LakbayLoyd Lighthouse Series 04 : FARO DE CABO ENGANO, Palaui Island, Sta. Ana, Cagayan

Faro de Cabo Engano, or Cape Engano, was built in 1892. This historic landmark stands in the extreme northeastern end of Luzon and situated on the highest point in Palaui Island, Sta. Ana, Cagayan.

Recently, Palaui Island was featured as a location for the reality show "Survivor" which earned the island's popularity among local and foreign tourists. Aside from the white sand beaches, the lighthouse is frequently visited because of the scenic view it can offer.

Cape Engano was part of the masterplan by the Spaniards to illuminate the whole Philippine archipelago (also part of the plan is the Cape Bojeador). But, just like most of the lighthouses built during the Spanish era, Cape Engano was unkept and left in ruins at the turn of the 20th century. Now, the octagonal stone tower and keeper's house are still standing but somehow the structures were dilapidated and cracked.

Hoping to preserve its historical and cultural significance, Cape Engano was declared as National Cultural Heritage site by the National Historical Commission.

To get there : Take the bus to Tuguegarao City from Manila (10 hours). From Tuguegarao, take a van going to Sta, Ana (2.5  hours). Take a tricycle to get you to San Vicente Port. Register at the Tourism Office, pay the banca ride (good for 5) for the entire day going to and from Palaui Island.