By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commissioned four lighthouses in Batanes province on Friday, December 9, in a ceremony led by Commandant CG Admiral Artemio Abu and Governor Marilou Cayco.
Four navigational lanterns were also lit up in Sabtang, Mahatao, Valanga, and Ivana.
In his speech, Abu told Ivatans that the newly commissioned lighthouses will make them known globally as these will be shown in navigational charts and maps of all vessels traveling international waters.
“These lighthouses will serve as references to domestic and international seafarers. Ano po ang ibig sabihin? Makikilala po ang Batanes sa buong mundo,” Abu said.
Cayco lauded the PCG for being one of the province’s strong partners in safeguarding ports and coasts, for preventing illegal entry of people and products, and for preserving inhabitants’ welfare.
She also commended the agency’s efforts to protect Ivatans through massive typhoons.
Cayco believes the new lighthouses will benefit the local economy by boosting eco-tourism.
“The lighting of these facilities is the start of a new promising development for us as we continue to work on the recovery of our economy due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Cayco said.
“May the light of these buildings radiate to all of us a symbol of our Ivatan resiliency and strength. May it bring courage and hope to everyone,” she added.
“And, may these lighthouses bring more blessings and wonders in Batanes, to the Ivatans, and to the nation,” she continued. -ag
