PAGWANAWANAN: A GLIMPSE OF THE PAST

By: Vice Mamaril, GPC–PIO

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The town of Luna, La Union, named after the town’s famous sons Gen. Antonio and painter Juan Luna and formerly called Namacpacan, is the home of the famous and historical landmark that signifies the province’ rich history - the Baluarte or Luna Watch Tower. The 400 year old historical landmark is situated in Barangay Victoria.

The watch tower was built during the pre-Spanish times and considered a national treasure by the National Historical Institute. It serves as the lookout point for possible attacks by pirates or danger coming from the sea. Because of its size and height, guards were able to alert the towns people and prepare peace officers to safeguard the properties and lives of their constituents. During the World War II, it functioned as the communication tower post for temporary airfield for the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon forces.

Like other century-old Spanish structures, the baluarte was also made of adobe, bricks and coral blocks held together by lime and white eggs.

Year 2015, half of the tower collapsed after it was hit by strong winds and big huge waves caused by a typhoon. Thru the local government and concerned agencies, the watchtower underwent restoration. Today, the watch tower have been concreted and topped with adobe bricks to cater to visitors while enjoying the beautiful view of pebble beach of Luna.

Aside from Luna watchtower, there are also other watch towers in the province that witnessed La Union forefathers’ bravery in the midst of calamities and attacks.

The Almeida watchtower in Balaoan is connected in the towers of the neighboring town of Luna, Bacnotan and San Juan.

The Moro watchtower in San Fernando City, made up of coral stones, is circular in plan overlooking the San Fernando bay area.

The San Juan watchtower is located in the Municipality of San Juan. 80% of the structure was reconstructed and only 20% remained are the original brick and stone wall. The original wall can be seen at the northwest side of the tower.

Lastly, the Bacnotan watchtower is located inside a privately walled compound. It is also made of general bricks and coral stones. Of all the watchtowers in the province, this is the most distant from the sea.

The Baluartes that once became witnesses to the courage of the people of La Union will continue to be emblems of the people of La Union, being strong and united like how the towers were built.