Corregidor: Gibraltar of the East

Corregidor Island formerly known as Fort Mills is one of the 4 islets scattered across Manila Bay. Given its strategic location to spot enemy ships before passing through the country's capital, it was fortified by the USA during the Commonwealth era. Heavy duty guns, mortars, facilities, electricity powered tranvia, military barracks and headquarters were placed in the island amounting to $350,000,000 in investments. It was an island fortress pre World War 2. 

This island was the last military frontline and place in our country to surrender from the invading Japanese Imperial Army. The soil, rocks, and ruins once bear witness to both the Filipino and American soldiers' unfazed heroism to defend our country. Nostalgia overwhelmed me upon setting foot on this sacred grounds.

Corregidor Island is the third World War 2 Memorial I've visited; first one was in Plaza Cuartel, Puerto Princesa City followed by Kundasang War Memorial in Malaysia. Undoubtedly, Corregidor topped my list. From Gen. Douglas MacArthur's famous quote, "I shall return!" 😊

75 years after the war, Corregidor sleeps with her ghosts. Its rubble, abandoned guns, and dilapidated ruins lay muted from the horrors of war it once took part in. She stood her ground against the enemies that trampled our sacred shores. She lays in the stillness of the light at day, and darkness by dusk, waiting to be visited by those who have not forgotten her, and her sons.