The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) in collaboration with Allen Exploration (AEX), an American ocean research company, is set to embark on an archaeological exploration of the San Bernardino Straits from November 5 - 18, 2025. The exploration activity will first cover the municipal waters of Allen, Lavezares, Biri, and Capul in Northern Samar.
On October 13, 2025, Mr. Bobby C. Orillaneda, OIC of the
NMP’s Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage Division (MUCHD) paid a
courtesy visit to Governor Harris Christopher M. Ongchuan, Vice Governor
Clarence E. Dato and Mr. Kay Keenson C. Acebuche of the Provincial Planning and
Development Office to discuss the upcoming mission, which aims to locate
shipwrecks linked to the Manila Galleon trade and possibly naval vessels from
World War II.
According to Mr. Orillaneda, preliminary research suggests
that at least seven shipwrecks may be found in the area, offering valuable
insights into the Philippines’ maritime past.
The exploration will use advanced sonar technologies onboard
the Armada A86, a state-of-the-art research and exploration vessel capable of
conducting geophysical surveys and deep-sea mapping.
The NMP assured that if an archaeological excavation is
carried out, all archaeological finds will remain the property of the
Philippine government, ensuring the preservation of national heritage. The
museum previously led the successful recovery of the Manila Galleon San Diego
shipwreck off Batangas, which yielded over 34,000 artifacts and deepened
understanding of the country’s maritime history during the 17th century.
The team proceeded to do courtesy visits to Palapag Mayor
Florencio A. Batula Jr. and Catubig Mayor Solomon G. Vicencio for future
research projects and activities in the said localities.
Governor Ongchuan reaffirmed the Provincial Government of
Northern Samar’s commitment to supporting initiatives that protect and promote
both cultural and underwater heritage, emphasizing that preserving the past
strengthens the province’s collective identity and pride.
For more news and updates, visit:
►http://northernsamar.gov.ph
Subscribe to our YouTube account: ►https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkURQbWNWtVo9rrAIdnlnA
Like our Facebook page:
►PGNS: https://www.facebook.com/PGNS.Official
Follow us on Twitter:
►https://twitter.com/nsamarpio