Maniguin Island lighthouse, Maritime lighthouse on Maniguin Island, Culasi, Philippines.
Maniguin Island lighthouse is a cylindrical concrete structure standing on the island's southeastern point to guide maritime traffic through local waters. The building serves as an active navigation aid for vessels traveling through the surrounding sea routes.
Construction started in 1906 during American colonial rule, using reinforced concrete rather than traditional stone building methods. This early adoption of modern materials made the structure more durable against local weather conditions.
The lighthouse marks the Cuyo East Passage, serving as a critical navigation point for vessels entering the Sulu Sea from Philippine waters.
Reaching the island requires a boat trip from Culasi town, which takes several hours and depends on favorable sea conditions. Visitors should arrange transportation in advance and allow plenty of time for the journey to and from the mainland.
The lighthouse features an internal spiral staircase with 87 steps and was originally equipped with a special Fresnel lens that projected light far across the ocean. This optical equipment was crucial for maritime navigation at the time it was built.
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