About Balangay Shrine
The Balangay Shrine in Butuan City is a remarkable window into the Philippines’ ancient maritime heritage. This historical site houses the remains of the famed balangay or “Butuan boat,” the oldest wooden watercraft ever excavated in Southeast Asia. Visiting the Balangay Shrine feels like stepping back in time, offering a deeper appreciation for the early Filipinos’ craftsmanship, seafaring skills, and thriving trade long before the Spanish arrived.
If I am not mistaken, it was discussed when I was in the fifth grade, in HEKASI. I am happy that today, it’s time to see the actual relics of Balangay, discovered in Butuan. Since the guard did not allow me to use my DSLR or even my digital camera, the photos below were captured using my mobile camera.
The coffin burials that led to the discovery of the boat lie 16 meters east of the boat. Similar to the inhumation in Suatan, Butuan, the coffins contain 14th-15th century materials associated with remains having deformed skulls. Nine of these coffins were uncovered in a single trench, but all the materials have been disturbed by the pothunters. Reports have been made of multiple burials in the coffins, which, unlike coffin burials in rock shelters in the Central Philippine areas, were apparently primary burials with the remains fully extended. The coffins proportionately are large, measuring approximately 3 meters.
Although proximate to the boat, the coffin burials have no chronological reference to the 12-13th century midden later. The burials are situated on the high ground beyond the eastern limits of the midden – source: National Museum, Butuan.
There are old photos taken during the excavation of the Balangay decades ago.
A visit to the Balangay Shrine is more than just exploring an archaeological site—it’s a chance to reconnect with the roots of Filipino identity. Standing before the ancient boats, you’ll feel a sense of pride for the ingenuity and resilience of our ancestors. The Balangay Shrine reminds every traveler that the story of the Filipino people began not on land, but on the vast and open seas.
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