LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – The city government of Laoag unveiled the historic marker of Gabu Sur watchtower in a ceremony held on June 17 at Sitio Torre, Barangay 35-Gabu Sur in Laoag City as part of the month-long celebration of the 59th charter anniversary of the city.
The watchtower was built during the Spanish colonial period and was used as an outpost for watchmen tasked to warn residents of pirate attacks.
Assistant Secretary Ana Carmela Remigio, the presidential assistant for northern Luzon, emphasized the watchtower’s historical and cultural significance, noting its role in protecting the local communities and symbolizing the resilience of the Laoag City residents.
“It attests to Laoag’s defense stature during the Spanish era. It conveys a strong message about our unwavering resilience, surviving man-made threats like piracy and natural calamities such as strong typhoons. Its enduring presence proudly stands strong,” said Remigio.
In 2020, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) recognized the watchtower ruins as a national cultural treasure, underscoring the need for its restoration and conservation.
“The watchtower truly deserves to be a national cultural treasure so that its role remains in Filipinos’ consciousness, appreciation, and minds. Today, we acknowledge another national cultural treasure in this rich heritage province of Ilocos Norte,” said Jeremy Barnes, NMP director-general.
He highlighted that the watchtower stands as a testament to the city’s historical and cultural wealth.
Also, he emphasized the commitment to preserving and honoring the city’s past and preserving its stories for future generations.
Meanwhile, Laoag City Mayor Michael Keon reflected on the watchtower’s history, emphasizing its symbolic value.
“It was not only an outpost to warn the residents, now it stands tall as a symbol of strength and perseverance, overlooking our lands with silent grace that says a lot about our past,” Keon remarked.
Aside from the Gabu Watchtower ruins, the Tobacco Monopoly Monument was also restored by the city government and unveiled on the same day.
It was originally built in 1882 to express gratitude to King Alfonso VII of Spain for abolishing the monopoly after 100 years of oppressing the tobacco farmers.
These markers provided a vivid reminder of the importance of preserving Laoag City’s history for future generations while enhancing the city’s appeal as a cultural heritage and historical destination. (AMB/MJTAB/JFHG PIA Region 1-Ilocos Norte)
