400-year-old watch tower destroyed

LUNA, La Union, Philippines – A watch tower here built during the Spanish era and considered a national treasure was damaged by Typhoon Lando.

The Baluarte of Luna in Barangay Victoria Luna was split in half after it was hit by big waves and strong winds spawned by the typhoon, said Mayor Vic Marron.

The National Historical Institute (NHI) earlier approved and considered Baluarte as one of the national treasures.

“We will coordinate whenever the NHI wants it rehabilitated because it’s a national treasure,” Marron said.

The 5.6-meter tall watchtower is among the province’s tourist attractions. The Luna Tourism Council said the Baluarte was a fortress used by the Spaniards to warn its residents against pirates.

There are three other Spanish-era watchtowers here: the Balaoan at Darigayos point, San Juan and Carlatan in San Fernando City.

Marron said there are plans to strengthen the foundation of the Baluarte, but it should be first declared a historical landmark before funds can be allocated for its construction and preservation.

Two years ago, the Luna municipal council passed Resolution 68-2013, requesting the National Historical Commission to declare the watchtower a national historical landmark to enable government agencies to fund the preservation project and Resolution 69-2013, which asked the National Museum to also declare it a national treasure.

The Luna watchtower, which is facing the West Philippine Sea, is also a haven for pebble or stone pickers, a major livelihood of the province. Various colored pebbles, which are often used for decorations, are collected here.