Manila: In a striking revelation brought on by the drought gripping northern Philippines, the remains of a centuries-old town have surfaced from the depths of a parched dam, offering residents a captivating glimpse into history and an unexpected economic opportunity in a region reliant on rice cultivation.
Following an extended period of scant rainfall, the desiccated reservoir has unveiled fragments of a submerged church and the foundations of ancient structures from the bygone era of Pantabangan, nestled in Nueva Ecija province. The spectacle has stirred intrigue among locals and visitors alike, providing a rare spectacle amidst the arid landscape.
“When news broke of the resurfacing of the sunken church of old Pantabangan town, my curiosity was piqued, and I knew I had to witness it firsthand,” remarked Aurea Delos Santos, a 61-year-old retired nurse, echoing the sentiments of many enchanted observers.
Seizing upon this newfound attraction, enterprising locals have seized the opportunity, offering guided tours to eager tourists keen on exploring the remnants of the submerged settlement. Nelson Dellera, a fisherman turned tour guide, recounted the transformation in his fortunes, stating, “In the past, my income from fishing barely reached 200 pesos ($3.50) a day, but with the influx of tourists, I now earn between 1,500 to 1,800 pesos daily.”
The genesis of this submerged relic traces back to the 1970s when the burgeoning demands of progress led to the relocation of the old town to pave the way for the construction of the dam. Today, this reservoir stands as a vital lifeline, serving as the primary irrigation and water source for Nueva Ecija and its neighboring provinces, as affirmed by local authorities.
The emergence of this ancient enclave comes amidst a broader struggle with extreme weather conditions across the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Intense heat waves have prompted precautionary measures, including the suspension of school classes and advisories urging citizens to remain indoors to avert heat-related illnesses.
