San Bernardino Lighthouse: A Historic Landmark in Bulusan Sorsogon
San Bernardino Lighthouse is a historic beacon located on San Bernardino Island in Sorsogon Province, Philippines. Built in 1896, the lighthouse has a focal plane height of 138 fee and has been an integral part of the island’s history and culture. The lighthouse has undergone several renovations over the years, and the latest restoration project was proposed by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
The proposed restoration of the San Bernardino Lighthouse will boost Bulusan town’s current program for tourism, culture, and arts development as laid out by NHCP Chairman Dr. Rene Escalante during his visit to the island. The lighthouse is also part of the Philippine Coast Guard and Department of Tourism’s “Adopt a Lighthouse Program” in partnership with the Sorsogon Provincial Government, local government units, and private stakeholders. The program aims to restore and maintain lighthouses across the country to help fishermen and seafarers navigate the waters safely.
San Bernardino Lighthouse is a cultural and historical landmark and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy the lighthouse’s beautiful hills, lush landscape, and panoramic ocean views. The structure, also known as El Faro De Islote De San Bernardino in Spanish, was one of the most important lighthouses during the Spanish colonial era. The lighthouse’s restoration will preserve its historical significance and provide economic benefits to the local community by attracting more tourists to the area.
History
The San Bernardino Lighthouse, also known as Faro de Isla de San Bernardino, is located on San Bernardino Island, at the eastern end of the San Bernardino Strait in the Philippines. The lighthouse was built in 1896, during the Spanish colonial period, and was one of the lighthouses built to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the San Bernardino Strait. The lighthouse was designed by Guillermo Brockman, a Spanish engineer, and was made of granite blocks.
World War II
During the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the 2nd World War, Imperial Japanese Admiral Kurita led his main battleship force through the strait, determined to reach the American transports anchored in Leyte Gulf. However, his plans were thwarted by the Battle off Samar, forcing him to retreat. The San Bernardino Lighthouse, occupied by Japanese forces during the war, was severely damaged. However, after the war’s end, the lighthouse was painstakingly restored to its former glory, and its beacon once again shone brightly.
Independent Era
After the Philippines gained independence from the United States in 1946, the Philippine government took over the San Bernardino Lighthouse. The lighthouse was modernized, and a new light was installed. The lighthouse has continuously operated since then, guiding ships through the San Bernardino Strait.
Today, the San Bernardino Lighthouse is a popular tourist attraction in Sorsogon. The lighthouse has been restored and is open to the public. It was given a historical marker by the National Historical Commission on October 24, 2018. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the San Bernardino Strait and the surrounding islands.
Geographical Location
San Bernardino Lighthouse is located in the province of Sorsogon in the Bicol Region of the Philippines. The lighthouse is situated on San Bernardino Island, which is part of the municipality of Bulusan.
San Bernardino Strait
The San Bernardino Strait is a narrow strait that separates the Bicol Peninsula of Luzon island from the island of Samar in the south. The strait is an important passage for shipping, as it is the only passage from the Pacific Ocean into the central Philippines. The coordinates of the strait are 12°35?15?N 124°11?47?E.
Islands Surrounding
San Bernardino Island is one of the islands surrounding the San Bernardino Strait. Other nearby islands include Capul Island, Batag Island, and Pulo Island. The island is located in the Samar Sea, which is part of the larger Philippine Sea. To the southwest of San Bernardino Island is the Leyte Gulf, which is separated by the narrow San Juanico Strait.
San Bernardino Island is located approximately 20 kilometers north of the town of Bulusan and 45 kilometers southeast of Laoang in Northern Samar. The island has a total land area of 1,200 hectares and is home to a small fishing community.
The lighthouse is situated on the northern tip of San Bernardino Island, which is also the highest point on the island. From the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the San Bernardino Strait and the surrounding islands.
Lighthouse Preservation
The San Bernardino Island Lighthouse is a historical landmark that has been standing since 1896. Over the years, the lighthouse has deteriorated due to natural wear and tear. Restoration efforts have been ongoing to preserve the lighthouse for future generations.
Restoration Efforts
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has recognized the importance of the San Bernardino Island Lighthouse and has proposed its restoration. The restoration project will include repairing and maintaining the lighthouse tower, the keeper’s house, and other structures on the island. The project aims to restore the lighthouse to its original condition and preserve it for future generations.
Volunteers are an essential part of the restoration efforts. They help clean up, restore, and maintain the lighthouse and its structures. Volunteers can make a difference by donating their time and skills to this vital project.
How To Get There
To get to San Bernardino Island in Bulusan, Sorsogon, visitors can take a boat ride from Sabang Port in Bulusan. The boat ride typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Visitors can also opt to join a tour package that includes transportation and transfers from Sorsogon or Bulusan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of San Bernardino Lighthouse?
San Bernardino Lighthouse, also known as El Faro De Islote De San Bernardino, is a Spanish-era lighthouse located on San Bernardino Island in Sorsogon Province, Philippines. The lighthouse was built in 1891 and has since played a significant role in guiding ships and boats through the treacherous waters of San Bernardino Strait.
Where is San Bernardino Lighthouse located?
San Bernardino Lighthouse is situated on San Bernardino Island, which is located in the San Bernardino Strait. The strait separates the Philippine islands of Luzon and Samar. San Bernardino Island is part of the municipality of Bulusan, Sorsogon Province, Philippines.
How tall is San Bernardino Lighthouse?
The lighthouse stands at a height of 38 feet. It is a cylindrical tower made of masonry and painted white with red trim.
What is the significance of San Bernardino Strait in Philippine history?
San Bernardino Strait is a historically significant waterway that has been the site of numerous naval battles throughout Philippine history. During World War II, the strait was the site of the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which was the largest naval battle in history.
What are some nearby attractions to San Bernardino Lighthouse?
San Bernardino Island is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a unique landscape featuring green rolling hills, rocky cliffs, and turquoise waters. In addition to the lighthouse, visitors can explore the island’s beaches, rock formations, and natural springs.
Is there a bridge connecting San Bernardino Strait?
No, there is currently no bridge connecting the islands of Luzon and Samar across San Bernardino Strait. However, there are plans to construct a bridge that would span the strait and connect the two islands.
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