died because of that tragedy.

7. Magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Central Visayas (February 6, 2012)

A total of 51 people died, 62 still missing and 112 were injured when a 6.9 earthquake Central Visayas, particularly Negros and parts of Mindanao on February 6, 2012.

It caused a landslide which buried a barangay, damaged 15,483 houses, and a total damage of ₱383-million on infrastructures and buildings was recorded.

8. Magnitude 7.5 earthquake in Central and Southern Mindanao (March 5, 2002)

A magnitude 7.5 earthquake resulted to the death of 15 people and injuring around a hundred more in Central and Southern Mindanao on March 5, 2002.

The said quake originated near the Cotabato Trench that was followed by a tsunami. But it was the flood that was generated by landslides and falling debris that caused damage to an estimated 800 buildings.

9. Magnitude 6.5 quake in Ilocos Norte (August 17, 1983)

The magnitude 6.5 quake in Ilocos Norte on August 17, 1983 happened around 8:18 p.m. and resulted to 16 casualties and 47 people got injured.

It caused damages on various establishments such as schools, buildings, malls, residences, and etc. There were also landslides and sand boils that followed the event.

10. Magnitude 7.6 earthquake happened near Guiuan, Eastern Samar (August 31, 2012)

A very strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 happened near Guiuan, Eastern Samar on August 31, 2012 that was felt as far as Mindanao.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issued a tsunami warning Level 3, but it was lifted 5 hours later.

The quake caused damage on homes, bridges, and other infrastructures. There were also power interruptions in the affected areas. But despite the intensity only one person was reported dead and one injured because of the landslide in Cagayan de Oro City.

The bad thing about an earthquake is that we cannot prevent it and we cannot predict it. We do not know when exactly it would happen. Because of that, it would be better for us to be prepared at all times. Participate in Earthquake drills conducted by authorities, keep an emergency kit in the house, don’t panic when it happens and most importantly don’t forget to pray.

10 Things to Do when in Biliran

October 7, 2015 By Lyza R. Sabornido Leave a Comment

Biliran Bridge connects Biliran Province and Leyte Province

Biliran is a small island province in Eastern Visayas which got its name from a native grass which grows abundantly in the island called Borobiliran. During Spanish occupation, the island used to be a part of Cebu Province and was called Isla de Panamao then it became a part of Leyte Province in 1768 and in 1992 it became an independent island province. The island is about two and a half hour drive from Tacloban City.

Biliran may be a small being the 4th smallest province in the Philippines with a total land area of 53,601 hectares but it is blessed with beauty and offers the finest beaches one could expect in a tropical island. If you are looking for a place to go for swimming, relaxation and sight-seeing, Biliran Province offers that and more.

What can you expect from an island province? White sand beaches, waterfalls, hot spring, and of course, friendly locals who would always greet you with a warm welcoming smile.

If you are wondering what you could do in such a small island, I say A LOT! And here are 10 things you could do when in Biliran:

1. Go island-hopping

Higatangan Island’s shifting sandbar. Image by George Mejia Plecerda via Facebook

The beautiful sandy beach of Sambawan Island. Image by George Mejia Plecerda via Facebook

The province of Biliran is composed of the main island and other smaller islands such as Puro Island which connects the province to Leyte, the island municipality of Maripipi, Higatangan Island which is well-known for its shifting sandbar, Sambawan Island and Dalutan Island known for its white sand beach and pristine clear water.

If you are planning to go island-hopping, you might want to take a longer vacation leave because I am sure you would want to spend a whole day in each island I have just mentioned.

2. Enjoy swimming under the bright blue skies

One of the most beautiful beaches in Biliran. Image by George Mejia Plecerda via Facebook

When visiting Biliran, make sure you have your sunblock lotion ready because it’s gonna be a long day under the sun. Since the island is surrounded by beautiful beaches, swimming is an absolute must do. The clear blue water which reflects the color of the sky looks so inviting! I’m sure no one would be able to resist plunging in.

3. Try scuba-diving

A colorful world under the seas of Biliran awaits. Image by Agta Beach Resort via Facebook

Biliran Island is not only beautiful in the outside, but there is also a beautiful underwater world waiting to be explored. I’m talking about the beautiful coral reefs and colorful fishes you can see when going for a scuba-diving.

For as low as 1,800 Php. you can go for a Fun Dive with scuba gear at Agta Beach Resort in the Municipality of Almeria.

4. Dip yourself in a soothing hot spring

Soothe your sore muscles at Mainit Hotspring. Image by Rowena Gabuya via Facebook.

Did you know that Biliran is a volcano island? But there is no need for you to be alarmed because according to Phivolcs, there is only one historic activity which happened on September 26, 1939. But because of that volcano, you can enjoy a warm bath at the Mainit Hot Springs in Caibiran, Biliran. You can dip yourself in a warm and soothing water to relax sore muscles.

5. Visit the Nasunugan Watchtower Ruins (burned ruins)

The Biliran Nasunugan Watchtower before the unveiling of its historical marker. Image by Rolando Borrinaga via Facebook

Biliran, just like other islands in the Philippines have a very colorful history which dates back to pre-Spanish era. During the times when Moro raids were rampant the people of Biliran built a watchtower near the church but in one of those raids the Moros burned the settlement and only this watchtower made of stone and coral blocks remained standing. Hence, the place is now called Nasunugan located in Brgy San Roque, Biliran.

It was reconstructed in 2000 and was recognized by the National Historical Institute of the Philippines as one of the country’s historical landmarks in 2008.

6. Try an outdoor Wall-climbing

Climbing wall at Agta Beach Resort

Aside from swimming, beach resorts in Biliran also offer other amenities. If you are into wall climbing, why not try this climbing wall in Agta Beach Resort?

You would not miss it for sure because it is just right at the entrance of the resort. It is a fun way to start a day with friends before plunging into the sea.

7. Hike your way up to Binongtoan (Padre Gaspar)

You can see the town of Biliran and some parts of Leyte from Binongtoan.

Hiking up to Binongtoan is like a pilgrimage for Biliranons. It is the place where Padre Gaspar Ignacio de Guevarra brought the town folks during the so-called Biliran Religious Revolt from 1765 to 1774. From Biliran town proper, you can ride a motorcycle up to Brgy Hugpa or Brgy Canila and from there you can start hiking. Before reaching the peak, people would stop by at a spring water to drink sweet, cold and refreshing water which some people believes to be miraculous. When you reach the peak make sure you have your camera ready for the picturesque view in front of you.

Usually, people go there during Saturdays to light a candle at a huge white rock. People of Biliran built a small chapel there where a priest would celebrate mass during the celebration of a Fiesta in honor of Padre Gaspar every February 19-20.

8. Fall in love with stunning falls in the island!

Kasabangan Falls in Cabucgayan, Biliran. Image by Caren Corpin-Weber via Facebook

No one could resist the tempting nature’s beauty which Biliran possess. One of the province’s tourist attractions are the numerous falls which can be found in almost every town.

Taste the sweet water of Tomalistis Falls in Caibiran which made it to Guinness Book of World Records for being the “sweetest-tasting water in the world.”

There are also other falls to choose from like Kasabangan Falls in Cabucgayan, Kinaraha Cascades in Caibiran, Pundol Falls in Almeria, Busai Falls in Kawayan, Tigbaw Falls in Brgy Julita, Biliran , Ulan ulan Falls in Almeria, Tinago Falls in Caibiran and many others.

9. Experience the culture

Bagasumbol Festival in Naval during town fiesta every 1st Saturday of October.

Municipalities of Biliran Province preserve the historical significance of local festivals, which showcases their cultures and histories.

Hudyaka or merriment is one of the best parts of the celebration of Biliran Provincehood held every May 11. Just like Pintados, it showcases various festivals of the municipalities in the province.

Other festivals are; Bagasumbol Festival in Naval during town fiesta every 1st Saturday of October, Ibid Festival in Caibiran during town fiesta every 25th of July, Ginalutan Festival in Maripipi during town fiesta every 29th of September, Bucgay Festival in Cabucgayan every 2nd week of October, Gapnod in Almeria during charter anniversary every 1st of September, Subingsubing Festival of Kawayan every 24th of October and Borobiliran Festival in the town of Biliran during the celebration of its Pueblo Day every 9th of September.

10. Eat Fresh sea foods to your heart’s content

Fresh crabs from Biliran is always present in any occasion.

Since Biliran is surrounded by seas, fresh seafood is abundant. You can fill your stomach with freshly caught fish, shrimps and crabs at a low cost.

Aside from the sumptuous seafood there are also restaurants in the island which serve Italian and American cuisine. Plus you can also try some of the sweet delicacies such as sampilot and mamban. Or find out why Balintawak is the famous pasalobong from Biliran, it is a suman or rice cake which is a combination of black and white sticky rice wrapped in coconut leaf.

When in Biliran, you can EAT seafood to your heart’s content, fall in LOVE with the scenery and PRAY that you could visit the island again. Biliran may not be a well-developed tourist destination but seeing its natural beauty is truly exhilarating. If you are looking for a place to relax and forget the stress a city life gives you, Biliran is the place to be.

10 Facts about the Philippines that will Blow Your Mind

September 17, 2015 By Lyza R. Sabornido Leave a Comment

Mount Pinatubo at daybreak on June 15, 1991, a few minutes after the start of the climactic eruption. Photo by Smithsonian Institution.

The Philippines dubbed as Pearl of the Orient consists of more than 7,100 beautiful islands sculpted by Mother Nature through time. It has been battered by bad weathers, shook by strong earthquakes, and reformed by volcanic eruptions.

Although it has faced and been captured by stronger countries in the past, it has remained to be resilient. Our country never ceases to amaze me, and there is a lot more about the Philippines that most people don’t know. Here are 10 facts about the Philippines that might blow your mind: [Read more…]

10 Reasons Why Every Filipino Should Visit Rizal Park in Manila

August 17, 2015 By Rig Man 1 Comment

Rizal Park Manila Entrance

Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is a historic urban park located in the heart of Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. It’s one of the most significant landmarks in the country that shouldn’t be missed by every local or foreign tourist who are travelling to Metro Manila.

The park isn’t only a cozy and relaxing place to spend time with family and friends but visiting the 58-hectare site will tour anyone to hundred years of Philippine history from the Spanish period to the present time.

Here are 10 reasons why you should include Rizal Park in your list of must-visit places in the Philippines. [Read more…]

15 Photos that Will Make You Want to Visit the National Museum of the Philippines

August 13, 2015 By Rig Man 2 Comments

The National Museum of the Philippines is a museum of the Filipino people. It houses the most important ethnographic, anthropological, archaeological and visual artistry of the Philippines from the prehistoric period to the modern times.

If you are visiting Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, the National Museum is a place you must not miss. If you live in Metro Manila, and you’re always passing through Padre Burgos Avenue and Rizal Park, I assume you have already toured the different galleries inside the National Museum.

But if in case you haven’t, here are 15 photos that will make you eager to visit the National Museum of the Philippines right now. [Read more…]

12 Famous Monuments and Shrines in the Philippines that You should Visit

July 18, 2015 By Rig Man 1 Comment

The Philippines is not only an archipelago with beautiful beaches, colorful festivals and hospitable people but also a country that is rich in historical heritage and landmarks. If you are travelling across the islands of the Philippines, you will not only be travelling through different places but also through different historical points in time. Here are 12 famous monuments and shrines in the Philippines that you can add to your travel bucket list. [Read more…]

25 Facts You Should Know About Rizal Monument and Luneta Park

July 11, 2015 By Victorino Q. Abrugar 3 Comments

Rizal Monument in Rizal Park (Luneta) on June 27, 2015. Photo by FAQ.ph.

In the Philippines, probably the most popular, most visited, most guarded and most photographed monument is the monument of Jose Rizal in Luneta.

We know that Rizal has died fighting for the freedom of our country. He is considered our national hero. He’s even admired and honored by people from the other parts of the world.

His monument in Rizal Park or Luneta is not only built with precious metal and stone, but it also housed his remains. Hence, every Filipino should learn how to give honor and respect to this important landmark in the Philippines.

To grow the interest and care of many Filipinos about the monument, here are some facts everyone should know about the monument of Rizal and Luneta Park. [Read more…]

Tacloban City, One Year After Haiyan (50 Pictures of Commemoration, Hope and Recovery )

November 9, 2014 By Victorino Q. Abrugar 19 Comments

Various pictures of Tacloban City one year after Super Typhoon Yolanda devastated the city.

We have shown you Tacloban City in pictures 7 months after Super Typhoon Yolanda (International name: Haiyan) struck the city on November 8, 2013. We’ve also shared images from around the city and nearby towns 9 months after the typhoon. Now, as my fellow Taclobanons commemorate the first Yolanda Anniversary, I want to share these 50 photos which I took around Tacloban on November 8, 2014. [Read more…]

MacArthur Landing Memorial Park Photos (October 20, 2014)

October 20, 2014 By Victorino Q. Abrugar 4 Comments

It’s the 70th Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landing! So I decided to visit Macarthur Landing Memorial National Park to take some photos and share them to everyone, especially to the Leyteños who are already missing the place. As one of the residents of Leyte, I had many great memories here. We used to spend time in this park with my barkadas in college to play around, chitchat, and enjoy some picnic.

Perhaps many people are wondering how the park already looked like after almost a year since super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) struck Leyte and central Visayas on November 8, 2013. So if you want to take a look at the park now, here are several photos I took this afternoon to give you some feeling of being in one of the most historical and personally sentimental parks in the world.

The sign of MacArthur Park

A better tourism industry means more passengers and income for our pedicab drivers.

The Philippine Flag in MacArthur Park. We’re already getting near the famous monuments.

Balloon vendors are here in MacArthur Park.

A flower to honor the bravery of our soldiers.

A decree proclaiming MacArthur Park as a national historical site.

Many people want to take pictures with the monuments of MacArthur and other men.

Monuments immortalize personalities.

Here’s an important trivia for us.

They are tall. And they are the real celebrities.

A closer look at the monuments of General Douglas MacArthur with President Sergio Osmeña, Brigadier General Carlos P. Romulo and other soldiers.

The rear view

Are these the footprints of General Douglas MacArthur?

A new memorial stone erected in MacArthur Park to honor the bravery of the Australian soldiers who helped in the liberation of the Philippines during World War 2 and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

The names of the brave Australian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War 2 to liberate the Philippines are transcribed in this commemorative stone or marker.

The memorial stone of the Australian soldiers with the monuments of General Douglas MacArthur and the allied forces.

There’s a Jet Ski race happening here.

I’m glad to see many people here. Beautiful trees, aren’t they?

There’s a lot of people swimming at the Red Beach.

Just like us, when we were still in college. Oh I miss my college barkadas now.

The sun’s rays are scorching.

The people and the trees, they are survivors.

A sign of recovery. We are rising.

The green green grasses and plants are already here.

These words are transcribed in this monument. “This commemorative rock garden is a monument of peace. It is dedicated to peoples of all nations who share and cherish the same ideals of freedom and democracy. Rock tablets from peace-loving countries are found in this garden, each one carrying a message of solidarity, friendship and goodwill.”

Messages of peace and friendship from the leaders around the world can be read here.

The monument of the commemorative Rock Garden. Did I name it correctly?

The beauty of the Rock Garden in MacArthur Park is getting back.

It’s a sunny sunny day but thanks to these trees that give us some shady place.

The buko corner. Did you miss this place in MacArthur Park?

I missed drinking fresh buko juice here.

My lunch. 🙂

The Boy Scout Monument in Government Center, Palo. If you’ll walk from MacArthur Park to BIR, you’ll see him.

8 Facts about the Battle of Leyte Gulf that Will Blow Your Mind

October 19, 2014 By Victorino Q. Abrugar 30 Comments

General Douglas MacArthur with President Sergio Osmeña, Brigadier General Carlos P. Romulo and the Allied Forces landing in Palo Beach in Leyte on October 20, 1944. Picture taken by U.S. Army Signal Corps officer Gaetano Faillace.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf (also called The Battles of Leyte Gulf) is remembered by many historians as the largest naval battle ever fought in our modern history. It was an epic battle between the Japanese Imperial Navy and the US Navy (with some help from the Australian Royal Navy) that was fought in 4 separate engagements near the islands of Leyte, Samar and Luzon from October 23 to 26 in 1944.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf started a few days after the Allied Forces, under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, landed in Palo Beach in Leyte on October 20, 1944. Although only a local holiday in Leyte, the Leyte Landing is commemorated every year on the same date by Filipinos and World War II veterans. [Read more…]