Talisay endorses Lagundi to draw tourists

Talisay City doesn't just want to be known as the best producer of "inasal" or roasted pig in the country but would also want to be recognized as an "aqua city," or a dive destination in the south of the province, to attract more tourists.

In the frontline of this thrust is City Councilor Shirley Belleza, who chairs the tourism committee. Belleza was instrumental in the success of last year's "Inasal Festival."

Because of her constant endorsement of Lagundi Reef, tourists are beginning to flock to the city. More than a few divers have already expressed their willingness to try the reef. Lagundi Reef is just a few minutes by motorboat from Larawan Beach in barangay Poblacion.

The recent discovery of a "500-pound bell" whose age could easily be put at more than a hundred years old could be the reason why all and sundry is practically itching to see Lagundi Reef, its corals and other marines creatures, said diving instructor Anthony "Bong" Nator, who, along with his Talisay City Swimming and Life Saving Association, Inc., was commissioned to watch this marine sanctuary.

But just before anyone could determine the bell's age, three anti-aircraft bullets were found on its seabed.

With 4.5 hectares, the sanctuary could still hold treasures waiting to be discovered, Belleza said.

Larawan Beach as well as the long stretch of Poblacion's shoreline was frequented by Japanese soldiers during World War II. In this very shore was where the US 7th Fleet Task Force landed on March 26, 1945 to liberate the province from the Japanese. The city celebrates this event every year.

Unconfirmed reports say that before the Americans landed in Talisay, two fighter planes had crashed in the reef. Two galleons are also believed to have sunk in the same place centuries earlier.

These galleons, many believe, might have carried a lot of treasures.

A galleon is a large three-masted sailing ship with a square rig and usually two or more decks, used from the 15th to the 17th century especially by Spain as a merchant ship or warship.

A World War II soldier's insignia was the first to be found.

Another account points to a plane being hauled off to Minglanilla town by treasure hunters. However, Belleza said she is verifying the report. She said that even without these stories, she strongly believes that there are more artifacts to be found in Lagundi that Talisay could be proud of.

She said what is important to her is to know the historical background of the city. She said only by knowing its historical background can the city make some progress.

A heritage museum that would display all of these artifacts may be built on the shore, or, as being planned, these may be displayed in an underwater museum to serve as another attraction for tourists. If an aircraft is found, it could be a major attraction in the depths, Belleza said.

Meanwhile, in preparation for the huge number of divers that is expected to come to Talisay, Belleza said the Tourist Seaside Hotel, located just a few meters from Larawan Beach, is already planning to have its own rent-a-scuba diving gear shop.

The city will only charge P100 for the visitor (P50 for those who come from Talisay) for a guided tour underwater, and a motorized boat fee of P500. For first-time divers, the TCSLSAI, whose office is just within the area, gives diving lessons for a fee.

"We are enjoining all resorts and hotels to renovate in preparation for the expected influx of tourists, said Belleza. The city has a number of the hotels scattered in the different barangays, ready to serve.

Right now, after the public hearing for the Proposed Ordinance for the protection of the Lagundi Reef last week, the city has tightened its security on the reef.

Security guards are assigned to watch on a round-the-clock basis with fast boats at their disposal.