PORO, CEBU — Gov. Gwen Garcia and Sen. Robin Padilla took a sidetrip to Purok Mactang, Brgy. Esperanza here to inspect artifacts believed to date back to Hispanic times.
The senator became interested with the place upon hearing that it could be the possible location of the battle that saw Ferdinand Magellan fall on Philippine shores.
Joy Tawil, former tourism officer here, said many artifacts such as daggers, gold death mask, ceramics, as well as skeletons of “bigger” race were unearthed on the shores of Mactang beginning in the 1970s.
A historical marker was placed in the area stating that the Galleon fleet of Magellan made a stopover in the area from the nearby Leyte-Samar region before proceeding to mainland Cebu. Today, the beaches of Mactang are a favorite location for locals and tourists alike to unwind, relax, and enjoy the view of the sea, sun, and the adjacent town of Isabela, Leyte. | Ioannes P. Arong