Historical Significance of Spanish Galleon Wreck in

Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay

An Undergraduate Thesis Presented to the Faculty of

Bicol University College of Education
Daraga, Albay

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement

for the Degree Bachelor of Secondary Education
Major in Social Studies

Krichelle Ann L. Balin

Danica Faye B. Bitara
Ellyzza Jewel D. Madrid
Anna Marie M. Millena
 1

2023

RECOMMENDATION FOR FINAL ORAL DEFENSE

This thesis entitled, HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SPANISH GALLEON

WRECK AT BUHATAN, STO. DOMINGO, ALBAY, prepared and submitted by
KRICHELLE ANN L. BALIN, DANICA FAYE B. BITARA, ELLYZZA JEWEL D.
MADRID, AND ANNA MARIE M. MILLENA in partial fulfillment of the requirements of
the degree, Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Social Studies, is hereby
submitted to the thesis committee for consideration.

GERARD M. PROTACIO

Adviser

June 3, 2023

Undergraduate Thesis Committee

This thesis entitled HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SPANISH GALLEON

WRECK AT BUHATAN, STO. DOMINGO, ALBAY, prepared and submitted by
KRICHELLE ANN L. BALIN, DANICA FAYE B. BITARA, ELLYZZA JEWEL D.
MADRID, AND ANNA MARIE M. MILLENA in partial fulfillment of the requirements of
the degree, Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Social Studies, is hereby
recommended for oral defense.

EDISON A. PEREZ

Chairman

LYRA P. NASAYAO NORMA L. MAGDATO

Member Member
 2

RECOMMENDATION FOR FINAL ORAL EXAMINATION

Recommendation for Final Oral Examination of KRICHELLE ANN L. BALIN,

DANICA FAYE B. BITARA, ELLYZZA JEWEL D. MADRID, AND ANNA MARIE M.
MILLENA, candidates for the degree, Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in
Social Studies.

Thesis : HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SPANISH GALLEON WRECK AT

BUHATAN, STO. DOMINGO, ALBAY

Date : June 3, 2023

Place : Bicol University Undergraduate School

This is to certify that KRICHELLE ANN L. BALIN, DANICA FAYE B. BITARA,

ELLYZZA JEWEL D. MADRID, AND ANNA MARIE M. MILLENA has passed the oral
examination with the final rating of _____%.

Panel of Members Action Taken

EDISON A. PEREZ
____________________

Chairman

LYRA P. NASAYAO
____________________
Member

NORMA L. MAGDATO ____________________

Member
 3

APPROVAL SHEET

The study entitled HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SPANISH

GALLEON WRECK AT BUHATAN, STO. DOMINGO, ALBAY, prepared by Krichelle
Ann L. Balin, Danica Faye B. Bitara, Ellyzza Jewel D. Madrid, Anna Marie M.
Millena, after passing the evaluation of the undergraduate research committee, is
hereby approved in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of
Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Social Studies.

MARCIA CORAZON P. RICO, PhD

Research Teacher

MARIBEL M. NAZ, EdD

Program Adviser, BSED SocStud

JANUARY M. DE CHAVEZ, MAEd

Research Coordinator, BUCE

LORNA M. MIÑA, PhD

Dean, BUCE
 4

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The completion of this undertaking would not be possible without the following
who generously extended their assistance, help, and support. Thus, the researcher
would like to express his sincerest gratitude to each of the following:

The local government officials of Sto. Domingo, Albay, headed by Mayor Jun
Aguas, the residents of barangay Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay headed by Barangay
Captain Melba Balea, the municipal tourism officer of Sto. Domingo, the Araling
Panlipunan teachers of Sto. Domingo National High School and Buhatan
Elementary School, and the Albay divers for accommodating the researchers in the
interview with them and for assisting the researchers in conducting the study;

Their thesis adviser, Prof. Gerard M. Protacio, for the priceless efforts, time,
expertise, and untiring support, at all stages of this study;

The members of the panel, Dr. Edison Perez, Prof. Lyra Ruth O. Nasayao, and
Dr. Norma Magdato, for their valuable time spent in giving comments, suggestions,
and recommendations that led to the improvement of the study;

To Kap Talie Polestico, the barangay captain of barangay Bagong San Roque,
for helping the researchers in reaching out to the key informants, specifically the local
chief executive;

To Vice Mayor Mark Aguas of Sto. Domingo for capturing and sharing the photo
of the artifact of the galleon and in helping the researchers in reaching out to the key
informants, specifically the Albay divers.

The ever-supportive family and friends of the researchers for their undying
support and guidance to the researchers;
 5

Above all, the researchers would like to thank the Almighty God, for making all
things possible, and for blessing the researchers with good health, strength, wisdom,
and determination which enabled them to accomplish all the tasks required to finish this
study;

And to all who lent a helping hand, in one way or another, the researchers would
like to extend their heartfelt gratitude.

K.A.L.B, E.J.D.M, D.F.B.B,

A.M.M.M

ABSTRACT

Title: HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF SPANISH

GALLEON WRECK IN BUHATAN, STO. DOMINGO,

ALBAY

Authors: Krichelle Ann L. Balin; Danica Faye B. Bitara, Ellyzza

Jewel D. Madrid; Anna Marie M. Millena

Degree: Bachelor of Secondary Education, Major in Social

Studies

Institution: Bicol University College of Education (BUCE)

Type of Document: Unpublished Undergraduate Thesis, 2023

Date: May, 2023

 6

Without knowledge of the past, a society cannot be deemed to exist, so local

history plays a crucial role in enhancing people's understanding of their own community.
Our society becomes a community as a result of tradition and norms, stories, and
communal celebrations. By sharing these narratives and preserving these local
customs, we strengthen our sense of solidarity. In connection with this, the researchers
conducted a study on the local history of Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay, focusing on the
ruin of a Spanish galleon in that area. It was intended to promote both the historical
significance of the Spanish galleon wreck site and local tourism in Buhatan Sto.
Domingo Albay.
The current study employed a descriptive research method in which the
researchers conducted interviews with the study's selected key informants in order to
investigate the status, level of awareness, and recommendations for promoting the
historical significance of the Spanish galleon disaster. Nine (9) local government
officials of Sto. Domingo, nine (9) araling panlipunan teachers, nine (9) local residents,
two (2) divers, and one (1) tourism officer were selected using purposive sampling for
this study.
The obtained data disclosed that the development status of the galleon ruin in
Buhatan is halted, as there are no visible traces of the vessel's history. The local
government officials of Sto. Domingo, Albay, have not taken any steps to preserve the
galleon disaster in Buhatan. Tourism-related sectors lack information regarding the
Spanish Galleon Wreck in Buhatan. In Sto. Domingo, Albay, there is a lack of
knowledge regarding the Galleon's history and other pertinent information. In terms of
local history education, the main informants have described how the history of the
galleon disaster in Buhatan is shared among students, albeit in the form of passing
tales.
Local residents are aware that a galleon calamity occurred on their land, but they
lack the necessary historical knowledge to describe the incident in detail. Local
Administration. After being questioned, local government officials revealed that they
 7

knew little to nothing about the remnants of a Spanish galleon located in the waters of
Buhatan. The only information they could provide was that a ship had sunk in their
vicinity, but they were unable to specify where. They gave their undivided attention to
the city of Santo Domingo and the Sarung Bangui Festival, the reason for the city's
fame. Teachers at Araling Panlipunan had varying degrees of knowledge about the
Galleon disaster. The tourism officer, upon discovering that the aforementioned event
was supposed to fall under their purview, did not have any historical information from
their office.
Lastly, the program's primary objective is to resolve the lack of site
development and propagation of the location's historical significance. It should also
benefit the local economy and way of life in Sto. Domingo, Albay.
Therefore, the researchers developed recommendations to preserve the
historical significance of the aforementioned Spanish galleon disaster off the coast of
Buhatan, Santo Domingo; Create signage or information displays during site
development to provide visitors with detailed information about the galleon disaster and
its historical significance. A strategic plan can be proposed in terms of tourism
development to attract travelers and publicize the galleon ruin site as a cultural and
historical attraction. The tourism office of Sto. Domingo Albay should conduct extensive
research to determine the historical significance of the Spanish Galleon ruin in their
region in order to advertise the galleon wreck. In local history education, planning
educational events and programs. Plan educational programs or events that promote
project-based learning and encourage student engagement with the Spanish Galleon
Wreck topic. Create brochures, pamphlets, or informative placards for local residents
detailing the history of galleon disasters in their region. Include details about the
disasters, their significance, and any interesting anecdotes associated with them.
Provide these materials in public areas, community centers, libraries, and visitor
information centers in an accessible and visually appealing format. Organize guided
excursions and site visits at the galleon disaster site for local government officials.
 8

Keywords: historical significance, spanish galleon wreck, status, level of awareness, program

Table of Contents

Page

Title Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i

Recommendation for Oral Examination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii

Result of Final Defense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Approval Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv

Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v

Abstract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi

Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

List of Figures and Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

viii

Chapter 1 The Problem

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Statement of the Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Scope and Delimitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Significance of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

 9

Chapter 2 Review of Related Literature and Studies

Related Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11

Related Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Synthesis of the State of the Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Gap Bridged by the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Theoretical Framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Conceptual Framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Definition of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Chapter 3 Research Design and Methodology

Research Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Sources of Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Key Informants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Data Gathering Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Research Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Chapter 4 Data Analysis and Interpretation

Status of the Spanish Galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay

a. site development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

b. local government initiatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

c. tourism development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
 10

d. local history education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Level of awareness on the Galleon wreck

a. Buhatan residents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

b. Local government officials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

c. Araling Panlipunan teachers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

d. Local tourism industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Program developed to promote the historical significance of the site . . . . . . . . 95

Chapter 5 Summary, Findings, Conclusions and Recommendations

Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Findings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
114

Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A. Letter to LGU Officials

B. Letter to Tourism Industry

C. Letter to Araling Panlipunan Teachers of Sto. Domingo National High school

D. Letter to Buhatan Elementary School

E. Letter to Brgy. Officials of Buhatan

F. Letter to Respondents
 11

G. Interview guides

H. Curriculum Vitae

List of Figures, Plates and Tables

Figure 1: Theoretical Paradigm (Historicism) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Figure 1.1.: Theoretical Paradigm (Assessment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Figure 1.2.: Theoretical Paradigm (Programme) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Figure 2.: Conceptual Paradigm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Plate 1: Galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Plate 2: An artifact of the galleon wreck Photo courtesy: Vice Mayor Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Plate 3: Mural of Spanish Galleon in the sea with “kwaw” fishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Table 1: Identified Themes from the responses of Local Residents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Table 2: Identified Themes from the responses of LGU Officials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Table 3: Identified Themes from the responses of Araling Panlipunan Teachers . . . . . . . . . 84

Table 4: Identified Themes from the responses of the Tourism Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

 Chapter 1

Introduction

Learning about the past gives the present individuals an understanding of the present

society and how people reached this point. Although history cannot repeat itself, and no one

cannot get back the people of the past, how the scenarios happened, or the time they occurred,

knowledge of history teaches us lessons from the mistakes of the people in the past so as not to

repeat them. History, in general, provides the identity of what is existing today; the

achievements and failures of the people in the past directly affect our current lives and way of

living.

History, in addition, is not merely the study of historical events that happened to the

world; it is also studying about the causes and effects of these historical events'. ‘Those who do

not learn history are doomed to repeat it.’, which was the most famous quote from a writer and

philosopher George Santayana. Without knowing history, we cannot undertake any sensible

inquiry into the political, social or moral issues in society. Therefore, one must be sufficiently

grounded in historical understanding in order to bring sound historical analysis to the service of

informed decision- making. (UCLA) Thus, without historical knowledge, one cannot achieve the

informed citizenship essential to effective participation in the democratic processes of

governance and the fulfillment for all our citizens of the nation’s democratic ideals. Denied

knowledge of one's roots and place in the great stream of human history, the individual is

deprived of the fullest sense of self and that sense of shared community on which one's fullest

personal development as well as responsible citizenship depends.

Similarly, history has been a magnet for tourism in Old World countries like Greece,

Egypt, Italy and Spain. It was no different for tourism in Asia. Already tourists from all over the
 13

world are attracted to the centuries-old Buddhist and Hindu temples of India, Cambodia,

Vietnam and Indonesia. The Philippines may be handicapped because of the absence of

historical monuments. However, we can leverage on the unique role our islands played in the

first-ever recorded globalization of trade, the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade. A National Galleon

Museum was established in 2017 to be a part of the itinerary of all tourists (foreign or domestic)

interested in the history of globalization in keeping with the idea of using history (together with

culture and nature) as a more sustainable basis of sound and healthy tourism. Former Senator

Edgardo J. Angara and Madame Margarita Zavala, the former First Lady of Mexico, came up

with the concept for this Museum while the latter was visiting the Philippines in November 2011.

The objective was to promote awareness of the connections between the Philippines and

Iberoamerican countries while promoting the worldwide history of the Manila Galleons through

public programs, research, and exhibitions. The National Historical Commission is the

organization behind the Museum. (Zulueta, 2017)

Local history, on the other hand, is also essential in many aspects; first, to individuals. It

stimulates critical thinking especially to students. Having been exposed to misinformation that

nowadays are spreading on various online platforms, knowledge on local history opens a door

to evaluating the data available on different websites and understanding biases. Second, to

communities. Traditions in a community can be better appreciated when the people are aware

how it originated. Moreover, it can help strengthen community connection to disseminate local

stories, traditions, and civic commemorations. And third, to the future; in order for the future to

acquire improvements, contrasting perspectives on current issues should be understood. And a

way for the current leaders to make a sound decision is to look back on the leaders of the past

whose significant contributions have a great effect on the society. Through gaining insights from

the past role models, current leaders can make the community move from one step to the next

(Poudre landmarks foundation). Thus, our world today is always connected to both the
 14

successful and tragic events of yesterday. Through interaction, the cultures and ideas of people

of different races blended, which paved the way for technological innovations and the evolution

of human societies. Such processes of cultural and technological exchange arose through

various means, including the migration of peoples, conquest, and trading systems (American

Historical Association).

Those trading systems that sailed throughout Asia during the time that European voyages

conquered the Philippines fostered connections and the exchange of wealth. From the different

trade routes of the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade, various local shores in the Philippines have

been crossed. Although the success in the trading world is indisputable, these European

voyages cannot be possible if it weren’t for the existence of galleons. The so-called Manila

galleons were built of Eastern hardwoods which made their hulls remarkably resistant to

cannonballs. In effect, galleons became a slow-moving castle at sea, and it was much more

likely to be sunk by a storm, a reef, or an accident than by an enemy attack (Cartwright, 2021).

As we shall know, these galleons are vessels that traveled annually between the ports of Manila

and Acapulco, transporting various items from Europe as well as silk, porcelain, spices,

precious woods, lacquer, carpets, folding screens, and vases from Asia and America.

Galleons are an important part of history whereas they have been the means of the

Europeans, particularly the Spaniards, in fulfilling the motives of European exploration which

historians describe as, “for God, glory, and gold.” (Beck et al., 2009) The motives of these

voyages are: the spread of Catholicism, colonization, and to reach the sources of trade spices

and other luxury goods from Asia which can be a profitable business in Europe. Included in the

voyages are the trade routes such as the Manila-Acapulco trade that established not only an

exchange of goods, but also the culture, traditions, literature, and interactions of people. Akin to

these trade routes are the reportedly frequent shipwrecks in the Philippines due to inclement

weather, human intervention, or possibly a combination of both. There were eighteen recorded
 15

galleon shipwrecks in the Philippines, particularly the Manila-Acapulco galleons following

approximately the same routes both coming in from and going to Acapulco, thus a number

of ships, not only galleons, were wrecked along these sea lanes (Jago-on, Orillaneda, 2019).

In relation to this, galleon wrecks serve as a constant reminder and record of the trades and

communications of the past which have been the root of the modern-day interaction as to

globalization, prevalence of Christianity, and the literatures.

Galleon wrecks, in the like manner, proved that the Galleon Trade actually took place in

the 1500s and represented the beginning of international trade relations, which made a

significant contribution to the economy of the world by uniting the three continents of America,

Europe, and Asia. As we saw, trades between the mentioned continents, leveraged on

American silver, stimulates a great production of goods, mostly silk and porcelain, mainly in

China. These galleon wrecks are clear evidence of the important consequences and

ramifications of all kinds, worldwide and regionally of the first global trade network: the Manila

Galleon (Vernon, 2019). Specifically, the Philippines is a country that is located in the typhoon

belt wherein galleon wrecks occurred rapidly. Maritime transport and navigation at this time are

vulnerable to typhoons and hurricanes, so many galleons never made it to safe harbor in

Acapulco. Accidents have been blamed on navigational hazards, topography, strait currents and

tides, and human error (Isorena, 2015).

There were eighteen recorded galleon shipwrecks in the Philippines. One of these galleons

was recovered off the shores of Santo Domingo, Albay, and was related to the first recorded

shipwreck investigation in the Philippines on May 9, 1967. The galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo, Albay, Philippines in particular, is an intriguing example of this kind of disaster. As it

was said, the wreckage was bushed by a powerful typhoon and crushed on the reefs of the

Albay Gulf on its way to Acapulco. In connection with this, the researchers carefully selected the

galleon wreck in the said locale to scrutinize about since there is a lack of study and any other
 16

resource material regarding the aforementioned shipwreck site in Albay. There are a few articles

about the said matter, however, it only provides a scant amount of information and focuses on

the wreckage rather than going into great detail regarding the wreck site itself. Nonetheless,

despite its length and effects, the majority of the related articles for this area have not

adequately addressed or analyzed the main focus of the galleon wreck in Buhatan which the

researchers want to know. Decrease in the knowledge gap about the galleon wreck in the said

site and most importantly, drawing awareness by developing a program or project for this

particular area is a firm validation for the choice of locale.

In any case, understanding the galleon wrecks is tantamount to understanding the present

through enlivening the past. Having a pertinent view about the galleon trade helps students

understand what actually happened during this specific period, especially those who are

studying history and taking Social Studies as their major. For instance, they may learn what

impact does the Galleon Trade have on the Philippines and the Filipinos? Did the country and

the Filipino people gain anything from this, or does it have a negative impact on the country's

economic development? Therefore, learning about the Galleon wrecks enables students to

understand how the trade affected their country and themselves as Filipinos.

Same with understanding the importance of the galleon history, without adequate

knowledge regarding the said matter, one cannot be able to completely understand the essence

of existence of these galleons that served as an instrument for economic development as well

as providing technological advancements among different countries in the modern world. The

history of galleons allows us to trace the success during the process of utilizing various

equipment for sailing as well as for other significant innovations. It also makes us understand

how our culture altered throughout the time, what beliefs did other races had entailed to us, and

what implications these galleons had brought, especially to the society. One example of this is

the unprecedented cultural exchange between Mexico and the Philippines caused by the
 17

Galleon. Puebla’s Talavera or those multicolored shawls of our typical costumes come from

there, while the Filipino language, Tagalog, contains more than 5,000 words in Mexican

Spanish, including several in Nahuatl (El Galleon De Manila, n.d.). In the preceding example,

we can see that the significance of galleon history plays an important role when it comes to how

the Filipino people adapted all kinds of alteration given that the Philippines is a country that has

been colonized by different nations.

In the same degree, the history of galleons made it possible for people to discover the

beauty of diversion. From bringing the two halves of Earth together carrying products, people,

cultures, ideas, and aesthetics from both continents in their holds. They served as the main

actors in this historical landmark that was the beginning of the relationship between two cultures

(Fundación Nao Victoria, 2018). Same with local history which has an important role in helping

people to better understand their community because without the knowledge of its past, a

society cannot be considered to exist. The tradition and norms, stories and civic

commemoration turns our society into a community. By sharing these tales or stories and

carrying on these regional customs, we develop our sense of community. In connection with

this, the researchers conducted a study on the local history of Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay,

specifically about the Spanish galleon wreck in the said area. It aimed to promote the Spanish

galleon wreck site as well as the local tourism of Buhatan Sto. Domingo Albay. Thus, the

researchers developed a program that may be proposed to promote the historical significance of

the site. The program that the researchers suggested to the local government unit was to

develop a landmark that may become a popular tourist attraction in Buhatan Sto. Domingo

Albay. In this manner, the wreck site may be promoted not only to the local residents but also to

encourage tourists to visit Buhatan and it may boost the local tourism of the town.
 18

Statement of the Problem

The study aimed to explore and promote the Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo, Albay. This sought answers to the following specific questions:

1. The status of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay along:

a. site development

b. local government initiatives

c. tourism development

d. local history education

2. What is the level of awareness on the galleon wreck among:

a. Buhatan residents

b. Local Government Unit officials

c. Araling Panlipunan teachers

d. local tourism industry

3. What program may be developed to promote the historical significance of the site?

Scope and Delimitation

The main purpose of the study is to explore and promote the historical significance of the

Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay – what it is, how it has impacted

the residents of Buhatan, and why it is important to raise awareness in this particular area. This

study also considered the promotion of the site with regards to its historical background. The

scope of this study was limited to the natives of Sto. Domingo, particularly the residents of

barangay Buhatan, the LGU officials, and Araling Panlipunan teachers who are currently

teaching the subject at Buhatan Elementary School and Sto. Domingo National High School.
 19

The researchers delimited the study only to Buhatan residents who are chosen to

participate in the study because they are from the locale in which the research was conducted.

Due to time restrictions and limited resources available to the researchers, this study only has

an ample number of resources on papers and studies to draw from. Though limited, the basis

used by researchers are valid and detailed enough to cover the scope of the study.

Significance of the Study

This study helped promote the significance of the site with regards to its historical

background through benefitting the following groups of individuals.

Social Studies Pre-service Teachers of Bicol University. The knowledge on local history of

the pre-service teachers of BSEd Social Studies shall be augmented for their future reference in

teaching. With a deeper understanding of the causes and effects of such events that have

influenced our way of life today, these pre- service teachers would be better equipped to use

their knowledge regarding this matter when they begin teaching in the future.

Sto. Domingo Tourism. The program that may be proposed in this study may help the local

government unit to develop a plan on how to promote this wreck site. In this way, the tourism

sector in the municipality of Sto Domingo Albay shall increase as a result of the new tourist

attraction.

Local Government Unit of Sto. Domingo, Albay. The economy of the Local Government Unit

of Sto. Domingo shall increase consequently to the tourist appeal that the site may offer.

Sto. Domingo National Highschool Araling Panlipunan Teachers. Promoting the

significance of the galleon wreck would help the Araling Panlipunan teachers in the locality to
 20

increase their awareness of the local history for their additional reference in teaching. They may

impart their knowledge to the next generations in order to preserve the historical remains from

the Manila Galleon trade that was discovered close to their coastlines.

Sto. Domingo National Highschool Students. As high school students of Sto. Domingo, they

should be aware of the historic events in their locality where they belong and how their seas

took part in the Manila- Acapulco Galleon trade.

Buhatan Residents. The residents of Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay, should be aware of the

historic events in their area and value its significance. In this way, they may enrich their town

and tourism because there lies one of the pieces of evidence that the Galleon Trade actually

took place in the 1500s and represents the beginning of international trade relations.

Bicol University. The Bicol University may also utilize the material that will be produced as an

aid in meeting its mission of providing advanced and specialized instruction in the sciences,

particularly in social science.

Bloggers. Bloggers may feature this story in their blogs and raise awareness about the galleon

wreck that was found on the shores of Brgy. Buhatan Sto. Domingo Albay.

Vloggers. The vloggers near the vicinity of the historic site, especially those content creators

who love to create contents about historical sites will find it as another opportunity to explore

and visit the place and promote it using their platforms.

DepEd. The Department of Education will be supported in their pursuit of upholding learner-

centeredness in curriculum whereas being aware of local histories is one of students' needs for

their holistic development.

 21

Teachers Educational Institution. Teachers Educational Institutions may gain ideas about the

origin of the Manila galleons during the Spanish Era. From this, they may develop ideas and

theories that may supplement their knowledge in teaching particularly about history.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Promoting the site because of its

historical significance will also protect the environment itself, hence helping the Department of

Environment and Natural Resources with its mission to protect, conserve, and manage the

environment.

Albay Provincial Tourism of Culture and Arts Office. Developing a program to promote the

historical significance of the site may help the Provincial Tourism of Culture and Arts Office as

well as Albay tourism in boosting the economy, as this could become one of the most visited

tourist spots in Albay. It may also attract tourists, particularly those who enjoy visiting historical

sites.
 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter reviewed literature and studies related to the galleon wreck in Albay. This

chapter also included the synthesis of the state of the art and the gap to be bridged by the

study. The discussion of the theoretical and conceptual framework is likewise included as well

as the definition of terms.

Related Literature

The literature and studies related to the Spanish galleon wreck in Albay that the

researchers coherently clustered are discussed in the following paragraphs. The following

paragraphs discussed the various existing literature and studies related to the said topic

regarding the galleon wrecks.

In the book Patterns of World History, Beck et. Al (2009) presented that a Spanish

expedition led by Ferdinand Magellan arrived in the Philippines in the year 1521 and started to

claim the islands. In 1565, Spain began settling the islands since they wanted to establish their

trade empires in the East. This passage discusses the beginning of the Spanish expedition

hence, the start of how the Spaniards entered the Philippine islands.

In another book, Essential World History, Duiker et. Al (2019) Spaniards' colonization of the

Philippines paved the way to carrying trade across the Pacific. Using the Pacific trade winds,

Spanish galleons started their trading systems. Duiker presented information on how Spaniards

started recreating galleons in the Philippines for the primary purpose of traveling since wood is

not that sturdy to maintain its shape in the water for an extended period.

Thus, Cartwright (2021) stated in his article that Spanish galleons are a prominent type of

Galleon used for carrying cargo and as a warship armed with up to 60 cannons. Galleon is
 23

derived from the Portuguese term galley, associated with the term warship. Spanish galleons

were developed in the early 16th century from ships like the caravel and the carrack; most of

these galleons were also built in the Philippines. This passage can relate to the study in

providing better visualization of what a galleon looks like.

Asgarov (2022) stated in his article that a new type of ship was introduced in the 1540s -

the Galleon. It was a purpose-built warship that could carry much cargo and was more

substantial, heavily armed, and less expensive to build (five Galleons could cost around the

same as three Carracks). This article states that the building of the Galleons started in the

1540s. This is pertinent to the current study in that it gave the researchers' background

knowledge and context on the origin of the Galleons.

The Manila Galleon is described in an excerpt from Banzuela's (2011) Masbate in the

Galleon Times as a massive, heavy Spanish ship built of wood, fastened with nails, metals, and

ropes bound together by some putty derived from tree saps. The Manila Galleon received its

name because it comprises Philippine timbers, Abaca fibers for rigging, and Ilocos sail cloths.

The Galleon Trade began in Manila, not Acapulco, as Raffi claimed in his piece. For distinction

purposes, Banzuela described the unique features of a galleon made in the Philippines and how

it differs from foreign ones.

A dialogue from Underwood's (1998) forum "Commerce and Culture of the Manila Galleon:

Linking the Philippines, Guam, The Americas, and Spain" discerns that the interchange of

goods and information between East and West was facilitated in large part by the Manila

Galleon, with the New World acceptably fulfilling the function of a mediator. It is possible to

investigate it from various perspectives, including as a captivating tale about navigation and

commerce or as an illustration of Spain's influence on the world. Because of this, galleons are

one of the primary reasons Spain achieved authority in Asia via the return route that Miguel

Lopez de Legazpi spearheaded. Nearing the study's primary focus, this paragraph discussed

how Spaniards achieved authority over Asia through galleons utilized as transportation.
 24

On the other hand, shipwrecks are defined by Gibbins and Adams (2010) as the most

numerous and distinctive type of site studied by maritime archaeologists. This article suggests

that regardless of date, place, and type, the uniform characteristics of these wrecks can be

investigated using similar methodologies and research strategies. Nonetheless, this study

focused only on the historical significance of the galleon wreck site in Sto. Domingo, Albay, and

not on the general investigation of shipwrecks found across different parts of the world.

A book entitled World War II Wrecks of the Philippines by Bennett (2015) states that some

of the world's richest lost treasures lie beneath the waters of the Philippines. There are more

than twenty Spanish Galleons, and each loaded with vast fortunes has been lost. Some have

already been located or retrieved, but others are just waiting to be found. In this paragraph's

discussion, the researchers acknowledged that galleon wrecks are not all found, and some are

still waiting to be discovered beneath the ocean bed.

Villamar (2020) stated in his book, Portuguese Merchants in the Manila Galleon System,

that the Manila galleon became part of a more extensive system encompassing other

components in the Spanish Atlantic region and – in an early stage – in the Portuguese

experience in Asia. Consequently, the establishment of the Manila Galleon system was perhaps

the most important result of this process. The wreck in Buhatan Beach will be one of the

significant pieces of information that will be added to the history of Manila Galleons.

In terms of the locale’s history, Perdiz (2017) tackled how Sto. Domingo, Albay, formerly

known as "Li'bog," was part of Ibalon (now renamed to Legazpi) before but became

independent through the efforts of the inhabitants under the secessionist leader Don Domingo

Castellanos, who took the issue to the authorities in Manila. On August 4, 1959,

Congresswoman Tecla S. Ziga enacted the R.A. 2520, formally proclaiming the changing of

Li'bog's name to Sto. Domingo, in coincidence with the feast day of the patron saint in the said
 25

town. Thus, there is no particular reason why Santo is shortened into Sto. Some locals

interchangeably use both in spelling out the town's name.

Several articles proved that a galleon wreck was found along the shores of Sto. Domingo,

Albay. National Museum of the Philippines' Archaeological Researches on the Manila Galleon

Wrecks in the Philippines by Orillaneda and Jago-on (2019) has noted that the first recorded

shipwreck investigation in the Philippines on May 9, 1967, was related to the recovery of

artifacts from a reportedly Manila galleon off the shores of Santo Domingo, Albay. (L. Alba 1984,

Conese 1989). Two massive coral-encrusted anchors, weighing three tons each, were found

approximately 275 meters from the sunken vessel with a forging date of 1649. Kaňková (2022)

has featured in the traveling lifestyle the Buhatan Beach naming it as one of the best beaches to

visit in the Philippines this 2022 fall season. This coastline was described in the article as a

home of a Spanish Galleon wreck serving as a constant reminder of the Manilla to Mexico trade

route used during the Spanish Era. Cebu Philippines has featured on its website the waterscape

of Sto. Domingo, particularly Buhatan Beach, where the historical remains of the galleon wreck

lie under the sea, nine meters from the surface off its shore. This was described as an ideal site

for scuba diving, fishing, and boating. Its Spanish galleon wreck site is a potent reminder of the

rich Manila-to-Acapulco (Mexico) trade routes during the Spanish Era, which Albay takes pride

in. Sorsogon City has featured on its website the Masbate in the Galleon Times. From 1565 until

1815, the Manila Galleons sailed the Pacific Ocean and the China Sea. Throughout the years,

the Manila Galleons traveled through the seas of Masbate on their way to Acapulco in Mexico.

They returned to Manila, most stopping in San Jacinto, Ticao Island.

Four astilleros were built on the Bikol Peninsula during the tenure of Don Juan de Silva:

Dalupaon (located in modern-day Ragay), Bagatan (Bagatao Island at Ybalon), Pantao at Libon,

and Donsol. According to a particular historian, Rogerio H. Escobal, more than 15 galleons were

built on Bagatao Island. The notable ones are: Santisima Trinidad y Sra. Del Buen Fin (1751) –
 26

The most prominent and costliest ship in the 18th century. Nuestra Señora del Buen Socorro

(1667), San Felipe, Santiago – one of the earliest galleons built in Bagatao, San Juan Bautista,

Nuestra Señor del Rosario, San Francisco Javier, Sta. Rosa, Sto Niño, Santo Cristo de Burgos,

Nuestra Señora de los Santos Reyes. This article states that some of the Galleons were made

in Bicol, particularly on Bagatao Island, and Masbate was part of the trade routes of the Manila

Galleons during the Spanish Era.

Now, regarding the wreck found in Buhatan beach, Bennett's book Treasure Ships of the

Philippines (2016) revealed tourist information about Buhatan Beach in Sto. Domingo, Albay,

where a wreck of a Spanish Galleon lies beneath its shores. The book says that it is believed

that the galleon wreck discovered in the waters was the Nuestra Señora de Guia which

reportedly sank in 1744 due to a heavy storm. On the other hand, Ocampo (2001) narrates in

his article how the Galleon wreck in Buhatan Sto. Domingo Albay was found. In 1966, three

adventurous teenage boys from Buhatan Sto. Domingo Albay discovered the Xavier while

spearfishing in the gulf. They paddled to a spot with huge underwater rocks while riding in a

small banca. One of the boys spotted a human-like figure from the sea bottom while swimming

for a giant grouper. The boy panicked and swam to the surface, thinking it was a "sea demon."

He told his friends about the encounter, and the boys decided to look into it despite their fears.

The three boys saw the "sea demon" half sticking from the sand and stoically staring at them.

Nevertheless, as they looked more closely, they saw a life-sized wooden figure half submerged

in the water.

Galo Ocampo, the National Museum's director at the time, led a team of divers to Albay to

do more research after learning of the discovery. The divers, led by former Navy frogman Felix

Ramos, discovered the sunken ship and recovered broken Chinese porcelain, stoneware jars, a

couple of substantial iron anchors, and copper sheathing to protect the wooden hull of the

gigantic ship. Many valuables meant to be sent to Mexico to adorn an ancient cathedral are

believed to be contained in the Xavier. Treasures from ancient ships worth millions of dollars
 27

have been buried in the Philippine waters. According to historians, 80 of the 110 Spanish

galleons said to have been lost sank in Philippine waters. This article gave the researchers

essential background information on how the shipwreck was discovered at Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo Albay.

Since these galleon wrecks were an important part of human history, various archaeologists

and museums suggested and conducted programs to preserve this important aspect of human

history. In collaboration with the Vancouver Maritime Museum, (Williams, 2021) presented a

virtual tour of the galleon wrecks in North America. Due to the limitations on face-to-face

interaction imposed by Covid 19, the tour was conducted remotely, supplemented by

photographs and a slide deck presentation, delivered through the use of modern technology.

Another action was taken by (UNESCO, 2015) in response to the request of Panama in

examining the state of the galleon wreck with the name San José, in the request, it was stated

that they are seeking help to ensure that the features of the wreck were intact and can still be

preserved as it is important for them to exhibit a fragment of the history that the galleon wreck in

their shores once took part in. These are only some of the actions of the government to help

take part in the value that these galleon wrecks have in history. Consequently, the National

Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) removed its funding for the restoration of

heritage sites from the 2021 budget as the government seeks to allocate more funds for the

coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis (Katrina Domingo, ABS-CBN News, 2020). In this

study, the researchers aimed to know if the local government of Sto. Domingo recognized the

galleon wreck site and has done initiatives to address it.

In the realm of education, Galleon wrecks significantly impacted education because of their

involvement in exploration and trade during the Spanish colonial Era. It served as the primary

means of communication between distant countries. According to the Encyclopedia of Latin

American History and Culture(2022), the Manila galleon trade contributed significantly to

Spanish colonial culture. It assisted in the construction of the Philippines' very society, which
 28

relied on Chinese, Malay, and other contributors' money, products, and services. Chinese

goods and art forms are still visible in Hispanic and Native American material culture in Mexico

today. Shipwrecks and galleons have provided rich lessons about our history in Araling

Panlipunan. This is because galleons carry a variety of treasures from the many nations to

which they have traveled throughout their voyages. As more time passed, it gave the historians

an advantage in understanding life in the past through the bits of wealth left in the wreckage.

In terms of peoples’ awareness towards the local history in which the galleon wreck is in,

Kyne (2010) stated in her article that for people to discern history, they need someone to

actually retell it to them since it was one of the most possible way to transfer stories in the past.

She described the difficulty of having folklore in local history since it consisted of stories that are

passed down verbally making it vague. She reiterated that some stories may be highly

imaginative, finding very little historical substance in it. In accordance with the study in

interpreting and understanding the response of the key informants, the researchers are

knowledgeable that the majority of the responses were from folktales of the elderly.

To have an accurate basis for spreading the local history, the leaders of the community,

particularly the local government officials, are responsible in initiating an action to it. However, it

has been discussed by Weinstein in the volume VIII – number I of his article titled, Politics and

Historical Consciousness that there is a need for a post-modern historical consciousness in

order for the government to initiate a sound decision. He stressed that the three forms of

historical consciousness namely; traditional consciousness, modern consciousness, and post-

modern consciousness are essential in understanding what is needed to make a “perfect” post-

modern political decision maker. Thus, it could be inferred that the way to address the need for

the promotion of the historical significance of the galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo,

Albay, local government officials have to acquire the historical consciousness in the post-

modern form.
 29

To know whether the leaders of the municipality are still capable of providing the

residents a means of access to the significance of the local history, this study has identified the

level of awareness of the local government officials regarding the galleon wreck. Their level of

awareness revealed their understanding of the historical significance of the galleon wreck site.

Schuftan, (2022) has noted that the two ways to demean history is to either falsify or diminish

and obliterate it. The alarming consequences of this oblivion of history includes political

struggles. The reason for this are the ‘powerful forces’ that seek to disregard the existence of

history – how the present was influenced by the past, and replace it with something that denies

it.

To underscore the significance of the local history in the tourism and identity of the

locality, the researchers uplift the local government’s appreciation of it through developing a

program that will promote the historical significance of the site. As what Stahle (2016) wrote in

an article for FamilySearch Blog, he stated that “All history is local,” acknowledging one's local

history as a significant component of their identity. Residents ought to weave the history of their

neighborhood into how they live every day to guarantee that cultural heritage is preserved for

future generations. Thus, through the aim of this study which is to promote the local history, the

researchers are making a way in preserving the cultural heritage.

The aim of this study is in consonance with the mandate of the RA 10066 (2009) also

known as National Cultural Act of 2009 which declares policies that will protect, preserve,

conserve and promote the nation’s cultural heritage, its property and histories, and the ethnicity

of local communities. Through enriching the people's awareness on the historical significance of

the galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay, the value of the site is given protection

and conservation. In that way, this study can contribute to inspiring the locals' appreciation of

the events of the past and how it formed the present society.
 30

In the light of strengthening the people's nationalism through Philippine history, RA

10086 (2010) mandates the State to support the researches related to histories. The historical

researches’ contribution needs to include the preservation and conservation of the historical

sites. The site can be improved through popularizing it and to be given priority. It has been

underscored that these historical sites build the identity of the Filipinos and to promote the

common history despite the diversity. In this study, the purpose of identifying the level of

awareness of the community members in terms of the history of the galleon wreck is to uplift the

historical significance of the site. The study developed a program upon adhering to the mandate

of this Act.

Related Studies

A recent study on Oregon's Manila Galleon by La Follette et. Al (2018), reveals the

historical record of a vast shipwreck on Oregon’s north coast with satisfactory evidence that is

present in the Portland State University. Chroniclers from fur trappers, explorers, and early

historians provided a supporting account of Lewis and Clark Expedition stating the trade of

beeswax with the Clatsop people. A wreck of a large ship with a ton of cargo was verified to be

on or near Nehalem Spit. The residents of the coast of Nehalem-Tillamook also traded large

beeswax blocks and delicable blue-and-white chinaware from the cargo. Their first-hand

observations and eyewitnesses on oral traditions were transmitted to other natives. Those

traditional crafts, either fashioned or in their raw, can be sometimes found in the Native

archaeological sites. Other pieces of beeswax and wooden debris still resurface when storms,

waves, and shifting sands occur.

Beyond this Oregon’s recorded history, the details of the occurrence of the wreck and its

effects to the coastal Native communities trigger the curiosity, for two hundred years, of premier
 31

Oregon mystery. From the various pieces of evidence, the shipwrecked is believed to be a

Spanish galleon of Manila-Acapulco trade routes and by that time was crossing the Pacific

Ocean going to Acapulco with traded goods from Asia. The galleon is most possibly the San

Francisco Xavier of 1705 based on the published missing galleons’ lists as it was lost traceless.

Formerly, this hypothesis cannot be proven due to the lack of evidence aside from the cargo

fragments. The same reason why this challenging topic had even been avoided by the scholars

to be studied. The entangled romantic fictions, popular literature, amateur research, unfounded

discovery claims, and treasure-seeker’s tales to the wreck’s particulars have gradually been

cleared due to the archaeological research. As the passage entailed the same with the current

study, the researchers tried to clear and create solid information regarding the said galleon

wreck at Buhatan, Sto. Domingo.

Archaeologists initially identified the Oregon Beeswax wreck as the ship that sailed from

Manila in July 1693 on its way to Acapulco which was the Santo Cristo de Burgos, that

disappeared and has the assumption of being wrecked in the fall or winter of 1963-1964. Its

methodology focused on utilizing geomorphology, geoarchaeology, and artifact analysis,

supplemented by archival fact-checking. Williams' team analyzed the geological features in the

landscape brought by the tsunamis of 1700 to predict the location of the shipwreck materials

prior or later to the tsunami. The debris of the shipwreck proved that the Beeswax shipwreck

before the monumental tsunami of 1700 as there were no such porcelain styles manufactured

after 1700, thus confirming that they originated between 1680-1700. The said Beeswax wreck

must be either of the two missing galleons, the Santo Cristo de Burgos and the San Francisco

Xavier, lost in 1693-1694 and 1705, new archival research focused on the recovery of the

galleons’ all available records in the Archivo General de Indias (AGI) in Seville, Spain. They also

used transliteration and translation of Spanish documents. They also gathered archives of

Santo Cristo de Burgos history from the Philippines and Mexico. Captains of the galleons are
 32

suspected to be Basque – the people who had rules in the construction and oversight of ships,

therefore their biographical information was uncovered by La Follette.

These findings are related to this study in a sense that it both give value to the historical

record of a place in connection to a galleon wreck. The Oregon’s so-called “Beeswax Wreck”

made an imprint on their place and so does the shores of Santo Domingo, Albay for its recorded

wreckage of a galleon. The article also provides a collection of the background of the galleons,

Santo Cristo de Burgos & San Francisco Xavier. These pieces of information build up the

identity of the galleons listed missing.

An archaeological study by Bolunia (2012) entitled Astilleros: The Spanish Shipyards of

Sorsogon, looked into the current status of the shipyards in Sorsogon. These Astilleros, the

Spanish term for shipyards, was the site where the galleons were built and repaired. Areas of

the Sorsogon were chosen to be the Astilleros because of its direct location to the Manila-

Acapulco trade route in addition to the best trees, blacksmiths, and skilled boat-builders

necessary in ship construction. This study is related to the current research whereas it provided

a guarantee that galleon trade indeed crossed the Bicol Region. This study, however, only

covered the site where galleons were constructed and not the galleon wreck.

A study of Kimura (2022) reveals that the Manila galleon San Francisco sank off the

coast of Japan in 1609 after almost two months of sailing through storms and hurricanes that

damaged the ship to the point that it carried more than two meters of water in its hold. In

connection with the researchers’ study, the findings in the aforementioned study proves that

natural disasters such as storms and hurricanes intensively cause shipwrecks which is

technically accurate for the cause of the sunken Spanish galleon ship in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo, Albay.
 33

In the study of Quinata (2019) about the Development of Humåtak Village, which is the

life-line of the Acapulco-Manila Galleon Trade reveals that the Island of Guam became a

strategic location for provisioning and repair of galleons that sailed the Manila Galleon Trade

Route, the first and most powerful economic global trade missions in the Pacific between Spain

and the Philippines. It also became Spain’s main port for galleons that sailed from Acapulco en

route to the Philippines. This study postulates that there are various cases wherein Manila

galleons needed intensive repair in order to avoid possible errors while sailing, and also to avoid

shipwrecks in the worst possible cases. This is connected to the researchers’ study in view of

the fact that the shipwreck in Buhatan possibly faced such errors while seafaring.

Another study by Thomas (2011) states the early development of the Manila Galleon

within a global market framework. It explains that the history of the Manila Galleon brought

economic expansion that was shaped by the actions of merchants, consumers, and government

officials throughout Asia, the Americas, and Europe. Corresponding to this research, historic

sites bring resources and perspectives that can directly advance the struggles of scientific and

political organizations engaged in climate and environmental justice according to Paynter, B.

(2021). This proved that histories of the galleons have an impact on the different sectors of the

community we now live into.

In a study about the Building Spanish Empire by Hancock (2021) he discussed how the

charting of ‘Urdaneta’s Route’ made possible a trans-Pacific galleon trade and the profitable

colonization of the Philippines and other Latin American countries. Soon ships traveled regularly

from Manila to New Spain and a complex trade network evolved that was truly global in nature.

In connection with the researchers’ study, this proves that different trading routes were

established during the Spanish colonization and the galleon trades that were used massively

advantaged the colonizers.

 34

Isorena (2015) reveals that 90 percent of the disasters that caused the shipwrecks

involving Manila galleons occurred in the Philippines, Japan and the Marianas – 70 percent of

which occurred within Philippine coasts and archipelagic waters. Severe weather conditions

were the cause of most of the shipwreck incidents. These discoveries prove that shipwrecks

indeed occurred in the coast of the Philippines. Similar to this study, it examines the shipwrecks.

However, this study will not focus on the root of the shipwrecks.

Jimenez (2020) in his study provides a panoramic vision of the history of Manila-Acapulco

route. In addition to serving as a state of the art of the current research about this topic, a

comprehensive approach is carried out in this paper by including not only the traffic of goods,

but also the movements of people and ideas, as well as the regulations for trade and distribution

among the main actors of the profits extracted from this transpacific journey. The researcher’s

approach in the preceding study connected with the study of the researchers on the Buhatan

Shipwreck in a sense that the researchers included the people and their ideas regarding the

said topic. Their level of awareness, for instance.

The cultural impacts of post-wrecking activities of Manila galleons in the commonwealth of

the Northern Mariana Islands were analyzed in a study by Tan (2020) using archival and

historical research, textual analysis, oral histories, and an ESRI Story Map as a method. It has

also been presented that the trans-Pacific trade network greatly benefitted the Spanish empire

during the 17th century and to the successful Atlantic trade network. This study posits that

shipwrecks brought impacts. Similar to the researchers’ study, it underscores the significance of

the shipwrecks. However, it does not cover the promotion.

The contribution of shipwrecks on the Atlantic expansion of an invasive coral were

scrutinized in a study by Moares, Salani, Paiva, and Braga (2020) by identifying hundreds of

overlooked World War II shipwrecks that may provide stepping-stone habitats for the sun coral
 35

to expand its distribution in the Atlantic. Shipwrecks have a big role in serving as a network of

stepping stones for the sun coral to spread, that will develop complementary pathways for

invasiveness by overcoming physiological characteristics and the coral larvae’s short lifespan.

These findings prove that shipwrecks are significant in sustaining crucial dispersal events and

range expansion of invasive species. With this, the researchers have related it to the study for

the fact that the shipwrecks, specifically Buhatan shipwreck, may also subsidize this process.

Dizon (2016) iterated that the Spanish Galleon San Diego sank on December 14, 1600,

offshore Fortune Island, Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines. The discovery and underwater

archaeological excavation on it were carried out jointly by the National Museum of the

Philippines and a French organization World Wide First (WWF) from 1991 to 1993. This

discovery and excavation allowed archaeologists to examine the volume of material culture for

the first time. Since the majority of the recovered artifacts were intact pieces of "kraak" and

"swatow" goods from the Wanli period (1573-1619) of the Ming Dynasty, trade ceramics in

particular have proven interesting (1368–1644). Also found were trading jars from Burma,

China, Thailand, and Spain. Materials made of earthenware, from the New World and also

those that were produced locally, were quite unusual. With all the artifacts from the Philippines,

China, Southeast Asia, Japan, Spain, Peru, and Mexico gathered at one underwater site, the

San Diego wreck site was like a time capsule. In accordance with this study, the galleon wreck

that was found in Nasugbu, Batangas, was similar to the wreck that was found in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo Albay since the treasures found there are similar to those discovered at the location of

the Galleon wreck in Buhatan Sto. Domingo Albay. Therefore, it is possible that the galleon

wreck in Sto. Domingo also has these treasures that are just waiting to be recovered. This

study, however, only focused on promoting the historical site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo Albay

and not in the treasures that the galleon contained before it submerged in the waters.
 36

Peterson’s (2014) study arrived at the conclusion that although the merchants and trade

goods of East Asia were essential to the trans-Pacific trade, the galleons themselves were built

and maintained in the Philippines using local building materials, labor, and seafaring expertise.

In addition to thousands of Indio laborers supporting the commerce, there were also Spanish

and Chinese traders arriving in Manila. It will be proven that the Philippines had access to a

wide range of essential manpower and natural resources as a part of a thriving Southeast Asian

maritime seafaring society, the foundations of which eventually served as the foundation for

Spain's trans-Pacific endeavors. This study posits that the Galleons were made here in the

Philippines using the local resources that are available in this country as well as how the native

“Indios” of the Philippines played in the creation and maintenance of the Galleon trade.

According to Santos (2021), the findings of her research stressed that the lack of

understanding of local history among learners limits young people from connecting with the

varied history of their town. According to the findings of Santos's research, local history has to

be taught in more creative ways in Advanced Placement courses, and local studies institutions

need to be developed in order to encourage the study of local history. These steps are

necessary to reduce the likelihood of another occurrence that is analogous to the one that

occurred. In a similar vein, the researchers are hoping that the people of Buhatan and all of Sto.

Domingo will become aware of the existence of an important historical place that may help them

promote their region more.

Synthesis of the State of the Art

The reviewed literature and studies deal primarily with the historical records of various

shipwrecks both national and international during the Spanish colonial period, for the

researchers to maximize the data of the ship wreckage in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay and to
 37

attain its historical significance. The reviewed works including those of Bennett (2015), of

Orillaneda and Jago-on (2019), and of Kaňková (2022) introduced the shipwreck in Buhatan,

Sto. Domingo Albay which emphasizes its historical value and the present state of the said site

of wreckage. This allows the site to be known not just in its area but to other neighboring

places.

When it comes to the discoveries of different shipwrecks around the world, the most

possible cause for shipwreck incidents to occur was severe weather conditions (Isorena, 2015)

and natural disasters such as storms and hurricanes (Kimura, 2022). They even made the

Island of Guam the strategic location for provisioning and repairing galleons that sailed the

Manila Galleon Trade Route, which accurately points out that such errors may be encountered

throughout sailing.

Moreover, evidence is identified such that under the waters of the Philippines lie some of

the world’s richest lost treasure and it was said that there are more than twenty Spanish

galleons which have been lost (Bennett, 2015). In fact, the first shipwreck investigation in the

Philippines has been recorded in the National Museum of the Philippines (Orillaneda and Jago-

on, 2019). In connection with this, the Astilleros or shipyards in Sorsogon made it more

guaranteed that galleon trade indeed crossed the Bicol Peninsula (Bolunia, 2012) because

shipyards refer to the site where galleons were built and repaired. Furthermore, Sorsogon was

the location of several shipyards particularly in the towns of Donsol and Pilar making it more

believable as evidence of the galleon trades in Bicol.

The present study is similar to the reviewed research for the reason that it also deals with

shipwreck incidents and its impact on the community’s socioeconomic status during the Spanish

colonial period. The current investigation, however, differs from the previous studies as it

specifically aims to explore and promote the Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto.
 38

Domingo, Albay. The current study’s locale and respondents are also distinct from previous

studies. Finally, the present study seeks to develop recommendations for promoting the

Spanish galleon wreck site in Sto. Domingo, Albay. Furthermore, the other authors and

researchers did not consider this.

Gap bridged by the Study

This study focused on promoting the significance of the shores in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo,

Albay with regards to its historical record – the galleon wreck, which wasn’t yet studied by other

researchers. Studies related to this only cover the investigations about the wreckage found in

the site, the possible galleon that has wrecked there, and the possible reasons of the galleon

wreck. There is limited educational material regarding the galleon wreck.

The related studies aimed to trace the history of this galleon wreck. Similarly, the related

articles featured the recorded wrecks in different areas that were included in the Manila-

Acapulco trade routes. This study utilized these existing records in bridging the gap of the

research – to determine the level of awareness of the community regarding this historical event

and the ways to uplift it.

Theoretical Framework

This study is anchored on the theory of Historicism which was developed out of

dissatisfaction with the theories of unilineal socio-cultural evolution by Charles Darwin E.B.

Tylor, J. McLennan, and Sir John Lubbock; Kirkpatrick’s theory of Assessment, and the GEI’s

Programme Theory.
 39

Firstly, the theory of Historicism argues that all knowledge and cognition are historically

conditioned. This was also widely used to denote a historical viewpoint approach across a

variety of areas. Consequently, historicism is a popular school of thought that opposed a

progressive interpretation of history that saw it as a linear, uniform process that followed a set of

rules. The significance of establishing particular techniques and theories that are relevant to

each distinct historical setting was emphasized by historicism, which also emphasized the

distinctive diversity of historical circumstances in different contexts. In relation with the

presented theory, it is related to the researchers’ study in a sense that the researchers will look

into the status in promoting the Spanish galleon shipwreck which particularly links the

historicist’s perspective which focuses on tracing the historical development of specific cultures

rather than on the construction of a grand evolutionary account of the progress. Figure 1 shows

the first theoretical paradigm of the study which is Theory of Historicism.

The theory of Assessment on the other hand, presents the four levels of evaluation and

each successive evaluation level is linked with information provided by the lower level.

Assessment begins with level 1, the reactions which measures how participants react to the

program; level 2, the learning pertains to assess the extent students have advanced in skills,

knowledge, and attitude; level 3, transfer which measures the transfer that has occurred in the

learner’s behavior, and ; level 4, result refers to the measurement of success of the program in

terms of overall mission of an organization served by the learner. The analysis of the

information from the following level is based on the information from each prior level. As a

result, each level that comes after it indicates a more accurate measurement while also

requiring a more thorough and time-consuming investigation. Apropos to the researchers’ study,

it relates in a way that the successive levels of assessment provides a more detailed process

when it comes to how the study would affect the residents’ perception, views, and knowledge
 40

about the shipwreck in their locale. Figure 1.1 shows the second theoretical paradigm of the

study which is Theory of Assessment.

Programme Theory describes how an intervention—a project, a program, a policy, or a strategy

—is thought to contribute to a series of outcomes that lead to the intended or actual impacts. It

can be a highly helpful tool for bringing together the evidence that already exists about a

program, identifying areas of agreement and dispute over how the program is perceived to

function, as well as any evidence gaps. In connection with this, the researchers’ study aims to

explore and promote the historical significance of the shipwreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo,

Albay. In this sense, developing a program is a big factor with regards to the intervention that

the researchers wanted to happen in the said locale. Understanding the whole cases of

producing functional projects for the promotion of the wreck site and seeking knowledge on how

the local government unit of Sto. Domingo, Albay promoted the wreck site in Buhatan. Is there

any program or project they had in mind for the site? Or did someone already propose

something like this to them perchance?

Figure 1 shows the third theoretical paradigm of the study which is Programme

Theory.
 41

KNOWLE COGNI
DGE
HISTO
TION

Figure 1. Theoretical Paradigm

(Historicism)
 42

ASSESSMENT

LEVEL 1:
REACTION

LEVEL 2:
LEARNING

LEVEL 3:
TRANSFER

LEVEL 4:
RESULT

Figure 1.1. Theoretical Paradigm

(Assessment)
 43

INTERVENTION

SERIES OF
OUTCOMES

INTENDED
IMPACTS

Figure 1.2. Theoretical Paradigm

(Programme)
 44

Conceptual Framework

While the researchers were wondering about the current way of living people are

accustomed to deal with, they tend to view the existing phenomena as the influencing factor of

the modern repercussions. But oftentimes, people overlook the past scenarios of their locale

which, in many aspects, provided them identity. This research study entitled Historical

Significance of the Spanish Galleon Wreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay aimed to enliven

the past through exploring and promoting the significance of the local history of a galleon wreck

site. The researchers looked into the current status of the site considering its improvements

imposed by the LGU. The level of awareness about this galleon wreck of the AP teachers in

Sto. Domingo, the Buhatan residents, LGU officials, and tourism industry key players were

likewise scrutinized. This study also included the project or program that may be proposed to

promote the historical significance of the site.

Figure 2 shows the conceptual paradigm of the study.

 45

Current Status of the

Spanish Galleon Wreck
in Buhatan, Sto.
Domingo, Albay

Level of Awareness
on the Galleon Wreck
Among its Community
Members

Project or program to
be proposed to
promote the historical
significance of the
site.

Figure 2. Conceptual Paradigm

 46

Definition of Terms

The following terms used in the study are defined conceptually and/or operationally to ensure

clarity and better understanding.

Araling Panlipunan Teachers. An educator who instructs students in a wide range of topics

that relate to understanding and contributing to societies around the world. In this study, they

are referred to as teachers of the basic education teaching Araling Panlipunan subject in Sto.

Domingo, Albay National High school.

Buhatan Residents. Refers to someone who lives at a particular place for a prolonged period

or who was born there. (Vocabulary, 2023) In this study they are referred to as the community

members of barangay Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay.

Galleon Wreck. It refers to the damaged remains of a large sea-going vessel that washes to

shore or sinks to the bottom of the ocean. (Vocabulary, 2023) In this study, this refers to the

galleon on the shore of Buhatan, Sto Domingo, Albay.

Galleon Wreck Site. The site of a shipwreck. (WordSense Dictionary 2023) In this study, this

refers to the actual place in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay where the study will be conducted.

Historical significance. Historical significance is a decision that modern people make about

what is important from our past. (History Skills, 2023) In this study, this refers to the importance

of the galleon wreck in Buhatan to history.

Local Government Unit Officials. Means an elected or appointed official of a local government

but does not include an employee of a local government. (Law Insider, 2023) In this study, they

are referred to as municipal officers and barangay officials of Sto Domingo Albay and they will

also be one of the research respondents in this study.

 47

Local Government initiatives. The term shall mean a form of cooperation of local government

units with inhabitants to jointly affect a public task to the benefit of the local community. (Law

Insider, 2023) In this study, this refers to the programs that the LGU officials instigated to

promote the significance of the galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay.

Local history education. Education history refers to studying past educational systems,

practices, theories, and institutional development within the economic, social, scientific, and

political framework of various communities over time. (Homework.study, 2023) In this study, it is

the inclusion of the galleon wreck to the history education of the basic education in the

municipality.

Program. A plan of action to accomplish a specified end. (Dictionary, 2023) In this study this

refers to the materials and the recommendatory projects that the LGU may implement to

promote the historical significance of the galleon wreck.

Materials. The elements, constituents, or substances of which something is composed or can

be made. (Merriam Webster, 2023) In this study, this pertains to a document or recorded

presentation that will entail the historical record of the galleon wreck site.

Status. Refer to the situation at the present time. (Cambridge Dictionary, 2023) In this study this

refers to the current state of the galleon wreck.

Site development. Refers to designed physical improvements or modifications to the campus

landscape, excluding utilities and buildings. (APPA, 2023) In this study, this pertains to the

location of the galleon wreck and whether or not it has anything that would draw attention to the

galleon that was discovered there.

 48

Tourism development. Planning and implementation of strategies with the objective to develop

the tourism sector. (IGI Global, 2023) In this study, this is the tourism inclined actions done to

promote the galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay.

Tourism industry. It is a comprehensive industry involving many industries such as hospitality,

transportation, tourist destinations, travel companies, and more, by focusing on tourism, which

is defined as people traveling and staying in places outside their usual environment for less than

one year in a row for leisure, business, health or other reasons. (Satista, 2021) In this study, it is

described as the key players of the tourism industry such as the tourism officers, tourist guides,

bloggers, and divers.

Tourism officers. A tourism officer is someone who works to develop and enhance the visitor

facilities of a region and to stimulate tourism growth in order to produce economic benefits for a

particular region or site. (Gradireland, 2023) In this study, this refers to the tourism officers of

the LGU Sto. Domingo, that will be one of the key informants in this study.

PTCAO. Albay Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office is the official tourism and promotion

arm of the Provincial Government of Albay. In this study, this organization will help the

researchers to gather necessary information regarding the Galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo Albay.
 CHAPTER 3

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

This chapter presented the discussion of the research method, the sources of data, the

key informants, the data gathering procedure, and the research instrument used in the study.

Research Method

This study made use of descriptive method of research. The descriptive method of

research is aimed at casting light on current issues or problems through a process of data

collection that enables them to describe the situation more completely than was possible without

employing this method. (Fox & Bayat, 2007) In this study, it was used to describe the current

status of the Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay in terms of its

development, local government initiatives, tourism development, and local history education.

Also, in describing the level of awareness of the galleon wreck among the Buhatan residents,

LGU officials, AP teachers, and tourism industry as well as the project or program proposal to

promote the historical significance of the site.

Sources of Data

The primary source of data in this study will be the observation sheet that will be prepared

in describing the current status of the galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay with

regards to its site development, the interviews to the key informants particularly the LGU

officials, tourism officers, and the oral histories or commentaries from the different sectors of

Buhatan residents. Likewise, the responses of the teachers in the questionnaires that will be

provided.
 50

In developing a material that will raise the historical significance of the galleon wreck site,

secondary sources were utilized such as the existing literature and studies regarding the galleon

wreck as well as the oral histories from the elderly residents of Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay.

Similarly, recorded interviews from local government officials, tourism officers and other tourism

industry key players and the responses of Araling Panlipunan teachers in Sto. Domingo

National High School will also be included.

The project or program proposal to the local government unit in order to promote the

historical significance of the site utilized collected data from the key informants specifically the

level of awareness on the galleon wreck among the residents of Buhatan, local government unit

officials, Araling Panlipunan teachers, and the tourism industry key players – tourist guides,

bloggers, and divers. The observations on the site development and the possible improvements

that may be suggested and the material that will be developed will be likewise included. The

existing historical records or literature about the galleon wreck will also be used as the

supporting details in making the proposal.

Key Informants

The key informants of this study are; first, the local government unit. In order to identify

the local government initiatives with regards to the site’s current status, the local government

unit of Sto. Domingo, Albay including the barangay officials of barangay Buhatan be

interviewed. These officials included the mayor, the counselor who is the committee of natural

resources and environment, the municipal administrator, and the barangay captain of Buhatan.

Second, the tourism officers of Sto. Domingo to get the information on the site’s tourism

development. The local history education, on the other hand, is identified through the school
 51

administration of Buhatan Elementary School and Sto. Domingo National High School which

comprises the principal/school head and the head of the AP department.

In identifying the level of awareness of the Buhatan residents on the galleon wreck,

different community sectors of the barangay were interviewed such as the fisherfolk, the elderly,

and the professionals. The LGU officials consist of the mayor, vice mayor, councilors, barangay

captain and the barangay councilors of Buhatan including the barangay treasurer. The AP

teachers entailed all the teachers teaching Araling Panlipunan in Sto. Domingo National High

School and Buhatan Elementary School. The tourism industry comprises the head of the

tourism department of Sto. Domingo and other tourism industry key players such as the divers.

Data Gathering Procedure

In identifying the site development of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo, Albay, the researchers visited Barangay Buhatan. The barangay officials were

informed about the study being conducted. And with the use of the observation sheet, the

researchers recorded the current status of the site. The researchers visited the barangay hall of

Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay and the Barangay Captain were interviewed. The researchers

also visited the municipal hall of Sto. Domingo to interview the municipal administrator to gather

the municipal records on the mentioned galleon wreck site including the local government

initiatives to promote the historical significance of the site. The data on the inclusion of the

galleon wreck’s historical significance to the local history education were gathered from the

administrator of Sto. Domingo National High School through an interview.

The researchers also visited the tourism office and met the head of the tourism

department in order to gather the information about the site’s tourism development. The

researchers interviewed the head of the tourism department and asked for the records of the
 52

tourism office regarding the mentioned galleon wreck site. The researchers asked for a copy of

the records and the oral information from the tourism department head should be likewise

recorded.

In order to get the level of awareness on the galleon wreck among the Buhatan

residents, the researchers sent a letter to the Barangay Captain asking permission about

interviewing the barangay officials and the selected key informants in the community. Likewise,

the researchers also sent a letter to the municipality of Sto. Domingo prior to interviewing the

LGU officials of Sto. Domingo, Albay with the municipal Mayor as the addressee. A letter of

request was similarly sent to the head of the AP department in Sto. Domingo National High

School to request a consent in gathering the data from the AP teachers of the said school. The

same procedures were applied in getting the level of awareness of the key players of the

tourism industry. When consent was given, the questionnaires were distributed to the AP

teachers and tourism industry.

The researchers used the existing literature on the galleon wreck in order to develop a

program or project that raises the awareness of the historical significance of the site. The data

gathered from the tourism office, LGU, AP teachers, and tourism industry would be likewise

used in the development of the said material. The project or program to be proposed should be

based on the level of awareness of the key informants and from the current status of the site.

The researchers shall coordinate with the Sto. Domingo LGU to help the researchers in

disseminating the program or project developed.

Research Instrument

The researchers formulated an observation sheet and interview guides. The observation

sheet was used in order to record the current status site of the galleon wreck in terms of its site

development. The interview guides were utilized in identifying the local government initiatives,
 53

tourism development, and local history education and in identifying the level of awareness

among the Buhatan residents, LGU officials, AP teachers, and tourism industry.

There was no research instrument needed in developing the program that would help

promote the historical significance of the site. The said program was developed based on the

data gathered from the key informants and from the existing literature on the historical record of

the galleon wreck. The description on the level of awareness of the community members was

also used in developing the program proposal. The instruments that were formulated were

validated by the research adviser, research professor, and three (3) experts.
 54

Chapter IV
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

This chapter presents the data gathered to answer the problems as well as their

analysis and interpretation. The data are presented and analyzed in the same order as stated in

the problem, namely, (1) the status of the galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay in

terms of (a) site development, (b) local government initiatives, (c) tourism development, and (d)

local history education, (2) the level of awareness on the galleon wreck among (a) local

residents, (b) local government officials, (c) Araling Panlipunan teachers, and (d) tourism

industry, and (3) the program developed to promote the historical significance of the site.

In consonance with the RA 10086 (2010) also known as National Cultural Act of 2009

declares policies that will protect, preserve, conserve and promote the nation’s cultural heritage,

its property and histories, and the ethnicity of local communities, the researchers initiated to

conduct a study that aims to promote the historical significance of the galleon wreck site located

at Barangay Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay. This site wherein there was a recovered relic of a

galleon used in Manila-Acapulco trade during the Spanish era was not given much discernment.

Considering the significant contribution of the site to the local history of the said municipality, the

researchers believe that its existence should not be put in vain. As a matter of truth, Orillaneda

and Jago-on (2019) on the National Museum of the Philippines’ Archaeological Researches on

the Manila Galleon Wrecks in the Philippines has noted that the recovery of the remains of this

galleon was related to the first recorded shipwreck investigation in the Philippines.

In support of the aim of this study, the researchers gathered the relevant data needed to

know the current status of the site. The researchers used a site observation guide to determine

the site development. In identifying its status along local government initiatives, local history
 55

education, and tourism development, the researchers interviewed the local government officials

of Sto. Domingo, the AP teachers of Sto. Domingo National High School, and the municipal

tourism officer. The level of awareness of the local residents, AP teachers, LGU officials and

tourism industry was also identified through interviews. Based on the key informants’ responses

and the researchers’ observations, a program that will promote the history of the site was

likewise developed.

STATUS OF THE SPANISH GALLEON WRECK IN BUHATAN, STO. DOMINGO, ALBAY

To highlight the significance of local history, the site in which the historic event has

happened has to be given discernment. It needs to undergo preservation, conservation,

development and promotion. In the course of this study, the researchers proceeded to the site

and interviewed the respective community members in order to determine the current status of

the galleon wreck that occurred in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay. In determining the site's

current status, the researchers have studied the site based on its site development, local

government initiatives, tourism development, and the local history education in the locality.

SITE DEVELOPMENT

The Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay has not undergone

development. At first glance, it can be regarded as a typical beach without a built indication of its

contribution to the local history of the town considering its historical significance. There are no

visible site developments that were undertaken. There is not a visible sign at the precise spot

where the wreck of the galleon was found that would chronicle the history of the aforementioned

galleon. Because of this, the site is not a tourist attraction and has not been given enough
 56

attention. However, it is currently under a development project, there is a construction of a road

which was built around the sea leveled on the seawall. The exact point where the galleon wreck

was found is located in the southeastern part of the sea, close to a large stone that is only

visible during low tide. It was now covered by the seawall and a road. The image below shows

the site's condition and the traditional location of the wreck although there is no available source

of information to validate it or point to another location.

Plate 1. Galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay

To reach the said beach, there are different types of private automobiles that can drive

the way there. On the other hand, if you are a commuter, the area can be reached through a

tricycle. En route to the site, there are no sidewalks built and are surrounded by mountains. In

connection with this, even in terms of road development routing to Buhatan, there are no

initiatives taken in order to enrich the site’s condition.

In terms of promoting the site, the local government since the last administrations

weren't able to initiate programs that preserve the historical value of the site. As vice mayor M.
 57

Aguas (personal communication, April 25, 2023) said, “Wala pa eh siguro mame-mention ko

yan kay mayor Jun.” When the researchers’ asked for their plans, they seemed to be interested

in promoting it and shared some of the possible programs that may promote the site. Councilor

C. Binamira (personal communication, April 25, 2023) said, “Kumbaga, lagan ta ki, magkaigwa

ki site kuta para diyan sa pag-promote kaiyan.”

Unfortunately, there are no photographs preserved by the LGU nor the barangay that

may serve as a proof of the wreck aside from what is posted on an online website which is

actually unclear. There is just one artifact preserved for the remains of the wreck. A part of the

anchor was converted into a knife by a then police officer. Originally, the knife was a piece of

corrosive metal extracted from the anchor chain of Spanish galleon found in the waters of

Barangay Buhatan in 2006. It was given as a gift to the former mayor of the municipality who is

the current Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Bicol. The artifact is under the

custody of the said former mayor. Plate 2, an image of the Rambo knife is presented after this

paragraph.
 58

Plate 2. An artifact of the galleon wreck

Photo courtesy: Vice Mayor Mark

With the above data presented, it is implied that the information about the galleon wreck

was not disseminated. The site was not prioritized by the local government unit. Thus, there is a

need to uplift the understanding of the local government officials to the significance of the site.

Whereas there are no initiatives that may preserve nor promote the history that is incorporated

in the site, it could mean an absence of supporting written records of the local history.

The importance of preserving and promoting the historic sites is tantamount to

enlivening the valuable past events. Providing research on its history is supported in the RA

10086 (2010), which states that the State shall reinvigorate government support for historical

research; and sustaining and enhancing programs for the protection, preservation and

conservation of historical relics and memorabilia, monuments, sites and other historical
 59

resources. The State shall likewise give utmost priority not only to the research on history but

also to the popularization of history. In this way, the State will be able to build a Philippine

national identity based on unity and pride in diversity held together by a common history.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES

In terms of local government initiatives, the researchers identified three factors that can

be used to assess the state of the galleon wreck. This includes awareness, initiatives

implemented, and suggestions to promote the site. Hence, the researchers came to the

conclusion that the local government officials of Sto. Domingo, Albay has done nothing for the

improvement of the galleon wreck, there are no plans or any signs of improvement anywhere in

the municipality. However, realizations were perceived and they became more interested about

the galleon wreck in Buhatan.

Most of the interviewed officials of barangay Buhatan are aware about the galleon wreck

but they just have limited information about it and only heard it from hearsays. J. Bañadera

stated that “because the galleon sank in the shores of Buhatan, the wreck serves as a symbol of

the community and is an essential piece of Sto. Domingo’s local history.” (personal

communication, April 18, 2023) In fact, he claimed that the galleon wreck had attracted people

to the area at the time and tourists had been visiting the site back then trying to know more

about the ship wreckage. In the case of initiatives from the Barangay of Buhatan, there is no

concrete plan or program about the galleon wreck in their locality. However, these barangay

officials are more than willing to participate if ever there will be an ordinance to develop the site

since most of them solely recognize the historical significance of it. They were also able to share

their thoughts and ideas on how to improve the site such as making it a tourist spot by building
 60

infrastructures in the area, creating an information or bulletin board containing photos and

information about the ship wreckage.

In the executive branch, J. Aguas explained that “he is aware but his knowledge is

limited when it comes to its history.” (personal communication, April 18, 2023) While most of the

interviewees from the legislative branch of the Municipality of Sto. Domingo is also aware of the

galleon shipwreck in Buhatan. Some of them only know limited information while others are

unaware of the history of the galleon wreck. The legislative branch of Sto. Domingo shared their

ideas on the programs or projects that may be utilized to promote and develop the galleon

wreck site. This includes having symbolic buildings or a parola, according to (A. Balbin, personal

communication, April 18, 2023), R. Balilo even gave emphasis on his statement about “the

preservation and dissemination of the historical significance of the site and plans to make an

ordinance to include its information for a certain hour in teaching history.” (personal

communication, April 18, 2023) Although some municipal councilors didn’t give specific ideas

about the plans in promoting the site, they became interested in this matter and willing to learn

more about the galleon. It was also mentioned that there are people who are interested in

helping in the development of the site, but they are not in the private sector. M. Aguas actually

shared that “maybe for now, he may take legislative measures or resolutions to encourage

Barangay Buhatan to take care of the site and also to encourage the chairman of tourism to

promote the site.” (personal communication, April 18, 2023) Whereas J. Aguas said that they

have plans to develop the site, but for now, it should remain untouched for the reason that they

need to obtain permission first from the National Historical Institute (National Historical

Commission of the Philippines at present) for them to do something about the site. (personal

communication, April 18, 2023)

One negative factor that suppresses the site from being developed is due to the lack of

records or absence of documentation about this historical phenomenon. With this, creating an
 61

efficient program for the promotion and development of the site can be quite challenging.

Another thing is that there is not enough budget to support this alignment. Especially because of

the fact that the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) removed its funding

for the restoration of heritage sites from the 2021 budget as the government seeks to allocate

more funds for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis (Katrina Domingo, ABS-CBN

News, 2020). No current ordinances were implemented about this since it has been enacted.

If initiatives for site development keeps on being hindered by these factors, the value of

this historical site may completely be forgotten by the people, especially its local populace. The

loss for contribution to environmental sustainability may also be a result of this inattentiveness

such that preserving natural resources, including outstanding sites containing some of the

richest combinations of terrestrial and marine biodiversity, is obviously a fundamental

contribution to environmental sustainability (UNESCO World Heritage Centre, n.d.).

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

Based on the data gathered, it appears that there are several factors that contribute to

the status of the galleon wreck along tourism development in Brgy. Buhatan Sto. Domingo

Albay. The natural resources such as the marine sanctuaries and the beaches were identified

as the primary attraction for the tourists. However, cultural attractions in which the galleon wreck

belong and the festivals such as the Sarung Bangi festival of Sto. Domingo and the Kwaw

Festival of Buhatan were also important factors. However, the local history about the galleon

wreck was overlooked due to these said Festivals.

Online promotion was one of the aspects that is crucial for tourism development. It is

one of the most effective ways to attract tourists and help them find a nice place to choose for

their destination. Based on the response provided by the Tourism officer, it has been
 62

ascertained that there exist websites accessible through Google which feature the Spanish

galleon wreck located in Brgy. Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay. However, Ms. Himor holds the

viewpoint that such inclusion does not serve as a promotion for tourists to visit the site due to

the absence of the remnants of the wreck, thereby leaving nothing for the tourists to observe

upon their visitation. “I don’t think so because wala na siya don, so hindi talaga siya actually

napo- promote kase… parang nagkakaroon lang siya ng historical significance since dito siya

nag sunk. Pero hindi siya naging tourist spot kasi wala naman na talaga siya dito.” (A. Himor

personal communication, April 25, 2023) Conversely, contrary to the assertions made by Ms.

Himor, there are online platforms that include the Spanish Galleon Wreck within the lists of

tourism destinations in Albay, encouraging tourists to visit the site.

In terms of promotional strategies, an additional approach involves the utilization of

promotional materials such as brochures, fliers, or pamphlets to attract tourists to visit the

galleon wreck site. However, according to the response provided by the tourism officer, there is

an absence of materials specifically highlighting or promoting the galleon wreck to tourists

visiting Sto. Domingo, Albay. Additionally, no photographs of the wreck are available through

the tourism office, except for an unclear image obtained from the internet, which was shared

with researchers. Nevertheless, despite the lack of promotional materials, Ms. Himor asserts

that the tourism office still provides explanations and information to tourists inquiring about the

galleon wreck. On the other hand, when asked about their knowledge of online platforms

promoting the galleon wreck, divers did not give a direct response regarding their awareness of

such websites. Furthermore, the divers lack materials to promote the site as well. However,

when asked about the influence of these websites on encouraging tourist visits, their response

was uncertain. Because they indicated that diving activities in historical sites like the galleon

wreck in Buhatan are strictly prohibited, particularly without the necessary permits.
 63

As mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the beaches and marine sanctuaries in Sto.

Domingo, Albay, serve as significant factors in attracting tourists to the destination. Notably, the

tourism office has conceived an idea to promote the site by leveraging the presence of the

marine sanctuaries. Despite the removal of the galleon remnants, Ms. Himor confirmed that the

site continues to be promoted due to the proximity of the marine sanctuaries. However, it should

be noted that the divers, conversely, do not actively promote the site to tourists.

When asked about whether she had received any training that would enhance her

proficiency in promoting the aforementioned site, her response was none, indicating that she

had not undergone any such training. Nevertheless, she expressed her willingness to attend

any training if made available. Conversely, the divers, in contrast, have undergone a

comprehensive training program organized and authorized by the National Museum. During this

training, hired divers were instructed on the proper techniques for retrieving delicate remnants

without causing damage. Additionally, the divers were trained in a method known as dredging,

wherein the National Museum provided equipment similar to underwater vacuums, specifically

designed for the retrieval of submerged treasures. The divers were instructed on the proper

utilization of this equipment to safely extract artifacts from sunken ships. While the training

primarily focused on imparting skills related to artifact retrieval, it included limited content

pertaining to historical aspects.

In order to attract tourists and stimulate the local economy of Barangay Buhatan as well

as the town of Sto. Domingo Albay at large, it is imperative to establish an effective and tangible

program that promotes the historical significance of the Galleon Wreck site in Buhatan. Despite

the fact that the remnants of the galleon were not anymore present on the site, the local

governments and the tourism sectors can still highlight the significant contribution of the site to

the local history similar to the notable tourism initiatives of the McArthur Landing on Leyte and

the Gibalon Shrine in Magallanes, which were also implemented by local governments and
 64

tourism sectors to highlight the historical value of those sites. The tourism department of Sto.

Domingo, Albay, should also contemplate the implementation of a similar initiative aimed at

effectively promoting the historical significance of the Spanish Galleon Wreck site in Buhatan.

So when questioned about the possible actions or programs she could undertake as a

tourism officer to promote the site, the tourism officer expressed her idea to organize diving

activities that would showcase the area where the galleon sank. She believes that conducting

diving activities in that location would serve as a compelling approach to highlight its historical

significance. The divers echo her sentiment and strongly advocate for people to engage in

scuba diving activities near the site.

Based on the data and information provided, it can be inferred that a comprehensive

approach encompassing natural resources, cultural attractions, promotions, and well-designed

plans or programs is vital for the development of tourism along the site of the Galleon Wreck in

Buhatan. However, an analysis of the responses from both the tourism officer and the divers

indicates a limited awareness regarding the historical aspects of the Galleon wreck.

Furthermore, there is a lack of active promotion and development initiatives specifically

dedicated to the site. The primary focus of the tourism industry seems to be on the beaches and

marine sanctuaries, with no prior or current programs implemented for the promotion and

development of the Galleon Wreck site.

According to Harper (2020), well-known and captivating landmarks contribute to a sense

of security and timelessness in a changing environment. The preservation and promotion of

historical structures and natural areas play a vital role in safeguarding a nation's memory, akin

to the cherished sentiments evoked by childhood toys or old photographs. The neglect of

promoting and supporting tourism can hinder the preservation and promotion of these valuable

cultural assets. It implies that a lack of emphasis on promoting the historical significance of a
 65

site could lead to a loss of cultural heritage. Historical sites often hold essential narratives,

artifacts, and knowledge that contribute to a community's identity and comprehension of its past.

Without adequate promotion, these sites may be overlooked or forgotten over time, resulting in

a gradual erosion of cultural heritage.

The lack of promotion and development initiatives surrounding historical sites can have

several notable effects. Firstly, there is the issue of Lack of Awareness and Appreciation, as

promotion plays a pivotal role in raising awareness and fostering appreciation for these sites.

When the historical significance is not actively promoted, both local residents and tourists may

remain unaware of the site's importance. This lack of awareness can lead to missed

opportunities for learning, exploration, and engagement with the site's historical and cultural

value.

Secondly, there is the matter of Economic Impact. Historical sites possess the potential

to drive tourism and stimulate local economies. When the historical significance is not

adequately promoted, fewer visitors may be drawn to the site, resulting in a decline in tourism

revenue. This, in turn, can have a negative impact on local businesses that rely on tourism,

such as hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, which may suffer financial setbacks. The

promotion of historical sites, on the other hand, has the potential to attract visitors, create

employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the region.

In summary, the lack of promotion and development initiatives can result in the

aforementioned effects. Without adequate attention and resources directed towards the tourism

industry, this significant site may not receive the recognition and appreciation it deserves.

Consequently, the memory and cultural heritage of the place could be at risk of being

overlooked or forgotten over time. It is of utmost importance to actively promote and preserve

historical sites to safeguard their significance and ensure their continued relevance and value.
 66

LOCAL HISTORY EDUCATION

After conducting an analysis of the collected data, the researchers determined that, in

terms of local history education, the status of the Spanish Galleon wreck in Buhatan is

preserved due to the efforts of the key informants in incorporating it into their class discussions

if the topics are appropriate. Efforts include incorporating the event into classroom discussions

and emphasizing its significance during school events to ensure that it remains a memorable

part of the local community. Numerous residents were oblivious of the significance of the

galleon tragedy in their local history because the event was not emphasized in their schools or

because the government has not made it accessible to the public. Thus, the researchers

concluded three themes that emerged from the data collected that will be presented in the

following paragraphs.

Awareness. When it came to knowledge, the key informants were fully aware of the

incident in which Buhatan had a role in the galleon history that occurred during the time of trade

between Manila and Acapulco. The rich information that arose from the incident was only

treasured for a short time since the individuals who visited the site were either the government

or divers interested in the riches of the sunken galleon, leaving the people with only legends to

tell the next generation. The rich information that resulted from the event was only treasured for

a short time. Buhatan Elementary School, which is the only school in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo,

for students up to the age of adolescence, has never missed to emphasize the incident of the

galleon crash as part of the school curriculum in the subject social studies.

Six key informants from the aforementioned school were delighted to provide information

to the researchers about the status of local history education in their school regarding the

Spanish galleon wreck. F. Serrano describes the pupils, saying, "...may kanal pairarom, may

nag iilaw ito palan, may nag da-dive." (A canal leads deep into the sea, something has lights,

and someone is diving.) (personal communication, April 18, 2023) When she incorporates the
 67

topic of galleons into her social studies classes, her students would actively participate, sharing

various versions of what they know, from who they got the information from, and who tells the

truth among them. That is when the teacher would organize everyone's ideas. She also told the

researchers about their school paper, "The Galleon," where its name was inspired by the event

that occurred on the shores of Buhatan, Sto. Domingo Albay. L. Aquino adds additional

information on how well the pupils were aware of the said event “the mural of the galleon was

actually done by some students, located right near the entrance of the school. (personal

communication, April 18, 2023) (Refer to Plate no. 3 for reference) On the other hand, A.

Astillero said that “she had not only heard about the story of the galleon, but that she had

actually seen it when she was in the first grade, and that the wreck site would be visited by

American divers hoping to retrieve the remnants of the galleon that had crashed. She

remembers well the American divers placing the rusty "cadenas'' in the sari-sari store that they

owned.” (personal communication, April 18, 2023) Because of this, she was able to have a

better understanding of the importance of Buhatan's role throughout history education of the

place. During her time in high school, she recalled hearing about the galleon crash incident, but

she just recalls hearing about it in a generic sense and not having precise facts about it

covered. She has written-ups that present the history of Buhatan that are incorporated in the

topic Araling Panlipunan so that her students may have a better knowledge of the history that

their region has dating back many generations. Her participation in this activity is a means

through which she raises awareness regarding the occurrence described above.

Then, the researchers went to Sto. Domingo National High School (SDNHS) and

interviewed three (4) teachers from the Araling Panlipunan faculty, all three (3) key informants

were aware of the galleon wreck event that took place in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo; however, in

order for people to actually believe the said event, they needed solid evidence to support their

thoughts and beliefs, so they were unable to truly support the people's claims that the sunken
 68

ship took place. In order for teachers to be able to include the topic into their subject, social

studies, they needed to have access to sufficient resources and sufficient knowledge to

adequately explain the topic to their students. Due to the fact that the teachers were not

provided with adequate proof and factual basis for the stated claim, they made the decision not

to include the whole history of the sunken galleon catastrophe in their locality out of concern that

they would provide children with material that was not trustworthy. They instead talk to their

learners about the galleon trade as part of the history of the Philippines in a bigger context as

part of the curriculum in Araling Panlipunan.

Therefore, the key informants who were interviewed probably were aware of the

Spanish galleon that sank in the grounds of their barrio, and they are integrating this information

into discussions where it is pertinent. The interview replies served as the basis for developing

the codes. The teachers may take comfort in the fact that they are preserving the history and

lore of their barrio for future generations. This assumption has also been raised by Santos

(2021), who claims in her research that learners only have a surface-level grasp of the history of

the area where they live. In most cases, the teachers have also given their insights to school-

based projects that raise awareness of the cultural heritage and the history of their learner’s

local community. Reiterating the necessity of incorporating local history into the topic that the

students are studying, Araling Panlipunan, in order to assist them in gaining knowledge about

the catastrophic galleon tragedy that took place on the grounds of their neighborhood.

Context Integration. When it came to the incident being brought up in classroom

discussions, just a few of the key informants remembered hearing about it when they were

younger and in school. On the other hand, several of the key informants included information

about the galleon accident in their lectures. Since having a perspective on one's own history is

one of the most significant factors in determining a person's overall identity, it is essential for

learners to develop not just the skills and knowledge they need for the future, but also an
 69

understanding of their own history. Students in Sto. Domingo are taught the subject called

Araling Panlipunan at their schools to assist them in remembering their past and the

significance of doing so. This is due to the fact that education, in its role as the ideal learning

environment, has the responsibility of ensuring that these aspects of students' self-development

are not ignored.

A. Balbin stated that “she had attended school in her hometown of Sto. Domingo, and

that she recalled the topic being brought up in her younger years of education, particularly in

elementary and high school; however, it was not necessarily formal as she said, but rather a

casual talk after discussion of the world trade and Philippine history on trades in their subject of

social studies; upon further reflection, she realized that these casual talks were actually done for

students to have a connection or learning of their local history.” (personal communication, April

25, 2023) When a topic in Araling Panlipunan would line up with the galleon accident

occurrence, L. Aquino reveals her way of integrating the topic with her pupils is “By either

reading or having a casual conversation with the learners about the matter.” (personal

communication, April 18, 2023) She highlighted every one of the details she understood, which

were also transmitted to her through tales. She then corroborated these tales with what she

experienced as a little child, where she reiterated, "nagbubuso daw, kinukuha yung mga

kayamanan." (They say that they are diving for the treasures [of the wrecked galleon]), she

added, "nag aaral tayo ng history ng iba, dapat mas maalam tayo sa (sariling) atin" (We are

learning about the history of other people, we should be better knowledgeable about our own.)

(L. Aquino, personal communication, April 18, 2023) where she highlights the relevance of

bringing up the subject of the buried galleon shipwreck into class discussions when it is

acceptable to do so. M. Azurin offered some ideas for “including the event not only in the topic

of Araling Panlipunan, but also in other subjects as well, as she said “(Oo, pwede nila maturo ito

sa learners, pwede sila mag contextualize, kunwari, yung topic sa yamang tubig, pwede sila
 70

mag integrate hindi lang sa araling panlipunan pati din sa ibang subjects)” (Yes, they can

incorporate this topic in teaching the students. They can contextualize, for example, the lesson

about water resources, they can incorporate not just in Araling Panlipunan but with other

subjects also.) (personal communication, April 18, 2023) where she provided crystal-clear

examples to help in understanding how integration of the event might also occur outside of the

subject primarily concerned with history. J. Losañez explains that “she only brings up the issue

in conversation with her students when it is relevant to the topic they are talking about.”

(personal communication, April 25, 2023) The Key Informants mentioned in the preceding

paragraphs may have demonstrated how the sunken galleon has been incorporated into

discussion in Araling Panlipunan or other subjects; however, some of them have little to no

knowledge of the occurrence. In the following paragraph, residents' experiences with local

history education as young people will also be discussed.

First, an elderly and local resident of Buhatan, describes her experience in school, where

“she did not learn about their place being a part of the galleon wreck history, because back

then, the government or anyone else did not have their eyes set on the treasures that lay on the

sea bed of Buhatan Beach, implying that teachers were unaware that such valuable information

existed.” (C. Balbin, personal communication, April 18, 2023) J. Ballares a former fisherman and

local resident, supported Lola Chalina’s claim by stating, "Kan ako nag skwela pa, ig saraduhan

iyan na lugar na linubugan kan galyon, dae pwede ang mga dayo dyan." (When I was at school,

the area surrounding the wreck of the galleon was actually constricted, and anyone who were

not associated were not allowed to enter.) (personal communication, April 18, 2023) Mr. Jesus

was in fact younger than Lola Chalina, and he came into contact with it much later when the

government and divers found the treasures buried under the sea within Buhatan, Santo

Domingo. Lastly, M. Cardano, a barangay kagawad, said that “the occurrence of the galleon

wreck was brought up during her younger years in school, but the teacher didn't really pay much
 71

attention to information about it. “ (personal communication, April 18, 2023)

Promotion. Since it gained widespread attention, education on the galleon's place in

local history has not been given the attention it deserves. It was the responsibility of the

teaching staff as well as the administration of the school to educate students about the galleon

crash that took place in the area around their school as part of the local history course. Not only

does promotion apply to the travel and tourist business, but it also applies to the most basic

methods of telling individuals about a certain event, or in this instance, informing the young

people about their own place. In Buhatan, there is only one school nearby, Buhatan Elementary

School (BES), which is led by Principal Rico Balucio. Under his supervision, the researchers

interviewed six (6) cooperative and kind teachers who shared insights on how they promote the

said event, as well as their ideas on how to expand the promotion of the galleon wreck site to

their classes.Inside the school's grounds, the researchers were greeted by the teaching faculty

and the principal, who emphasized the importance they place on the event of the galleon's

sinking by displaying and describing the work done by both students and teachers in relation to

the event. M. Azurin the granddaughter of the first man to find out about the riches in the wreck

of the said site, and F. Serrano shares their insights during discussions with their pupils. They

are fed with knowledge of the important event that took place in the hometown of her learners

saying other teachers should include the history of the galleon wreck in teaching Araling

Panlipunan because this is part of the local history and this also promotes Buhatan. With this,

the students here in Buhatan ES must be aware of the galleon wreck. She also gave her

thoughts on how the event should be marketed by addressing a local celebration, the "kwaw"

festival, or "owl's eyes fish," a red fish with large eyes that is prevalent in the sea of Buhatan,

Sto. Domingo. Her recommendation is to add or include it into the aforementioned celebration

(personal communication, April 18, 2023). On the other hand, one teacher enthusiastically

informed the researchers about the school paper named "The Galleon," which was written
 72

expressly to commemorate the area's galleon tragedy. She also considered doing further study

on the incident in order to create activities such as literary and artistic works for her pupils to

complete. Finally, L. Aquino said that “during the annual celebration or commemoration of the

discovery of the galleon wreck, they may provide contests such as slogan making, essay

making, and similar ideas.” (personal communication, April 18, 2023) To better explain the

actions done, below is Plate 3, a picture of the mural painting done by one of the learners of

Buhatan Elementary School to signify that they did not forget the history of their place.

Plate 3. Mural of Spanish Galleon in the sea with “kwaw” fishes.

The plate above and the codes that were derived from the key informants brought

about a connection between each of them nearing to the same answer, which is educating the

local residents about a significant event that took place in their neighborhood and to give them a

reason to appreciate the long and illustrious history of their town. The learners of Barangay

Buhatan exhibit their appreciation for the occasion by knowing tales about it and executing

activities within their capabilities, such as the mural depicted above. This is a direct outcome of
 73

the great teachers who made it possible for them to continuously recognize the momentous

event. Education on local history contributed to the accomplishment of this goal and helped

bring it to life by seeing how learners respond and express their perspectives on their own

culture, history, and ways of life. In other words, it allowed their manifestations to come to life.

The perspective of the Encyclopedia of Latin American History and Culture (2022) on how

strongly the Manila Galleon trade influenced the view of Spanish colonial culture is reflected in

the students of Buhatan Elementary School, as history is still present and is not forgotten; in

fact, it is given more importance by the younger generation by creating what they can to

commemorate the event as a part of their local history.

The current status of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay along

with site development, local government initiatives, tourism development, and the local tourism

industry is needing more attention. Its historical significance lacks promotion from the different

sectors. After discerning it, the researchers delved into the level of awareness of its community

members. Considering the discussion above about the status of the said site concerning the

different sectors in Sto. Domingo, Albay, it is important to identify the level of awareness of the

local populace in order to know more about the factors hindering development of the galleon

wreck in Buhatan.

LEVEL OF AWARENESS ON THE GALLEON WRECK

In determining the level of awareness, the researchers categorized the key informants’

awareness into three, these categories are: Knowledge on the History of the Galleon,

Understanding of the Site’s Historical Significance, and Plans on Improving and Promoting the

Site. In each category, themes were identified as presented by the different codes. The
 74

researchers were also guided by the indicators in the overall level of awareness of each group

of key informants which is presented in Chapter 3.

In this study, the researchers aimed to know the level of awareness among the different

sectors in Sto. Domingo Albay. The researchers conducted an interview with four (4) elderly,

four (4) barangay officials, one (1) fisherman eight (8) local government officials from the

legislative branch, one (1) from the executive, and four (4) barangay officials of Brgy. Buhatan,

Sto. Domingo, Albay, six (6) Araling Panlipunan Teachers in Buhatan Elementary School and

four (4) Araling Panlipunan Teachers in Sto. Domingo National High School, the municipal

tourism officer of Sto. Domingo, Albay and two (2) divers from the same municipality. The

gathered response from the said key informants have clearly placed their awareness to the

following indicators; Knowledge on the History of the Galleon Wreck, Understanding of the

Site’s Historical Significance and Plans or Suggestions on Improving and Promoting the Site.

BUHATAN RESIDENTS

In general, the local residents who have been chosen as key informants are aware of

the wreck of the galleon that took place in their locality. They were incredibly aware about the

incident that took place and had a good grip of the historical importance it had for the people

and community of Buhatan, Sto. Domingo. For instance, the barangay council cannot recall

seeing any records outlining the historical importance of the galleon wrecks to their community

from those who came before them. This is further supported by the assertion of a former

barangay captain who said that throughout her term in office, no initiatives or plans were

established for promoting the property owing to constraints imposed by the government. As a

direct result of this, they did not take any effort to remedy the situation, nor did they give any

suggestions. However, after they had finished the interview with the researchers, they were able
 75

to get a glimpse of ideas that they may take and put into action in order to preserve the value of

the place. Accordingly, the researchers arrived at the conclusion that the present-day barangay

council is aware of the extensive history associated with the galleon ruin site and is prepared to

take steps to preserve it.

Because the responses given by each of the key informants matched the specifications

that were provided on the table above beside knowledge on the history of the galleon wreck, the

researchers determined that it was evidence of awareness. The people who live in Buhatan are

aware that such an incident took place, but they first heard about it through the tales told by

their ancestors and the people who came before them. On the other hand, The local residents’

understanding of the site’s historical significance was fitted to the indicator aware because most

of them having already forgotten or did not give any importance already since, according to one

of the informants, it already happened long time ago and will not be significant to today’s state

of their barangay. Other key informants, despite knowing it happened many years ago, still

recognized its importance to their local history. On the other hand, the local residents'

understanding of the historical significance of the site correspond to the indicator because the

majority of them had already forgotten or did not give it any importance because, according to

one of the informants, it occurred a long time ago and will not be relevant to the current

condition of their barangay. Other key informants, despite being aware that the event occurred

many years ago, acknowledged its significance to the local history. Last but not least, the status

of the key informants regarding the plans or suggestions for enhancing and promoting the site is

aware, as they shared with the researchers very promising plans and suggestions for enhancing

and promoting the historical site of the galleon wreckage in the vicinity.

Knowledge on the History of the Galleon Wreck. The residents of Buhatan who were

chosen to be interviewed were mostly older and served as leaders in their own barangay, thus

they were aware of the event that took place in their community. Nearly all of the key sources of
 76

information were aware of the galleon tragedy that took place in their hometown. Two (2) local

individuals were aware of the galleon wreck incident and provided specific data. J. Bañadera

who was the first to be inquired about by the researchers, shared his knowledge of the galleon

disaster event that occurred in their area. He stated that, “although he was aware of the

aforementioned occurrence, he lacked in-depth understanding of it. When researchers

questioned how he learned about the galleon crash, he said he learned about it through his

parents and older relatives since his family had lived in Buhatan for a long time and were also

aware of the tragedy, allowing their children to become informed as well. Another aspect that

prompted him to learn more about the galleon crash was when he read a report about it at the

Barangay Hall where he normally visits, but regretfully, the file could not be retrieved when he

looked for it. (personal communication, April 18, 2023)

Lastly, M. Balea, the Barangay Captain of Buhatan, shares her remarks on how she

learned about the galleon crash, adding, "Dae pa ngani ako istorya na an (na galyon)" (I hadn't

even been born yet, but there's already a narrative (on the galleon) where she establishes the

existence of legends about the aforementioned occurrence handed down through generations.

(personal communication, April 18, 2023) "Ang istorya kaiyan, 18 or ano pa ata iyan na

century," she said, "dae ko lang matandaan kung anong taon nagdirigdi ang mga diver na an."

(According to stories, it [diving treasures] happened somewhere during the 18th century I don't

know the exact year those divers came here [in Buhatan]) she entailed that she was young back

then somewhere when she was just in grade 2 or 3 that she remembered seeing divers that her

parents recognized as people with the surname Ramos first then tow other people accompanied

the diver namely Lopez and Sevilla as what she remembered. After a few years, she saw that

numerous foreigners came to their neighborhood to dive in the area where the wreck was

discovered, and she subsequently saw salvaged antique dishes and jars. Some of the

inhabitants did not allow others to profit from all of the resources that their area had; according
 77

to Mrs. Melba, some of the residents obtained a few nails that resemble gold, which the people

turned into earrings for the reason "...gari gold baga ta haluyon mag kupas." (Like gold, it fades

with age) She also related how she first saw the remnant anchor in Fort Santiago in Manila

before it was relocated to the National Museum in the Mall of Asia. There were no pictures of

the said relics since she or her locale didn’t have the budget to buy cameras during those times.

Understanding of the Site’s Historical Significance. At first, when key informants are

asked where the location of the wreck site is, they would correspond with almost the same

answers or location. Barangay Kagawad Heaven, told the researchers the name of the specific

place where the wreck occurred saying the place was called “higop- higop” because as what he

knew from hearsays, everything around that place is being absorbed below or like being

dragged deep into the sea, Lola lourdes has a different name for it as she reiterated “May parte

dyan sa punta paduman sa alimsog mahiling nindo su dakulang gapo… dyan ito, dyan

naglubog su galyon.” (There's a part there in punta going to alimsog where you will see a huge

rock, that's where the galleon wrecked.) Fisherman Jesus and Lola Angelina, called, have the

same narratives saying that the place where the galleon crashed is called “Nabasagan ''

because of the said incident that occurred centuries ago. Lastly, Barangay Secretary Justino did

not give the exact name of the place where the wreckage occurred but rather the location

saying that it happened somewhere in the northern part of the place. Despite the differences on

the details provided by each key informant, upon the researchers evaluation on the actual site

with the guides of local residents in the area near the Buhatan beach at that time, all of the

information tackled by the key informants have been describing only one place; the location

where the galleon wreck occurred.

Barangay Secretary Justino proudly stated “it serves as an identity of the place because

that is where the galleon sanked”, Fisherman Jesus identified the historical significance of the

sight by saying The galleon wreck has an importance to Buhatan because when the area is still
 78

has its beautiful and natural shoreline, like there are still no road development and such, tourists

has visited Buhatan and became popular because of the galleon wreck. While Lola Angelina

and Barangay Kagawad Myrna acknowledge the importance of the site. On the other hand,

some of the key informants somehow know where the galleon has wrecked in their place but

none of them gave recognition of its historical significance for the site, the researchers have

concluded this from the following transcriptions, Barangay Kagawad Heaven shared his

thoughts saying “Para po sako, dae naman iyan ki importansya na lugar ta haloy na nangyari.”

(For me, it [the site] does not have any importance already since it occured a long time ago.)

Followed by Lola Chalina’s response saying “Dae ko daw aram kung ano an importansya kan

lugar na iyan.” (I dont know the importance of that site.) Lola Lourdes have the same thought

saying “Dae ko na aram kun may importansya pa iyang nilubugan.” (I don't know if the wreck

site is still important.) and Lastly, Barangay Captain Melba’s statement where she said in

disbelief that it was already forgotten by the government since no actions were initiated by the

government, even projects.

The members of a community give the impression that they have no concern about the

town's identity if they do not acknowledge the significance of the historical landmark in the area.

People have a responsibility to inform subsequent generations who will live in their location

about the events that took place there and contributed to the formation of its identity. The same

holds true for not having any meaningful knowledge to share with those who are interested in

the history of the location. In connection with the status of the Spanish galleon wreck

Plans or Suggestions on Improving and Promoting the Site. The Barangay Officials of

Buhatan have been interviewed regarding the development of the site, since the retrieval of the

remnants of the galleon wreck, the government has taken control over the site. The barangay

council was not given permission to let anyone cross the area or even do casual divings since it

was under their jurisdiction already. During those times, Buhatan has been visited by a lot of
 79

tourists with the intent of seeing where the galleon wreck site was and to enjoy the wondrous

beach of Buhatan. Years have passed and the number of tourists has already decreased since

the restriction of the government. When the researchers came to the place, they had not seen

any markings or any projects done to show people coming in the town that the galleon wreck

occurred there.

After the interview and analysis of the transcriptions, the researchers have concluded that

in the past, the barangay council that led the said barangay gave no plans to promote the site

because of the boundaries given by the government ever since the site was taken under the

jurisdiction of the government this has been accounted for by former barangay captain Lola

Lourders. Now, for the current barangay officials of Buhatan, during their current tenure, they

did not have any accomplished plans or ideas to promote the site since their focus is on other

aspects of the barangay. The root of it according to the current barangay captain is that no

actions were done by the previous council so they have nothing to continuously support the site

preservation of its historical significance. But after the interview with the researchers, barangay

captain Melba considered having plans to improve and promote the site in the future because of

the study done by the researchers.

Barangay Captain Melba during her term did not have any plans on promoting the site

due to some restrictions by the government in terms of permit and no budget was allocated for

it. She stated that “Sa ngayon wara ta warang budget ang barangay dapat ang tourism

kaiyan… warang interesado gibuhan ki project pero okay samo kung may magkainteres kamo

(mga researchers)... pwede man kakagan ki signage sa boulevard bati Importante para sako

iyan, ang sarong arug kaiyan dapat igpahalagahan, kundi wara kami maginibo ta dae man

igpansin kang mga dati samo” (As of now we don’t have budget for that, the tourism [office]

should be accounted for that… no one has interest in making projects but it's okay for us if you
 80

would… we can place signage in the boulevard though it’s important for me, something like that

[galleon wreck] must be given importance but we can’t do anything, it wasn’t given attention by

those before us). Kagawad Heaven, on the other hand, suggested that since his ancestors have

not given importance to the galleon wreck, there should be an information board or bulletin that

includes photos and information about the galleon so people can know what took place in

Buhatan. Barangay Secretary Justino with conviction reiterated that “Dapat igtawan an ki

atensyon kan gobyerno sa paagi ki pag implement ki mga programa na makakatabang para

madevelop saka mapromote an tourism industry kan Barangay Buhatan'' (local governments

should give attention to the site by implementing programs that would help to develop and

promote this through promoting the tourism industry of Barangay Buhatan he suggested to

make the site a tourist spot or develop infrastructures such as tourists spot or site for the tourists

to visit in their locale.

Through means of the key informants' awareness of the plans and suggestions to

promote and develop the galleon wreck site, as well as their promises to take action in

accordance with those plans and recommendations. The barangay authorities of Buhatan now

have ideas on what strategies may be executed, which would allow them to help their own

barangay in identifying the measures necessary to finally break the pattern of their forefathers

overlooking the accident site. Residents and tourists considering coming to the area might be

made aware of the fact that a key event in the history of trade in the Philippines took place on

the beach of Buhatan and that the area was engaged in the event by providing them with the

information from the plans implemented by the council.

From the conclusion derived from the gathered data by the researchers, three themes were

identified; Folklore, Lack of Recognition, and Learning from the Past that shall synthesize the
 81

answers into clusters of information with the same indication of ideas or thoughts. The identified

themes arranged in the table below shall be further elaborated in the preceding paragraphs.

Codes Themes

Tales from the Old Folklore

Lack of Historical Data

Recognition Lack of Recognition

Known but little to none importance

Ignorance Learning from the Past

Chance and Plans

Table 1. Identified Themes from the responses of Local Residents

Folklore. People, particularly those who have lived in a place for a long time, like having

a variety of folklore. Typically, these folklores began when just a few people lived in a single

location. Britannica (2017) defined folklore as a subject matter that covers all historically derived

and orally or imitatively transmitted literature, and this includes the prevailing result of the

interview transcriptions. Folklore has long existed in numerous parts of the globe, and it has

been one of the foundations in maintaining the historical significance of a location alive for

centuries. The researchers clearly identified that the folklore about the galleon that crashed on

Buhatan's beach was kept alive for many years but paid little attention to the important details;

stories passed down to the young ones were simply to raise awareness that something

historical occurred in their barangay. Because of only having old folks to tell the stories without

proper way of recording it, the younger generations can or may have different interpretations.
 82

This is why historical data is needed to make sure that history is never forgotten and will forever

be kept the way things and events happened.

An article by Kyne (2010) described the difficulty of having folklore in Local History since

it consisted of stories that are passed down verbally making it vague. She reiterated that some

stories may be highly imaginative, finding very little historical substance in it. Just as the

researchers concluded in the results. But still folklore plays a significant role in shaping local

history and culture. It encompasses the traditional beliefs, customs, stories, and legends that

are passed down through generations within a specific community or region. While folklore is

often considered separate from recorded history, it can provide valuable insights into the social,

cultural, and historical experiences of a particular group of people.

Lack of Recognition. Recognition of certain events that occurred in a place will only be

important when many people are aware of it. The galleon wreck in Buhatan lacks this factor

because of the slow action given by the government and they even restricted the barangay to

intervene with the wreck site. The barangay councils even way back did not give recognition

because of the said matter. They instead focused on other tourism activities to improve their

tourism industry and be recognized as a barangay where they can freely do whatever they want

to help their local usher. Along with time, the wreck site wasn’t given importance and recognition

because a lot of time has passed already. Stahle (2016) wrote an article for FamilySearch Blog

in which he stated that "All history is local," acknowledging one's local history as a significant

component of their identity. Residents ought to weave the history of their neighborhood into how

they live every day to guarantee that cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.

Learning from the Past. Indeed, the past is the best teacher of all. During the interview,

the key informants seem to have realized actions that should have been taken a long time ago
 83

already. The informants learned that ignorance has been given to the importance of the galleon

wreck site. The council has been ignoring what was laying bluntly below their locale’s sea

waiting to be recognized. Because of this they learned to develop plans and have chances to

develop the site and make it part of their tourist site that will add additional features to Buhatan.

The article posted by Parrish (2015) claims the same thought from the researcher, he specified

that history has been rewritten because novel information has come to light, such as an

archeological find or previously concealed papers. It's thrilling when this happens per se. As a

result, people are enthusiastic that new knowledge will increase their comprehension or will give

way to new knowledge regarding events they don’t have any idea about. In the study’s context,

people were glad to gain knowledge and be able to at least supplement the naiveness that

previous generation settlers of Barangay Buhatan missed. Finally creating a contribution to the

rich local history that their place holds.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT OFFICIALS

Most of the local government officials are; in terms of their knowledge on the history of

the galleon wreck, are somewhat aware of the existing literature and historical records on how

and when the galleon wreck was discovered, but they are unsure about it whereas there are no

supporting documents. Most of them also, in terms of understanding the site’s historical

significance, possess a succinct knowledge and a clear understanding about the significance of

the history of the galleon wreck. And in terms of plans or suggestions on improving and

promoting the site, majority of them have shared a beneficial and concrete plan or suggestion

on improving and promoting the site. The local government officials are aware of the existence

of the galleon wreck but the knowledge is very limited. They do not have sufficient basis for the

information because of the absence of documents regarding its history.

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Knowledge on the History of the Galleon. Given the fact that literature and studies on the

history of the galleon wreck are limited, most of the LGU officials admittedly shared their lack of

knowledge regarding the said history. Unsurprisingly, some of them first heard the history from

the researchers. One official was actually shocked upon knowing it saying, “Talaga, may

ganyan?” [Really, is there such a thing?] Another one laughingly stated, “Dai man pati akong

aram diyan sa galleon wreck.” [I don’t actually have any knowledge about the galleon wreck] But

fortunately, three of the officials - from the executive branch, and three from the legislative

branch, have heard or read some details about the galleon wreck particularly on how it was

recovered and where the remnants were placed. Councilor Bukó shared that he knew that some

of the remnants of the galleon were still lying beneath the sea. Some historians in the museum

researched or performed retrieval operations and the divers found the anchor. He said that

during the 1980s, the retrieval operations of the galleon remnants were performed. He knows

three people who were involved in the retrieval operation and one of them was the late Vivencio

Maristela, the father of the incumbent barangay captain in San Rafael. He further said that the

anchor of the galleon was actually displayed in the locality of Sto. Domingo for public viewing

before it was brought to the National Museum. The Vice Mayor, on the other hand, stated that

he learned the story from his older brother who was the former mayor of the municipality.

According to him, he saw an item (a knife, in particular) in his brother's office. Out of curiosity,

he asked about it. Then the mayor explained the history of the sunken galleon and that it was an

artifact of it which was transformed into their so-called “Rambo Knife'' to recognize its historical

value.

The rest of the officials have knowledge on the galleon wreck but they have just heard it

from the stories of the elderly and were not sure of its veracity. One of them explained, “’Yan

kasi, hearsay sa’min. Sabi-sabi na lang ’yan so wala akong personal knowledge do’n.” [This
 85

matter is only a hearsay to us. That’s just from rumors so I don’t have personal knowledge on

that.] Another one whose late father was one of the divers who helped recover the relics insisted

that the wreck was recovered about 45 years ago. Moreover, all of them conceded that this

history was not given promotional programs by their department. The mayor, however,

reasoned, “As of now, no. Actually, we were not allowed. Dapat [the site should be]

untouched…” He also added, “Kasi you need a permit from the National Historical Institute para

may gawin ka diyan, kahit saan. For example, itong church namin, pinapa-include namin sa

historical sites. Unfortunately, wala pang [response] ’yung sa NHI kasi for you to do something,

to add or even to develop it, you need permission.” [Actually, in order for us to impose the said

site development, we first need a permit from the National Historical Institute. For example, we

actually want our church in the locality to be included in the historical sites. Unfortunately, we

received no response from the NHI because of the fact that, for you to do something, to add to

it, or even to develop it, you need permission.]

Understanding of Historical Significance. Corresponding to the knowledge of history is

the understanding of its significance. This category was assessed based on the department’s

developments/ actions that will help promote and improve the site because of its historical

significance. Some of them, however, shared their opinions about the importance in the history

of the site. The barangay secretary asserted, “it serves as an identity on our place because this

is where the galleon has sunk.” Also, kagawad M believes that it is a pride that the wreck was

found in Buhatan and when people visit the place, it’s their honor. In a like manner, the vice

mayor said, “Very significant because it serves as a proof that the trade and barter system of

the Philippines with Spain was very active even long ago.” Contrastingly, one councilor

conveyed when asked if the site has an importance, “Actually, dai naman kasi aloy na iyan na

ano eh.” [actually, none because it happened a long time ago.]

 86

With regards to the developments imposed, they have confirmed that no actions were

recorded that helped in the promotion of the site. One of them who is also not totally aware of

the sunken galleon expressed his interest on the site and assured the researchers that he will

learn more about it. He also added that a plan to promote the site is a good idea. “Given na hali

saindo su ideya, siguro ma-research kita kung saing part iyan sa Buhatan.” [Given that the idea

is from you (the researchers), maybe we could do research about its location in Buhatan ] He

said. “Pag-adalan ta, ilingon ta kung ano ang pwede tang gibuhon.” [Let’s look into it, let’s see

what we can do.] He added when asked about the possible program that will help promote the

site.

Plans on Improving and Promoting the Site. Analysis and classification of data regarding

the LGU's plans for the development and promotion of the site are crucial after recognizing the

historical value of the galleon wreck site. It is important to improve the site since the occurrence

of the aforementioned historical phenomenon is a symbol of Buhatan's rich history. In the

context of development planning of the site, there are no specific plans that the LGU officials

have created. Most of the local government officials have not shared a specific plan on

developing the site as a tourist attraction. Some of them told the researchers that they would

first gather information about its history before they could share ideas. Councilor Chris

interestingly said, “Currently dai ko masasabi iyan ta hali saindo ngunyan, pero pag-adalan ta.

Ilingon ta kung anong pwede tang gibuhon.” The municipal mayor confirmed that there were still

no developments imposed by the LGU on the site. “Because our idea is holistic, if tourists go to

Sto. Domingo, we can offer dive sites here, particularly the sunken galleon also so they can go

there.” He added. And when the researchers informed him about their plan to propose a

program, he willingly assured his interest in it. From the responses of the key informants, the

researchers have identified three themes that helped in interpreting their level of awareness.

Those themes are presented in the table below.

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Codes Themes

- Learned from hearsays only Limited knowledge

- Absence of documents

- Lack of details

- Unable to acknowledge the historical significance History Demeaned

of the site

- Prioritizing the cultural heritage

- Giving more attention to the festivals

- No promotional programs initiated Lack of initiatives

- No concrete plans

- Ideas not put in action

- Inability to implement a promotional program

Table 2. Identified Themes from the responses of Local Government Unit Officials

Limited Knowledge. The knowledge of the local government officials on the galleon

wreck was limited because of the absence of records accessible for them. They only obtained

their knowledge from the stories of the elderly which they considered as merely hearsays. Since

these stories do not have a basis, their knowledge is not detailed. Some of them may be able to

witness the recovery of the galleon wreck and showed wider knowledge on its history but still it

was insufficient as the details on how it was discovered and the exact date of its discovery were

not identified. These difficulties in the access to history that the local officials have experienced

was already explored by (Haddon, et al., n.d.) through the Arts and Humanities Research

Council’s (AHRC’s) Care for the Future. In their series of round table discussions, they have

examined the academia’s involvement with the policy process. The paper underscored the

challenge faced by the policymakers who participated in their discussions in accessing and
 88

understanding of history. Despite the fact that history was valued by the policymakers, using

history was not so easy in practice. The challenge relies on how to access history and how to

use it given the incentives and pressures officials are under.

History Demeaned. This local history was overlooked by the municipality because of the

festivals like Sarung Banggi Festival of Sto. Domingo and the Kwaw Festival of Buhatan. The

too much attention given to these festivals hindered the officials from giving importance to one

of the parts of the municipality’s local history. No documents were presented by the municipality

that will continuously remind the residents of its historical significance. Further, some of the

officials do not have any idea about the galleon wreck and one councilor even claimed that the

site does not have any importance because the history was already antiquated. These

statements capture the reasons for the lack of initiatives taken by the local government unit in

order to prioritize the significance of the site to Sto. Domingo’s local history. From the

standpoints given, the historical significance linked to this galleon was diminished and

obliterated. And as (Schuftan, 2022) has noted, the two ways to demean history is to either

falsify or diminish and obliterate it. The alarming consequences of this oblivion of history

includes political struggles. The reason for this is the ‘powerful forces’ that seek to disregard the

existence of history – how the present was influenced by the past, and replace it with something

that denies it.

Lack of initiatives. The local government unit of Sto. Domingo does not have existing

programs that promote the historical significance of the site. Based on their accounts, one

possible reason is the scarcity of budget of the municipality and the inability of the barangay to

create a promotional program. This was confirmed by a municipal councilor and the barangay

captain of Buhatan. However, the limited knowledge they have shown regarding the galleon
 89

wreck as well as the limited documents about it, can also be considered as another factor.

Consequently, they also possess bright ideas as to how to improve and promote the site. Their

suggestions include: conservation of the site, an ordinance that will include this history in the

local history education, a parola, converting it as a dive site, and including it to the brochure of

Sto. Domingo, and an information board that could be placed on the site to inform people about

the contribution of it to the local history of Sto. Domingo. The indecisions of the officials in

initiating a promotional program on the historical site, showed a need for a post-modern

historical consciousness as discussed by (Weinstein, n.d.) in the volume VIII – number I of his

article titled, POLITICS AND HISTORICAL CONSCIOUSNESS. He stressed that the three

forms of historical consciousness namely; traditional consciousness, modern consciousness,

and post-modern consciousness are essential in understanding what is needed to make a

“perfect” post-modern political decision maker.

From the themes obtained, it was interpreted that the local government officials are

aware of the galleon wreck. The galleon wreck site was not prioritized by the local government

unit with regards to the programs that will promote the site because their awareness about it is

low. Because of their limited knowledge and understanding of the historical significance of the

site, the site was not developed based on its contribution to the local history. The developments

on the site are merely focused on the appearance - the physical advancements that will ensure

the safety of the local residents from possible dangers and for the easier process on the part of

the fishermen. There is a need for the local government officials to understand the significance

of the site in the local history. By that means, a concrete program may be developed to promote

the site.
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ARALING PANLIPUNAN TEACHERS

The findings of this study revealed that the Araling Panlipunan teachers had varying

levels of awareness regarding the galleon wreck that was found in Brgy. Buhatan. Some

teachers were aware about the galleon such as how and when it was discovered but weren't

sure about the exact year, they were also unsure about the exact dates or year of when it sank

in Buhatan, what is its name and where did the galleon belong. Some witnessed the retrieval of

the remnants particularly the anchors and chains of the galleon while others were less aware

since they barely know information about it because they only hear it from the stories of the

elders and other local residents. So based on the indicators of the level of awareness, the

Araling Panlipunan Teachers are, Somewhat aware of the existing literature and historical

records on how and when the galleon wreck was discovered, Possesses a succinct knowledge

and a clear understanding about the significance of the history of the galleon wreck and shared

a good but nonspecific plan or suggestion on improving and promoting the site. Therefore the

Araling Panlipunan Teachers of Buhatan Elementary School and Sto. Domingo National High

school can be considered aware about the Spanish Galleon Wreck in Buhatan Sto. Domingo,

Albay.

Knowledge on the History of the Galleon. The data collected from the interviews with

Araling Panlipunan Teachers in Elementary and Secondary schools highlighted their knowledge

of the Spanish Galleon wreck. Some teachers were familiar with the galleon's history,

emphasizing their experiences and encounters about its retrieval including how and when it was

discovered, but they were uncertain of the specific year. They were also uncertain about the

exact dates when the galleon sank in Buhatan, as well as its name. Some of the teachers were

witnesses when the galleon's anchors and chains were retrieved. One teacher stated, L. Aquino

‘Actually, hindi ko lang siya narinig nakita ko din kasi yung remains nung galleon [anchor] nakita
 91

ko ‘yun nung maliit pa ako. Dito ako nakatira, may mga amerikano noon na pumunta dito siguro

mga grade 1 or grade 2 ako, before ng Bagyong Reming may mga pumunta dito mga divers.

May tindahan kami, sa harap ng tindahan namin doon nila inilalagay yung mga anchor and

yung mga kadena sobrang malalaki at mga matakla na. Kaya naniwala ako kasi hindi lang

talaga siya kwento, nakita ko talaga. Yung mga remains daw na iyon dinala na sa museum.’ she

said. [Actually, I haven’t only heard about it but I saw the remains of the galleon, the anchor, I

saw it when I was still a little kid. I am a resident here, there were Americans back then that

came here. Maybe I was in grade 1 or 2 that time before Typhoon Reming there were divers

that came here. We have a small store and in front of that there’s where they placed the

anchors and chains that are very big and rusty. Because of that I believed that it’s true because

it’s not only a story I actually saw the remnants. And those remnants were brought to the

national museum.], (personal communication, April 18, 2023).

In addition to this, another teacher also witnessed the divers that came to retrieve the

remnants and the treasures of the Spanish Galleon. F. Serrano “Nung bata pa ako siguro mga

6 years old ganyan, may pumunta ditong mga Amerikano, nagpa tayo sila ng… tawag nila doon

garison. Parang bahay made of pawid mga nipa, do’n sila nanirahan. Every morning nakikita

namin sila na pumupunta doon sa kinaroroonan ng galleon sa “higop- higop.” sabi nila

“binubuso”, kinukuha daw yung mga kayamanan doon sa pinaglubugan. Infact nakuha do’n

yung angkla [anchor] pero hindi ko nakita yung mga nakukuha nila. Ang nakikita lang namin

mga naka swimsuit sila na attire lalake, babae mga divers siguro.” [When I was a kid some

Americans came here, they build a what they call garison. It’s like a house made of “nipas”, and

that’s where they stayed for a while. Every morning we can see them going to the site of the

galleon we call it “higop- higop” they say the Americans were diving there retrieving the

treasures in where the galleon had sunk. In fact the anchor was retrieved but I haven’t seen
 92

those retrieved things. We can only see boys and girls wearing swimsuit attires. Maybe they are

some kind of divers.] (personal communication, April 18, 2023).

One claimed that her grandfather was the one who discovered the galleon wreck.

According to her M. Azurin ‘Ang sakuyang istorya kaiyan, kasi ang lolo ko sarong para sira,

ngunyan itong lolo ko matibayon talaga siya mag sisid, mag- buso [dive]. Accidentally na buso

niya iyan, kang lolo ko. Kaya lang kang time na ito nag report siya sa mayor na na- buso niya

ito sininyalan niya [signage] para matandaan kung sain na part. Tapos pig ano na ito kang

government [take over]. Pero su tawan man ngaya siya ning honor [acknowledgement] dai na

nangyari iyan. Pero sa totoo lang siya ang inot kaitong naka buso kasi tinandaan niya ngani

tapos nireport niya sa municipality. Crispin Ebrada ang pangalan ng lolo ko. Yung lolo ko

naabot ko pa ito kasi college na ako kang time na may nag diyan samuya na taga GMA na nag-

interview saiya about kaiyan sa galleon. Kaya ito su lolo ko nakaistorya siya sakuya na

aksidente niya daw itong nadiskubre.’ [My story about that, my grandfather was a fisherman,

then my lolo was a very good diver. Accidentally when he was diving he discovered the wreck.

But during that time, he reported it to the mayor so he put signage there for it to be easily found

or remembered. Then the government took over. My grandfather wasn’t given any

acknowledgement. But the truth is he was the one who actually discovered the wreck because

he remembered it then put a signage on it then reported it to the municipality. Crispin Ebrada

was the name of my grandfather. My grandfather was still alive back when I was still in college.

Someone from GMA [reporters] came to us and asked about the galleon. That’s why my lolo

told me about that story that he’s the one who discovered the galleon wreck there.] (personal

communication, April 18, 2023). Those are the stories of the teachers that are interviewed when

asked to share their knowledge about the galleon wreck in their barangay.
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Others were only vaguely aware of it because they had only heard elders and other local

residents of the area's stories about it. Some of them only know that there was a galleon that

sank there on its way from Spain to Acapulco, Mexico, and that it did so because of a strong

typhoon. However, they also have a variety of stories about how the galleon sank in the seas of

Buhatan. Some of them claimed it was due to the “higop-higop” , a part of the sea that appears

to be like a sinkhole because it absorbs everything around it. These are the different versions of

stories told by the teachers who are natives of the area and who live nearby about how the

galleon sank at Buhatan. It can be concluded that some of them are unaware of the galleon's

history since they only knew very little information about the Spanish Galleon wreck.

Furthermore, the lack of evidence and documentation negatively affected the awareness

of the teachers in Secondary levels and the inclusion of the local history of the galleon wreck in

teaching Araling Panlipunan in Sto. Domingo National High School. As some teachers

expressed that they didn’t have any basis or evidence to prove that there was actually a galleon

that sunk there. One said that, B. Buella ‘Nadangog mi iyan from hearsays, but then wala

kaming sufficient evidence to prove na igwa talaga, in fact itong relic ngani wara man kaitong

dinara digdi pati su mga earthenwares sabi ninda may mga nagkakurua duman na mga

earthenwares. Hain ang mga earthenware? Dapat naka display kunta iyan diyan. Puros man

sana sabi na dinara na iyan duman. Wara man kami nakita maluwas lang diyan hearsays kaya

dae man kami makatao ki valid na ano sa history dapat factual.’ [We heard about it from

hearsays but then we don’t have sufficient evidence to prove that there’s a galleon. In fact the

relic [remnant] nothing was brought here even the earthenware. Where are the earthenwares? It

should’ve been displayed there. They all say that it was brought there [in the national museum].

we didn’t see anything so therefore it can only be seen as hearsay so we can’t give any valid

[stories] when it comes in history it should be factual.] (personal communication, April 25, 2023).

Therefore, due to lack of evidence they aren’t including the galleon wreck in their teaching of
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local history in Araling Panlipunan because they needed some evidence or basis for them to

show to the students. This suggests that evidence such as documentations or written records or

stories could greatly enhance the level of awareness of the residents and could be used as a

supplementary learning material for the students in Sto. Domingo National High school and

Buhatan Elementary School.

Understanding of the Historical Significance and Suggestions to Promote the Site. The

elementary teachers had an idea to combine their plans on including the history of the galleon

shipwreck in teaching local history to students and in this way they may also promote the

historical significance of the site. Their plan includes integrating the galleon wreck into the

curriculum. As one teacher suggests, to integrate their local history across curriculum wherein

the students may do any activity in relation to the galleon such as making artworks, literary

pieces, field study or investigation. Another teacher suggested incorporating the galleon into

their activities like the Kwaw Festival and tell it to the students through teaching Araling

Panlipunan. In this way the Historical Significance of the site may be promoted as well as

included in their curriculum. The teachers are also willing to encourage other Araling Panlipunan

teachers to teach about the story of the galleon wreck in Buhatan because according to them it

is a part of their local history.

On the other hand, one teacher from secondary level said that they don’t have any

evidence or basis therefore, she can not suggest any plans to promote the historical

significance of the said site. But they are willing to include the galleon wreck in teaching local

history, however they need evidence such as photographs for example, so that they can show it

to the students and not just by merely telling them a story with no basis. However, one of the

teachers said that she doesn’t have any plans to include the galleon in teaching Araling

Panlipunan just passing down the story of the galleon to the students she stated.
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From the responses of the key informants, the researchers have identified two themes

that helped in interpreting their level of awareness. These themes are presented in the table

below.

Codes Themes

- Witnessed the retrieval of the remnants Uncertainty or Limited Information

- Knowledge about the Galleon Wreck was
from hearsay only
- Lack of evidence for the residents to see

- Initiatives on promoting the historical Promotion of historical significance

through education
significance
- Curriculum integration
- Combining cultural heritage together with
local history
- Lack of evidence to promote the site
- Sharing stories
- Curriculum integration

Table 3. Identified Themes from the responses of Araling Panlipunan Teachers

Uncertainty or Limited Information. In terms of their knowledge on the History of the

Galleon Wreck the teachers’ knowledge can be considered limited because based on the

interpretation of data the responses suggest lack of concrete or conclusive information. All

available information was incomplete, unverified and was not supported by sufficient evidence.

Although some witnessed the retrieval of the remnants, as well as the divers, their information

about the galleon wasn’t sufficient. They didn’t know the other relevant information such as the

name of the galleon and when did the galleon sink in Buhatan. While other teachers only

learned the story from hearsays of the elders and other local residents. In addition, some of

them don't really believe it since they haven’t witnessed any evidence or artifacts from the
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galleon. History is an incomplete puzzle, which limits how it may be used. It might also be

compared with a huge jigsaw puzzle that is missing a lot of pieces. The jig-saw, nevertheless,

can take shape through acquisition of more history, but this dictates more than just interpreting

past events; it calls for the declassification of more documents. Additionally, there is an

incompleteness because there is frequently inadequate evidence to base assumptions on.

Torres (2014) Residents have been intrigued by the stories passed down through generations

about the Spanish Galleon wreck that lies somewhere off their shores. This relates to Torres’

findings where he states that ‘history is an incomplete puzzle’ since like a jigsaw puzzle missing

many pieces, the information available to the residents about the galleon was limited, leaving

them with fragments of the larger picture.

Promotion of historical significance through education. When it comes to Understanding

of the Historical Significance, and suggestions to promote the site, the teachers had an idea to

combine their plans on including the history of the galleon shipwreck in teaching local history to

students and in this way they may also promote the historical significance of the site. In terms of

promoting the historical significance of the Spanish Galleon wreck, the responses from the

teachers highlight two main initiatives. The first one emphasizes the importance of curriculum

integration by incorporating the subject matter related to the galleon wreck into educational

programs. This approach aims to integrate the historical content not only in Araling Panlipunan

but also across multiple subjects. The goal is to ensure that students receive a comprehensive

understanding of the galleon wreck's significance through various areas of study. According to

UCLA (2023) A comprehensive understanding of the role and significance of history in the

general education of all children is necessary for setting historical standards in the classroom.

One of the more positive trends of the decade has been the widespread and expanding support

for more and better history instruction in schools, starting in the early elementary grades.

Without history, a society lacks a shared recollection of its past, its essential principles, or the
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actions of the past that led to the current situation. We cannot conduct any rational investigation

into the political, social, or moral problems in society without history. Promoting the historical

significance of the Spanish Galleon wreck through education may result in enhancing historical

understanding, enriching local history, preserving cultural heritage, facilitating scientific

research, and inspiring life- long passion for learning.

The second initiative revolves around combining cultural heritage with local history. The

teachers recognize the need to preserve the cultural heritage of their locality and establish

connections with the historical background, including the galleon wreck in their Kwaw festival in

Buhatan. This approach highlights the significance of the galleon wreck within the context of

local history and cultural heritage. However, the lack of evidence poses a challenge for the

teachers in promoting the historical significance of the galleon wreck. Some teachers admit that

they are unable to suggest specific plans to promote the site due to the absence of supporting

evidence. For instance, one teacher mentions the need for photographs or concrete proof to

present to the students, rather than relying solely on storytelling without any basis. Despite the

challenges due to lack of evidence to show to the students, the teachers of Buhatan Elementary

School are already including the story of the Spanish Galleon Wreck in their local history

education even before and that the students are also aware about the Spanish Galleon Wreck.

Although the students are aware of the galleon that sank in the waters of Buhatan, their

knowledge is limited to basic information about the galleon.

The elementary teachers are eager to further incorporate the galleon into the curriculum,

emphasizing that it is an integral part of their local history and believing that children should be

aware of it. Similarly, a teacher from Sto. Domingo National High School suggests

contextualizing the galleon wreck in teaching Araling Panlipunan and other subjects to provide

students with a deeper understanding of their local history. This approach aims to create a

comprehensive learning experience by connecting the galleon wreck to different areas of study.
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In summary, the teachers' responses highlight the importance of curriculum integration and the

combination of cultural heritage with local history to promote the historical significance of the

Spanish Galleon wreck. The lack of evidence presents a challenge, but efforts are being made

to incorporate the galleon into educational programs. The teachers' dedication to passing down

the story and ensuring that students are aware of their local history reflects their commitment to

preserving and promoting the historical significance of the galleon wreck.

From the identified themes, it was interpreted that the key informants’ attitudes or interests

towards the galleon were influenced by their level of awareness. When it comes to their

knowledge of the galleon wreck’s history, the teachers have a basic understanding of where the

ship originated from, where it was supposed to travel, and why it sank in Buhatan. Even two of

the teachers were present when it was retrieved. One teacher even asserted that her

grandfather had discovered the wreck. But because the majority of the teachers only learnt

about the galleon's story and its demise through hearsay, they lack the information about its

history.

Some of the Araling Panlipunan teachers, especially the residents of Buhatan have an

in-depth understanding of the galleon wreck's historical significance, especially considering that

they have suggested different ways of promoting it. In terms of including it to their teachings in

Araling Panlipunan they shared good ideas on how they may include it in their curriculum as

well as what activities they might conduct to help the students develop a better understanding

about their local history. Those who are more aware about the galleon, such as its historical

significance tends to have a more positive attitude towards it as they have interesting ideas on

how the site of the galleon wreck can be promoted. While those who had lower levels of

awareness and understanding of the significance of the galleon wreck site expressed more

skepticism. These findings suggest that improving the level of awareness and knowledge of the

historical significance of the Spanish Galleon Wreck may help increase their interest in
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promoting the site as well as learning about the importance of the history of their locality.

The following are the implications that can be derived from the data interpretation: First

is the lack of reliable information. The fact that the teachers only have hearsay knowledge

suggests that there is a dearth of accurate and verified information about the galleon wreck.

Hearsay information can be unreliable and prone to inaccuracies or exaggerations. Second,

Limited firsthand knowledge. The individuals who witnessed the retrieval of the remnants

possess minimal knowledge about the galleon. This implies that their observations may not

provide comprehensive details or a complete understanding of the wreck. Third is absence of

concrete evidence, this indicates that there is a lack of tangible evidence or proofs confirming

the existence of the galleon wreck in Buhatan. Without solid evidence, it becomes challenging to

establish the authenticity or veracity of the claims surrounding the wreck. Another one is

uncertainty and speculation, due to the lack of sufficient information and concrete evidence,

there may be a degree of uncertainty and speculation regarding the Spanish galleon wreck. The

absence of substantial proof leaves room for doubts and questions about its existence or the

accuracy of the accounts surrounding it. Overall, this implies that those individuals with a deeper

understanding of the historical significance can see different forms of promotion to showcase

the galleon wreck. On the other hand, the lack of knowledge about the historical value of the site

leads to doubts regarding its authenticity or importance. This highlights the need to educate and

raise awareness and efforts to address doubts and foster a broader appreciation of the galleon

wreck.

LOCAL TOURISM INDUSTRY

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In this study, the researchers aimed to know the level of awareness among the

members of the tourism industry in Sto. Domingo, Albay. A municipal tourism officer from Sto.

Domingo, Albay and two (2) divers from the same province were interviewed by the researchers

and examined the information gleaned from the interview. With this, the researchers have

identified that the key players in the tourism industry differ in terms of their level of awareness

on the galleon wreck in Buhatan. The tourism officer has very limited knowledge regarding the

galleon wreck as she mentioned little information about it. Consequently, the divers gave

significant information about the said matter. Hence, the key informants within this sector is

considered aware on the galleon wreck in Buhatan as what the researchers identified using the

three indicators which are; (1) knowledge on the history of the galleon wreck (2) understanding

the historical significance of the site, and (3) Plans or Suggestions on Improving and Promoting

the Site.

In elaborating the categories indicated on the preceding paragraph, the awareness of the

tourism sector on the category; knowledge on the history of the galleon wreck in Buhatan is

considered aware. The tourism officer has very limited information regarding the galleon wreck

as she only mentioned when it was discovered, and how its remains were already at the

National Museum. The divers on the other hand gave significant information about the said

matter, including the ship name, the first diver who leapt on the seas of Buhatan to find the

remains of the galleon, and the valuable artifacts that were found on it. Corresponding to this,

both the key players in this sector were considered aware in terms of understanding the

historical significance of the site as they have mentioned that the galleon wreck in Buhatan has

played a vital role in the rich history of global trade. While these indicators are present, the plans

or suggestions on improving and promoting the site is also important apropos to identifying the

overall awareness of the key players of the tourism industry. In connection with this, the key

informants have suggested diving activities to promote the historical significance of the site.
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Through analyzing these data, shared knowledge, understanding, and plans to promote the site

combined is still insufficient in order to categorize this sector as very aware, as per the

aforementioned indicators suggested.

Knowledge on the Galleon Wreck. The key players in the tourism industry have shared

their knowledge on the galleon wreck in Buhatan based on what they have read (tourism officer)

and from what they have gained from their colleagues (divers). According to their shared

knowledge on the following transcriptions, they are somewhat aware of the existing literature

and historical records on how and when the galleon wreck was discovered. The municipal

tourism officer stated what she knows about the galleon shipwreck in Buhatan. A. Himor

(personal communication, April 18, 2023) shared that it was discovered 180 years ago and it is

now in the National Museum (referring to the remnants). She also added information about the

galleon with the provided reading material that she has. Although Ms. Himor’s knowledge was

actually very limited since the information that she shared was solely from the reading material

she provided. In the same matter, C. Paz (personal communication, May 22, 2023) shared

knowledge on the galleon such as its ship name, the first diver that tried to find the remains of

the galleon, and the valuable artifacts that were found there. The divers were also able to

capture the astilleros or the place where a galleon/ship ports, saying that Buhatan was also an

astillero back then. With this, the divers were able to share their knowledge on the history of the

galleon wreck in Buhatan based on the information shared to them by their co-divers.

Understanding the Historical Significance of the Site. This category goes hand in hand

with historical knowledge. This was evaluated based on the recommendations for potential

initiatives to increase public awareness—particularly from the municipal tourism officer and the

divers. The tourism officer is considered unaware under this indicator as she possesses little

idea about the significance of the history of the galleon wreck and did not mention any additional

thoughts about the said matter. On the other note, the divers are considered aware under this
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indicator as they recognize and share some importance of the existence of the galleon. The

codes produced from transcriptions that were interpreted by researchers based on the

responses of the key players in the tourism industry regarding the historical significance of the

site are shown in the table below.When asked about the galleon wreck’s inclusion in tourism

sites online, “Meron siya sa google,” A. Himor (personal communication, April 18, 2023) shortly

responded. Although these websites are present, it does not encourage tourists to visit the

galleon wreck in Buhatan, but the site still has its historical significance since it was the location

where the galleon sank, according to what she has stated. Consequently, the divers negatively

responded when asked about websites encouraging tourists to visit Buhatan. “Dae, digdi pawno

satuya tigbabawal mag-dive dyan sa arog kaan na mga site, na daeng permit ” (No. Diving in

sites like Buhatan is prohibited unless you have a permit), C. Paz (personal communication,

May 22, 2023) stated. The researchers have concluded then that these websites should not

encourage tourists to visit Buhatan yet because of the fact that there may be tourism

malpractices such as illegal diving or any other prohibited activities performed under the seas of

Buhatan, especially because it is not yet a tourist site.

Plans on Improving and Promoting the Site. If we were going to talk about the historical

significance of the site, the divers has mentioned two significance of the galleon wreck in

Buhatan and that is, Buhatan being one of the galleon ports back then and seeing the province

of Albay as a part of the rich history of global trade. In the case of private sectors who helped to

develop the site, the tourism officer plainly has no idea. On the other hand, materials such as

brochures and fliers about the galleon wreck were not evident in the office of the tourism sector

in Sto. Domingo, Albay. The same case with the divers, they specified that all of these materials

are already at the National Museum. In terms of a specialization training about historically-

inclined areas as part of the tourism industry, the tourism officer and the divers have not

undergone any training regarding the said matter. Although the divers said that they underwent
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some kind of a training when the last underwater excavation approved by the national

government hired divers for this matter. But this is particularly about dredging or properly

handling artifacts found underwater.

In connection with the knowledge and understanding of the key informants about the

historical significance of the galleon wreck in Buhatan, they have shared their ideas regarding

the plans that they have in mind in order to promote and develop the site. Hence, all of the key

informants from the tourism sector suggested diving activities to promote the site. Hence, they

are considered aware under this indicator as they shared a good but nonspecific plan or

suggestion on improving and promoting the site.

From the responses of the key informants, the researchers have identified three themes that

helped in interpreting their level of awareness. Those themes are presented in the table below.

Codes Themes

- Second Hand experience Limited Information

- Provided reading material

- Lack of promotion in websites Lack of Initiatives

- Lack of resources
- Absence of documents and evidences

- Suggested plans/program for the Promoting the Galleon Wreck

promotion of the site
- Publicizing the galleon wreck

Table 4. Identified Themes from the responses of Tourism Industry

Limited Knowledge. Both the municipal tourism officer and the divers’ knowledge on the

galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay can be regarded as limited. Firstly, most of the
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information given by the tourism officer about the site was all from reading material that was

read during the interview. She just mentioned when it was discovered and the fact that its

remains were already in the possession of the National Museum. No detailed information was

given about specific facts on the galleon wreck. Although the divers shared their firsthand and

general knowledge as divers about galleons, they gave significant information about the

valuable artifacts that had been found on the galleon wreck in Buhatan. They also mentioned

the name of the galleon that has been found in the said site and that is San Javier. It is also

important that they included the first diver who leaped on the seas of Buhatan to find the galleon

wreck. Though they still have limited information about the galleon wreck because of the fact

that most of the information provided was generally about galleons and not about the galleon

wreck in Buhatan.

Lack of Initiatives. In promoting the historical significance of the galleon wreck in

Buhatan, there should be plans or initiatives inaugurated. Although the tourism sector of Sto.

Domingo has online websites about their locality, the promotion of the galleon wreck in Buhatan

was not evident and definitely not encouraging tourists to visit the site because of the fact that

the remains of the galleon was no longer at the site, according to them. In addition, the tourism

officer has no idea about private sectors presenting to help develop the site, with this, we can

conclude that there was no initiative taken at all. Factors that may boost local history promotion

such as providing special training for the tourism industry members with historically inclined

areas were, unfortunately, not utilized. All these deficiencies were visible because of insufficient

factual documents and evidence about the galleon wreck.

Promoting the Galleon Wreck Site. In accordance with promoting the galleon wreck in

Buhatan, both the tourism officer and the divers suggested one thing, and that is having diving

activities around the area. The tourism officer pointed out that since it has a historical

significance, showing people the area where the galleon sank by utilizing diving activities is
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already a good idea to promote the site. It has also been mentioned that the matter about the

galleon wreck has been publicized by them through sharing information about this with tourists,

although shared information is also limited such as the area where it sank and how its remains

are not on the locality anymore.

The themes that were obtained based from the responses of the key informants in the

tourism industry was interpreted in terms of their; knowledge on the history of the galleon wreck,

they are somewhat aware of the existence of the galleon wreck in Buhatan, as well as the cause

of its wreckage, when and how it was discovered, and the name of the galleon itself. The diver

even mentioned the valuable artifacts that were found on the galleon wreck site. In terms of

understanding the historical significance of the site, they have adequate knowledge on the site’s

significance. The tourism officer stated that the galleon wreck in Buhatan clearly has historical

significance since the galleon had sunk at the said area. The divers were also communal when

it came to this matter, they specified that Buhatan was proven as a galleon port and this made

the province of Albay as part of the rich history of the trading world back then. As for the plans

or suggestions on improving and promoting the site, both the tourism officer and the divers have

shared their ideas for the plan on promoting the site.

Consequently, there are no initiatives taken when it comes to promoting the site which

apparently bring implications especially for the locality. Firstly, given the fact that developing a

particular site can be a source of revenue for a particular community, Buhatan would be at loss

because of this opportunity as historic sites bring resources and perspectives that can directly

advance the struggles of scientific and political organizations engaged in climate and

environmental justice (Paynter, B. (2021). In addition, historical places or sites that are

neglected can make them more susceptible to the effects of uncontrolled urban development

and unsustainable tourism practices.

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From the analyzed current status of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo, Albay and the level of awareness of the different sectors of the community, the

researchers have identified the actions that the site is in need of. Considering the historical

significance of the site, a program was developed in order to preserve, conserve, and promote

it. This program will be proposed to and should be utilized by the local government unit of Sto.

Domingo, Albay.

PROGRAM DEVELOPED TO PROMOTE THE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SITE

The municipality of Sto. Domingo, province of Albay, is known as the “Home of Sarung

Banggi” as it is the birthplace of the famous music, Sarung Banggi, the first ever Filipino music

played at the United Nations. Because of this, the primary focus of the tourism was given to the

annual celebration of the Sarung Banggi Festival which showcases the cultural heritage of the

Domingueños. However, the town has more to offer. Buhatan, one of its barangays, is the site

where a Spanish galleon wreck was discovered. The relic of this sunken galleon was found five

fathoms deep under the sea of Buhatan Beach. The said barangay has documented that the

wreck was discovered on May 24, 1967. Its two barnacled corral encrusted anchors were

recovered on June 6, 1976 and were displayed in front of the municipal hall. The anchors were

brought to Manila by train and deposited at Fort Santiago for exhibit. The wreck serves as a

reminder of the rich Manila-Acapulco trade during the Spanish era. Thus, to preserve the

historical value of this site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay it has to be improved and promoted.

Buhatan is known for its “kwaw” festival that celebrates their harvest for their so-called

kwaw kind of fish. So although this barangay is located in a far-flung area, it's one of the

barangays in the town that really stands out. This is the reason why the value of this local

history was already overlooked by the community administrators particularly the tourism

department. Nevertheless, the elderly who were the witnesses of the recovery of the relics were
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still aware of it although some details were already vanishing in their memory. This is the

antecedent for the need of a program that will help the barangay and the entire town be known

for their valuable contribution to the history of trade routes that sailed during the Spanish era.

Oral histories in this locality could be the root of the flock of tourists in the place - even

the Buhatan residents themselves testified in this. On the one hand, this could be a sufficient

reason for people to continuously appreciate the site. On the other hand, there is no certainty

that this history can stand the test of time if its records are not opened for public consumption.

As a matter of fact, this history is gradually detracting from the minds of the people, both in its

locality and those from the other locales, especially the younger members of the community.

This is now becoming a mere hearsay due to lack of accessible written records on this and

absence of any program that will remind people about it. The literature and studies may be

limited, but the existing documents about this can be already considered as proof in creating a

program that will surely advocate the value of the local history. To ensure that local histories as

to this one is conserved and will be shared to the next generations, a program in promoting it

has to be implemented.

The program developed that will help preserve and promote the historical significance of

the said site is the ‘SHIP to Sto. Domingo’ program. This program aims to give importance to

the shipwreck in Buhatan through site development, history dissemination, indigenous

wreckchandise, and place promotion. This program will be implemented in partnership with the

Local Government Unit and the Local Tourism Industry. This will be the key for Sto. Domingo to

exhibit one of its substantial histories. Through this, the town's tourism will be boosted and the

economy will be accumulated. Furthermore, the skills and talents of its people will be discerned

while helping them earn profit on their works. When we spearhead this program, we promote

not just the history, but also the place, its people, and their abilities.

The program will be called, SHIP to Sto. Domingo Program, which stands for Site

Development, History Dissemination, Indigenous WreckChandise, and Place Promotion. This

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will be facilitated by the municipal tourism department through the supervision of the Local

Government Unit. In this program, the history of the galleon wreck will be promoted through

improving the site in Buhatan and establishing a replica of the galleon together with an

information board regarding the galleon wreck. Their history of this galleon wreck will be also

included in the local history education and will be disseminated through various competitions.

The artistry and craftsmanship of the local artists in the town will be advocated through the

merchandise about the galleon that will be created by them and will be sold by the LGU. And

ultimately, a compilation of literary works promoting the above-mentioned history written by the

proponents of this program will be published as a minibook in partnership with the LGU and the

Municipal Tourism. Part of the sales of the minibook will be used for the expenses of the other

subprograms, especially the Galleon WreckLica. The sources of budget for the activities will

came from the; first, merchandises of the local artists and the raffle draw which will both help

create the galleon wrecklica and the information board; second, the publishing and selling of the

book which will help in the maintenance of the other subprograms. If the budget is still not

sufficient, the cooperating units shall shoulder the other expenses.

The general objective of this program is to take pride in and promote the historical

significance of the Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay. The specific

objectives include: to augment the economy of the municipality and to promote tourism and

cultural heritage preservation in Sto. Domingo, Albay, through the development of the Buhatan

Galleon Wreck Site as a key tourist attraction; to provide high school students with an

immersive and educational experience by integrating the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site into the

Araling Panlipunan curriculum, fostering a deeper understanding of local history and culture; to

exhibit and enhance the skills and talents of Domingueños in Arts and craftsmanship; and to

support the livelihood of the Domingueños.

The first program component is the site development. In this component, there will be an

establishment of a replica of the galleon which will be called, ”Galleon WreckLica” and an
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information board regarding the galleon wreck. This will enhance the physical appearance of the

site. The Galleon WreckLica will be established in coordination with the partner units and with

the permission of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. The activities will

include the conduct of a thorough assessment of the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site to identify

areas for improvement and development. Then, develop a master plan for the site that includes

infrastructure development, landscaping, and site amenities such as restrooms and viewing

decks. After which, coordinate with local government units, NGOs, and private stakeholders to

secure funding and resources for site development.

The subprograms in site development are; Cultural Heritage Conservation and

Interpretation and Tourism Marketing and Promotion. In terms of the Cultural Heritage

Conservation and Interpretation, a research and documentation of the historical and cultural

significance of the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site will be conducted. Also, interpretive materials

such as signage, brochures, and audio guides to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of

the site's history and significance will be developed. Then the local tour guides will be trained to

provide informative and engaging tours of the site. In terms of Tourism Marketing and

Promotion, a comprehensive marketing and promotion strategy to increase awareness of the

Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site as a tourist destination will be developed. And to reach a wider

audience, various marketing channels such as social media, travel websites, and tourism fairs

will be utilized. And ultimately, the local tourism industry should collaborate with local travel

agencies and tour operators to include the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site in their tour packages.

The second program component is the History Dissemination. This component

comprises the inclusion of the history of the galleon wreck to the history education of all the

secondary schools in the locality. An executive order shall be made that will mandate all the

secondary schools in the municipality to include in their curriculum the local history of the

galleon wreck. In the implementation of this component, three stages shall be continuously

done.
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The three stages in history dissemination are; first is the pre-visit activities which will

include the classroom discussions on the Spanish colonization of the Philippines and its impact

on the local culture and traditions, research activities on the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site, its

history, and the artifacts found in the site, and preparation of a research paper or a multimedia

presentation about the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site. second is the on-site activities which will

include the guided tour to the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site, led by a knowledgeable tour guide,

hands-on activities such as artifact identification and documentation, underwater archaeology

simulations, and traditional handicraft demonstrations and cultural immersion activities such as

trying out local cuisine, learning traditional dances, and participating in community celebrations.

The post-visit activities consist of the group discussion on the experience and insights gained

from the visit, writing assignments such as reflection papers or essays on the importance of

preserving cultural heritage sites like the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site, and creation of a group

project such as a short film, a documentary, or a photo essay about the Buhatan Galleon Wreck

Site. in the evaluation, assessment of learning outcomes based on class participation, research

output, on-site participation, and post-visit assignments, feedback and suggestions for

improvement of the educational program, and a song writing contest about the galleon wreck's

history among the secondary school students in the municipality. The contest will be titled, “The

Ship is Singing.” There will be one representative per school and the video entries will be posted

in the official facebook page of the LGU for the purpose of disseminating the local history. Each

representative will be required to sell tickets for the raffle draw that will be conducted during the

awarding of the winners of the said contest. The proceeds are for the prizes to the winners of

the contest and for the construction of the Galleon WreckLica.

The third program component is the Indigenous WreckChandise. Using indigenous

materials, local artists will craft merchandise related to the galleon which will be called, “Galleon

WreckChandise.” The artists will be paid for their labor and the WreckChandises will be sold by

the partner units and the sales will help accumulate the economy of the municipality. These
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wreckchandises will also benefit the tourism as it will be considered as souvenirs that will be

made available for the tourists when they visit the site. The local artists will be oriented on their

roles and the benefits they will acquire upon participating in this subprogram. The benefits

include being recognized as one of the contributors of the artistic merchandise of the galleon.

They will also have to sign a contract to maintain their active cooperation throughout the

implementation of the program.

The fourth program component is the Place Promotion. The tourists will visit the place

specifically the Sto. Domingo, making the sources of income of the Domingueños patronized.

The proponents of this program will create a compilation of literary works promoting the local

history of the galleon wreck. With the help of the partner units, this compilation will be published

as a minibook. This book shall be promoted online through a facebook page of this program.

Promotions may include trivias regarding the site and excerpts of the literary works. AP

Teachers in the locality shall be required to avail as they are going to use it in educating their

students about the above-cited local history. 60% of the sales of the book will be provided to the

partner units which will be used in the conduct and maintenance of the other subprograms. This

mini book encourages tourists to visit the place. Possible title of the book will be, “The Ship is

seen keen.” The book will be published with the help of the cooperating units. It will be sold both

online and in the municipal tourism office. It will be promoted online together with the promotion

of the place. This book shall channel tourists to visit the site.

The expected outcomes in this SHIP to Sto. Domingo Program are: first, the historical

significance of the Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay will be promoted

and is something that every Domingueño will be proud of. In site development, it is expected

that; the tourism and economy of the municipality of Sto. Domingo, Albay will be augmented,

there will be an increased tourist arrivals in Sto. Domingo, Albay, resulting in economic growth

and job creation, enhanced preservation and conservation of the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site

and other cultural heritage sites in the area, increased awareness and appreciation of the
 112

historical and cultural significance of the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site among local and foreign

tourists, and increased community participation and empowerment in the development and

promotion of sustainable tourism practices in Sto. Domingo, Albay.

In history dissemination, it is expected that the Buhatan Galleon Wreck Site in Sto.

Domingo, Albay, Philippines will be known as a valuable cultural heritage site that offers a

unique learning experience for high school students. Through this educational program,

students will be able to: explore and appreciate the rich history and cultural heritage of the site,

gain insights on the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage sites for future

generations, demonstrate an enhanced understanding of Philippine history, particularly the

galleon trade era and its impact on the country, increased appreciation for cultural heritage and

preservation efforts in Sto. Domingo, Albay, improved critical thinking, research, and

presentation skills among students and strengthened connection between classroom learning

and real-world experiences through the integration of a local historical site. In the indigenous

wreckChandise, the skills and talents of Domingueños in Arts and craftsmanship will be

exhibited and enhanced while in the place promotion, the tourists will visit the place specifically

the Sto. Domingo, making the sources of income of the Domingueños patronized.

Chapter V

SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

 113

This chapter presents the summary of findings and conclusions derived in the conduct of

the study which is to explore and promote the Spanish galleon wreck site in Buhatan, Sto.

Domingo, Albay. It also provides recommendations that can be pursued by different sectors in

the said municipality in order to promote the site.

This study was conducted at Sto. Domingo, Albay. The respondents were the

community members of the said municipality such as the local residents of barangay Buhatan,

local government officials, Araling Panlipunan teachers, and members of the tourism industry.

They were selected using purposive sampling and employed a descriptive method of research

as pertinent data were obtained through observation sheet and interview guides.

Summary

This study developed a program that will promote the historical significance of the galleon wreck

site in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay. Specifically, it sought to answer the following problems:

1. The status of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay along:

a. Site Development

b. Local Government Initiatives

c. Tourism Development

d. Local History Education

2. The level of awareness on the galleon wreck among:

a. Local Residents

b. Local Government Officials

c. Araling Panlipunan teachers

d. Tourism Industry
 114

3. What program may be developed to promote the historical significance of the site?

The study made use of descriptive research in determining the; current status of the

galleon wreck site its site development, local government initiatives, tourism development, and

local history education; and the level of awareness among the local residents, local government

officials, Araling Panlipunan teachers, and the tourism industry. The key informants of the study

were the Buhatan residents which include the professionals, elderly and fisherfolk, local

government officials which includes the barangay captain and secretary of Buhatan, the

municipal mayor, vice mayor and councilors, Araling Panlipunan teachers of Buhatan

Elementary School and Sto. Domingo National High School, and the tourism industry which

comprise the municipal tourism officer and Albay divers. The data on the current status of the

site and the level of awareness of the community members were the basis in formulating the

details included in the program developed that will promote the historical significance of the

site.

Findings

Based on the analysis of the data gathered in this study, the following findings were derived.

1. The current status of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan Sto Domingo Albay along:

a. Site Development. The development status of the galleon wreck in Buhatan can be

deemed as stagnant given that there are no apparent signs that would detail the history of the

aforementioned galleon. Due to the fact that it has not undergone any development, this local
 115

history of Buhatan, Sto. Domingo, Albay has been neglected and there hasn't been enough

focus on it.

b. Local Government Initiatives. The local government officials of Sto. Domingo, Albay

has not taken any initiatives to develop the galleon wreck in Buhatan. According to the Mayor,

even though they wanted to develop it, they needed to ask for permission from the National

Historical Institute in order to make a development on a historical site therefore, the site should

remain untouched. Currently, they did not mention concrete plans to improve and promote the

said site but as most of the officials have stated, they have plans with regards to its

development.

c. Tourism Development. In terms of the tourism sectors, they lack information about the

Spanish Galleon Wreck in Buhatan Sto. Domingo, Albay, there is a gap in their knowledge

regarding the history of the Galleon and other important information about it. Another thing is

that, there’s a noticeable absence of tourism development initiatives aimed to promote the

historical significance of the site. However, there are online websites that include the Galleon

wreck in Buhatan as one of the tourism destinations in Albay that encourages tourists to visit the

site. But the absence of tangible promotional materials limits the reach and accessibility of

information for tourists who are visiting the Sto. Domingo, Albay particularly to visit the site.

d. Local History Education. In relation to the local history education, the key informants

have explained that the history about the galleon wreck in Buhatan is shared among students,

though it was just like passing stories. Integrating the local history of the site in teaching Araling

Panlipunan is rather a choice for the teachers, they have plans on doing so but they are not that

sure especially for the reason that there is no factual basis regarding the occurrence or

existence of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan.

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2. The level of awareness on the galleon wreck among:

a. Local Residents. The people are aware of the fact that a galleon disaster happened on

their land, but they do not have the historical knowledge that is required to describe the

specifics of the catastrophe that occurred. During all of the commotion, the locals were

prevented from intruding on the scene because foreign divers and members of the

government were on their way to the location to retrieve the remains. As a consequence

of this, they lacked appropriate knowledge due to the fact that it was never mentioned in

any capacity throughout its notorious time. The students' elders were the only ones who

shared stories of a ship that had been lost and crashed on their coastlines, but the

students themselves learned nothing about the galleon accident that had taken place in

their area while they were in school.

b. Local Government Unit. After being interviewed, authorities from the local government

disclosed that they knew very little to nothing about the wreckage of a Spanish galleon

that is located in the seas of Buhatan. All they could say was that a ship sunk

somewhere in their area, but they could not provide a particular location. They focused

their attention entirely on the town of Santo Domingo and the Sarung Bangui Festival,

which is the reason the city is so well-known in the first place.

c. Araling Panlipunan Teachers. The Araling Panlipunan teachers had varying levels of

awareness about the Galleon wreck. Two of the teachers are witnesses on the retrieval

of the remnants such as the anchors and chains and the divers who retrieved it. One

teacher claimed that her grandfather was the one who discovered the galleon wreck

when he was diving. Elementary teachers who are residing in Buhatan express

willingness to encourage other Araling Panlipunan teachers to integrate the local history

of the galleon wreck into their teaching not just in Araling Panlipunan but as well as with

different subjects since the galleon was part of their local history. While teachers in Sto.
 117

Domingo National High school (SDNHS) demonstrates skepticism towards the galleon

wreck due to the lack of basis or evidence to support their teaching and provide proof for

the students. Teachers who possess an understanding of the historical significance of

the galleon wreck display a more positive attitude towards promoting it. Additionally, they

suggested plans on how to promote the historical significance by incorporating it into

educational activities. On the other hand, teachers who have heard about the galleon

from hearsays don't care much about its historical significance as they did not suggest

any specific plans on promoting it.

d. Tourism Industry. In the field of tourism, the tourism officer, upon learning about the

aforementioned event, which was meant to fall under their responsibility, did not have

any historical data from their office. However, the management did not have

comprehensive information of what occurred, and the only proof they had to substantiate

what they already knew about the sunken Spanish galleon off the coast of Buhatan was

adequate evidence from other resources also. The divers, on the other hand, supplied a

comprehensive technique for identifying the sunken galleons and notified the

researchers that their other divers recognized the sunken galleon near Buhatan as the

"San Javier." This information was given to the researchers by the divers.

3. The program that has been developed aims primarily to address the absence of site

development and promotion of the place’s historical significance. It should also help the

livelihood and economy of the locality of Sto. Domingo, Albay. The program is titled, “SHIP to

Sto. Domingo” which stands for site development, history inclusion, indigenous wreckchandise,

and place promotion.

Conclusions

Based on the findings, the following conclusions were made.

 118

1. Site Development. It is given that there are no developments implemented where the

galleon wreckage has occurred. With this, the researchers have come to the conclusion

that this has happened because of the fact that even the local residents of Buhatan, they

are not much aware about the Spanish galleon wreck. Because of the lack of

awareness, it leads people not to hold relevance within the local history of their

community and makes it a big hindrance for the site’s development.

Local government initiatives. Based on the findings, it appeared that the lack of initiatives

of the local government unit in promoting the historical significance of the site was driven

by the limited knowledge and understanding of the local history of the sunken galleon.

Tourism Development. The findings suggest that there’s a significant gap in knowledge,

limited tourism development, and the absence of promotional materials dedicated to the

Spanish Galleon Wreck site in Buhatan. The reach and accessibility of information for

tourists visiting the Sto. Domingo, Albay are constrained by the lack of tangible

promotional items especially to visit the location. Addressing these gaps is crucial to

enhance understanding, promotion and sustainable development of this historical site as

a tourism destination in Albay.

Local History Education. Since the galleon was a significant part of their local history,

elementary school teachers who live in Buhatan have expressed a willingness to

encourage other teachers in Araling Panlipunan to incorporate the galleon wreck into

their lessons across all subject areas. While the teachers in SDNHS are not entirely

sure whether they will incorporate the local history of the site into their lessons on

Araling Panlipunan because there is no evidence to support the occurrence or existence

of the Spanish galleon wreck in Buhatan.

 119

2. Level of awareness galleon wreck among:

Local Residents. The people who lived in Buhatan didn't have a detailed history of their

community. They were not given enough information and evidence to support the

occurrence of the Spanish galleon tragedy that was stated in the study's several

explanations. The older folks never failed to pass on legends to the new generation,

despite the fact that there was no empirical evidence or literature to maintain the

historical importance of the sinking Spanish galleon.

Local Government Unit. In terms of their knowledge of the history of the galleon wreck,

the majority of local government officials are somewhat familiar with the extant literature

and historical records on how and when the galleon wreck was discovered, but they are

uncertain as there are no supporting documents. Regarding the historical significance of

the site, the majority of them have concise knowledge and a clear comprehension of the

significance of the galleon wreck's history. And in terms of plans or suggestions for

enhancing and promoting the site, the majority of them have provided constructive and

concrete plans or suggestions. Local government officials are aware of the galleon

wreck's existence, but their knowledge is limited. Due to the lack of documents

pertaining to its history, they lack a sufficient foundation for the information.

Araling Panlipunan Teachers. The findings indicate that elementary teachers in Buhatan

possess awareness and to some, experiences related to the Spanish Galleon Wreck.

Elementary teachers show a willingness to incorporate the history of the Galleon wreck

in their teaching and propose different promotion strategies. However skepticism exists

among teachers in secondary level, emphasizing the need for further research and

educational resources. This also highlights the link between understanding, attitude and
 120

promotion emphasizing the importance of fostering knowledge and awareness among

teachers to effectively promote the historical significance of the galleon wreck.

Tourism Industry. They had some awareness of the Spanish galleon catastrophe in the

tourist sector and some understanding of it as well. However, the tourism officer did not

have comprehensive knowledge of the events that took place, and the only proof that

they had to confirm what they already knew about the sunken Spanish galleon off the

coast of Buhatan came from a different source. Nevertheless, the events that took place

were a total mystery to the tourism officer. Divers, on the other hand, felt confident in the

information that they had on the sunken galleon since this was their area of

specialization. They presented a comprehensive method for detecting sunken galleons

and notified the researchers of the identification of the galleon.

3. The absence of a promotional program of the local government unit in the historical

significance of the site was driven by the limited knowledge and understanding of the

local history of the sunken galleon. Thus, the local government unit of Sto. Domingo,

Albay should implement a program that will enliven the local history of the galleon wreck

and promote its historical significance.

Recommendations

Considering the findings and conclusions, the following recommendations were forwarded.

1. Site Development. Develop signage or information boards to provide visitors with

detailed information about the galleon wreck and its historical significance. This can

enhance the visitors’ experience and promote their understanding of the local history.

Next, involve the local community in the development and preservation efforts, engage
 121

residents, schools and local government organizations to create awareness about the

historical significance of the site and encourage as well their active participation on this.

Seek funding opportunities from government bodies, NGOs, private organizations

interested in historical preservation and cultural heritage. Explore potential partnerships

with universities or research institutions that can provide expertise and resources for the

development of the site. Creation of visitor facilities such as a park, pathways and

visiting centers.

Local Government Initiatives. A study that will delve deeper on the history of the galleon

wreck - its discovery and recovery should be conducted to respond in the absence of its

written records.

Tourism Development. Develop a strategic plan to attract tourists and promote the

galleon wreck site as a cultural and historical attraction. In order to promote the galleon

wreck, the tourism office of Sto. Domingo Albay should invest in comprehensive

research to understand the historical significance of the Spanish Galleon wreck in their

locality. This may include gathering information about the ship’s history, its connection to

the region, and any noteworthy artifacts associated with it. Forge partnerships with

historians and marine archaeologists to further explore and document the Spanish

Galleon Wreck. Because their expertise can provide valuable insights and create

engaging narratives about the galleon’s history. Next is Developing informative content,

this can include brochures, fliers, pamphlets, video and website articles that highlights

the Galleon Wreck in Buhatan and any related facts and stories about it. Another one is,

involve the local community in promoting the significance of the Spanish Galleon wreck.

Collaborate with community organizations, such as schools, and cultural groups to raise

awareness about the site’s historical value. Here, the local residents are highly
 122

encouraged to share their stories and knowledge regarding the Galleon wreck. Lastly, to

support tourism development efforts, the tourism office should actively seek funding

opportunities from government, private sponsorships, or public- private partnerships.

Collaborating with national museums, historical institutes or maritime organizations can

also provide access to expertise, resources, and additional promotional channels.

Local History Education. Organize educational programs and events. Plan educational

programs or events that encourages project- based learning where students will engage

with the topic about the Spanish Galleon Wreck. This could include educational tours,

creating artworks, literary piece and workshops featuring the Galleon and the artifacts

recovered from it and they may present their works on school exhibits. Another one is

through curriculum integration where the teachers may introduce the historical

significance of the galleon wreck and its connection to the local area. Discuss the role of

the galleons in the Manila- Acapulco Trade route and how they influenced the local

economy, culture and interactions between Spain and the Philippines. In this way also,

the teachers may provide historical context. Students with background information about

the time period when the galleon trade was active. Explain the geopolitical situation, the

Spanish Colonization of the Philippines and the broader historical context of trade and

exploration during that era.

2. Local Residents. Create brochures, pamphlets, or informative placards outlining the

history of galleon disasters in their region. Include information about the disasters, their

significance, and any fascinating anecdotes connected to them. Make these materials

accessible and visually enticing in public areas, community centers, libraries, and visitor

information centers. To provide locals with a deeper comprehension of galleon ruins,

organize educational events such as lectures, seminars, and guided excursions. Invite
 123

local historians, archaeologists, and maritime specialists to share their expertise.

Consider forming partnerships with local institutions, historical societies, and cultural

organizations in order to expand the scope and impact of these events.

Local Government Unit officials. Organize guided excursions or site visits for local

government officials at the galleon disaster site. Provide them with the opportunity to

directly experience the historical significance and tourism potential of these sites.

Arrange for knowledgeable aides or experts to accompany the officials, providing them

with in-depth information and answering their queries. This immersive experience can

strengthen the officials' understanding of the wreckage' significance and leave a lasting

impression.

Araling Panlipunan Teachers. Organize workshops or training sessions on the historical

significance of galleon wreck for Araling Panlipunan teachers. Invite historians,

archaeologists, and maritime specialists to deliver lectures and facilitate interactive

sessions. Provide teachers with the necessary context, resources, and instructional

strategies to effectively integrate the topic into their lessons. Encourage instructors to

collaborate and share best practices during these sessions. Creating comprehensive

educational materials designed particularly for Araling Panlipunan teachers. Create

lesson plans, worksheets, and visual aides that emphasize the historical context,

significance, and cultural significance of galleon ruins. Ensure that these materials are

aligned with the Araling Panlipunan curriculum and include activities that promote

student participation and critical thinking.

Tourism Industry. Develop relationships with local tour operators and travel agencies in

order to incorporate galleon wreck excursions into their itineraries. Provide them with
 124

information, images, and narratives that emphasize the historical significance of the

ruins. Offer training sessions or seminars to tour guides in order to enlighten them on the

historical context and fascinating facts associated with the ruins. Collaboration with tour

operators will increase the visibility and reach of galleon ruin experiences. They can also

celebrate the historical significance of galleon ruin by organizing cultural festivals and

events. Include elements such as reenactments, traditional music and dance

performances, historical exhibitions, and demonstrations of arts and crafts. Highlight the

opportunity for visitors to engage with the local culture and history surrounding the

galleon wreckage when promoting these events to the tourism industry.

3. The local government unit of the municipality of Sto. Domingo, Albay should partner up

with the researchers and utilize the program developed in this study that will promote the

historical significance of the galleon wreck site and will augment the local economy.

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