The Philippine expedition to sail the Southeast Asian seas in replicas of traditional boats finish their 14-month voyage today and return to Manila after sailing to several countries in the region.
Filipino flotilla ends 14-month voyage Monday
Manila Bulletin, 12 December 2010
The Filipino flotilla that journeyed the entire South East Asian region for more than a year on board ancient plank boats will formally end its journey as it docks Monday at Harbor Square, CCP Complex in Pasay City.
It had 39 crew members, headed by former Transportation and Communication Undersecretary Arturo Valdez.
Throughout their 14-month voyage, Valdez said they were able to visit seven countries in the region, including Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia and the Coast of Vietnam.
Karen Ramos of San Miguel Properties, major sponsor of the voyage, said Valdez’s group would be welcomed by several personalities including former President Fidel Ramos, Vice President Jejomar Binay, Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Teofisto Guingona III.
The voyage marks a significant part of history as it is the first time that a plank boat replicated from what was used by the first Philippine inhabitants from the Southern Coast of mainland Asia during the 4th century, was used anew during these modern times.
