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Come visit Corregidor, a small rocky
island in the Philippines about 48 kilometers west of Manila
which is strategically located at the entrance of Manila
Bay. When the Philippines was yet under the colony of Spain,
it served as a fortress; an early warning outpost to warn
Manila of any hostile ships; a customs outpost; and a
correctional prison. Because of the corrective effect of
hard labour on prisoners, the island was named Corregidor,
from the Spanish word "corregir" meaning to correct.
Corregidor is also known as "the rock" because of its rocky
landscape and heavy fortifications. This island fortress
stands as a memorial for the courage, valour, and heroism of
its Filipino and American defenders who bravely held their
ground against the overwhelming number of invading Japanese
forces during World War II. Corregidor Island, one of the
most important and celebrated places of battle in the
Pacific Theatre during World War 2 - now that guns are
finally silent, the island serves as a distinct destination
for people of all ages and walks of life in order to
understand, learn and appreciate the courage and bravery of
Filipinos amidst the indescribable horrors of war. You must
be a history buff with a huge interest in the events of
World War 2 in the Pacific to appreciate this place. For
sons and daughters of the war veterans, it is an emotional
and learning experience. For the young, it serves as a
painful reminder of what a war can bring to humankind.
Corregidor is a historical site and a tourist destination.
Corregidor today is not only a place to contemplate and
learn history, it is also a place to relax and enjoy. There
are many things to see and do. A highlight of a visit to
Corregidor is the audio-visual presentation at the Malinta
Tunnel of the events that occurred during World War II,
including the departure of President Quezon and Gen. Douglas
MacArthur on a submarine from Corregidor to Australia. One
can also avail of the island tour of Corregidor on a
motorized boat or do some hiking on through the hills and
forest and discover some landmark ruins along the way. For
those who will stay overnight at Corregidor, take the night
tour with a walk around of the Malinta Tunnel, it is
different and more stimulating. Visitors who come to
Corregidor are rewarded with the opportunity to learn on
site about the historical and patriotic significance of this
island. It allows one not only a chance to learn from the
lessons of the past but also to relive the heroism and
sacrifices of the American and Filipino soldiers who
defended the island against invading Japanese forces during
the Second World War... |
