A comprehensive archaeological initiative is set to begin in three Northern Samar towns, marking the province’s first systematic and large-scale archaeological study since the 1960s, officials said Wednesday.
Jay Keenson Acebuche, Northern Samar provincial planning and development officer, said the initial phase of fieldwork and surveys will take place in the towns of Catubig, Mapanas, and Laoang, which were identified as potential archaeological sites.
The initiative follows coordination meetings between Filipino archaeologist Dr. Emil Charles Robles and provincial and local government units in preparation for the 2026 archaeological research program.
“The said initiative is an endeavor to mark the first proper and serious archaeological studies and survey in Northern Samar since the 1960s, reaffirming the province’s commitment to archaeological research, heritage preservation and documentation,” Acebuche said in a phone interview.
Catubig, historically recognized as the first capital of Ibabao (the old name of Northern Samar), holds significant colonial-era importance. It was the site that first welcomed Jesuit missionaries in the late 16th century and played a role in key historical events, such as the Sumuroy Revolt of 1649–1650 and the Battle of Catubig in 1900.
In Mapanas, archaeologists will conduct onsite assessments of the Sang-at Burial site and a cave in Jubasan village where a tooth believed to belong to a megalodon shark has reportedly been discovered.
Laoang will host a seven-day exploration of caves and other archaeological sites on the islands of Batag and Cahayagan to assess their cultural and scientific significance.
“Dr. Robles outlined the objectives, methodology, timeline, and institutional requirements of the archaeological activities to ensure alignment with local development priorities and regulatory procedures. The discussions likewise emphasized heritage preservation, community participation, and inter-agency collaboration,” Acebuche added.
Provincial officials said the project is expected to contribute to evidence-based planning and open new opportunities for archaeological research and heritage preservation. (PNA)