Northern Samar aims to preserve Spanish era burial ground

In Mapanas, Northern Samar, an ancient burial site holds the promise of unlocking the province's historical treasures, prompting calls for heightened preservation efforts, as announced by the local government.

According to the provincial authorities, locals have reported sightings of human skeletal remains on a rugged cliff across the Mayongpayong Rock Formations, signaling the presence of an age-old burial ground where remains were once interred atop the rocks.

Maria Josette Doctor, the head of the Northern Samar provincial tourism office, shared insights with the Philippine News Agency on Monday, stating that the bones, characterized by their broader and taller stature, are believed to date back to the pre-Spanish era, possibly belonging to the province's ancestors.

In a recent development, representatives from the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) conducted a site visit to Mapanas to examine the human remains. The objective is to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action for the discovered skeletons scattered across the area.

Doctor emphasized the importance of collaboration between the provincial government, NCCA, and NMP in unraveling the region's rich history and heritage. This partnership is viewed as a crucial step towards shedding light on the past and preserving Northern Samar's cultural legacy.

Mapanas, situated along the Pacific coast, was formerly a village under Palapag during the Spanish colonial period. Renowned for its picturesque coastline, rock formations, and mountain caves, the town boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

As efforts to explore and safeguard the province's historical sites intensify, Mapanas stands as a testament to Northern Samar's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage for future generations.