Parched Philippine dam reveals centuries-old town, luring tourists
The ruins of a centuries-old town have emerged at a dam parched by drought in the northern Philippines, giving residents a rare spectacle and luring tourists.
NUEVA ECIJA, Philippines — Ruins of a centuries-old town have emerged at a dam parched by drought in the northern Philippines, giving residents a rare spectacle and an extra source of income in a region dependent on rice-growing.
Following a prolonged spell with little rain, the dried-up dam has revealed parts of a sunken church and foundations of old structures from the old town in Nueva Ecija province in recent weeks.
“When I heard about the sunken church of old Pantabangan town resurfacing, I got excited and wanted to see it,” said 61-year-old retired nurse Aurea Delos Santos.
Low water levels of Pantabangan Dam in Nueva Ecija. Jam Sta Rosa / AFP - Getty ImagesSome locals have cashed in on the attraction, ferrying tourists to the island. “Back then, I was only earning 200 pesos ($3.50) from fishing, but when the tourists arrived, I’m earning 1,500 to 1,800 per day,” said fisherman Nelson Dellera.
The old town was relocated in the 1970s during the construction of a dam, which now serves as the main irrigation and water source for Nueva Ecija and nearby provinces, according to the local government.
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