Ferdinand Magellan's Rock in Homhonhon Has Been Vandalized

There is a rock in Homonhon Island that s believed to bear the initials of Ferdinand Magellan, allegedly carved by the Portuguese explorer himself when they arrived on the island 500 years ago. But now, the artifact, which came to be known as “Magellan’s Rock,” has been vandalized. 

Magellan was a Portuguese explorer who sailed under the flag of Spain in the first circumnavigation of the world. 

Rocky Coastline of Homonhon Island

Photo by Rizbelle | Shutterstock.

In a report by CNN Philippines, UP professor Rolando Borrinaga, says Magellan’s initials on the rock were partially covered with cement and written over with the word “Calbayog.”

Another historic rock bearing the initials of Martin de Ayamonte (an apprentice aboard Magellan’s ship) and Cristobal Rabelo (alleged bastard of Magellan) now has numerous other markings.

Magellan's Rock Vandalized and Partially Covered in Cement

Photo by MBDP | Shutterstock.

Second Rock Bearing the Initials of Martin de Ayamonte and Cristobal Rabelo

Marker Destroyed by Treasure Hunters in the 1970s

According to Borrinaga, a marker was placed in the area in 1952 but was destroyed treasure hunters in the 1970s. They believed there was gold buried at the site. 

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) is planning to install a new marker to protect the site and raise awareness.