A 15-meter high cross, with an estimated cost of P10 million, will soon stand on Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte and will serve as a historical marker to commemorate the spot where the first Christian Mass in the Philippines and in Asia was held.
The island was declared a tourism zone on Nov. 18, 1994 by virtue of R.A. 7822, which also declared that the island shall be “accorded priority development by the Department of Tourism.”
The Regional Development Council said the project is consistent with the local government unit’s National Tourism Development Plan. “Since it will be constructed on government property, it is eligible for funding assistance by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority.”
Once completed, the historical monument is expected to draw more tourists to the region. An improved roll-on, roll-off port and other facilities are up for construction.
On March 16, 1521, Magellan discovered Philippines, by anchoring first on Homonhon island of Guiuan, Eastern Samar.