When was the last time you visited Corregidor or have seen it on a post card? Well, me, it's not interesting to know that I haven't been to Corregidor and knowing that I'm a History graduate (not proud of that). I have only seen it on photos and videos plus read stories about the place on different print medias. This is one of the  historical place that plays an important role in our history, the Philippine History, and I missed a lot of opportunities to go there. Never been there but longing to visit and experience the place.

Just recently, July 4, I attended a press launch and unveiling of the new brand of Corregidor. It is an event where the Corregidor Foundation (CFI), the Department of Tourism through its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), and the Tourism Infrastructure and Economic Zone Authority (TIEZA) launched it new brand called CORREGIDOR NOW.  This the agencies way of creating better improvements and plans for the tourism of the island. The launch was held on a date where Filipinos and Americans are celebrating the Filipino-American Friendship Day.

It was sad to know only few people have been to Corregidor and I'm one of them. Perhaps for some few reasons, and one of which is going to Corregidor really takes time and effort.

Today, I was hoping that after the introduction of the plans and changes maybe more will be enticed, excited and encouraged to visit the place.

But before you take the tour in Corregidor here are some facts that you should know about the place.

1. Corregidor was once been the capital of the Philippines. At the break of World War II, President Manuel L. Quezon move the capital of the Philippines to Corregidor and took office in the island together with his cabinets and other officials. This is one of the most secured military bases and garrisons during that time. But as the battle begun and the US and Filipino forces were on the loosing end, President Manuel L. Quezon together with other officials and cabinet members were secured and fled to Australia.  

2. The Americans funded $150M for the construction of the facilities and weaponries inside the island of Corregidor. These includes facilities such as hospital, barracks, movie houses, recreational facilities, commissary, and other structures that you usually find in a base. It took much time before it is completed but was finished in time before the World War II breaks out.

3. The Malinta Tunnel's lateral section is believed can accommodate 100 hospital beds that is why during the World War II many soldiers and civilians were treated here. At the same time a lot of people died in the place that according to some there were sightings and 'paramdam' were felt by some visitors. Malinta Tunnel is a 836-foot-long, fishbone-shaped system of bombproof tunnels with three 227meter by 8 meter main sections and 24 49meter x 4.5-meter laterals. The cement used for the its 30-foot to 40-foot thick walls are called Asada cement which was bought from the Japanese. 

4. Corregidor island's 'disappearing' gun batteries. These guns were created and mounted on a disappearing carriage that enabled the guns to hide from direct attack. The Battery Crockett and Cheney, each had two 12-inch 'seacoast guns', while Battery Grubbs had two 10-inch guns. All-in-all the whole island of Corregidor together with the adjoining islands have 56 coastal guns and mortars in 23 seacoast batteries and 76 (28 3-inch and 48 50-caliber) anti-aircraft guns in 13 batteries. That's why it is one of the strongest defense during World War II. 

5. The island of Corregidor does not only have its ruins of the past but also the diverse ecosystem within it. That's why it is a paradise during the time it was built because of the tropic island features.

After the appointment of Cynthia Carrion by President Rodrigo Duterte as the Chairman and CEO of Corregidor Foundation Inc., she spearheaded the new strategic campaign, dubbed as "CORREGIDOR NOW", which aims to deliver a stronger and unified voice for the whole island, bringing it to greater heights as a tourism attraction.

"For years, Corregidor Island seemed to be perceived solely as a popular historical site, with its idyllic features unknown to many," according to Carrion. "With our campaign, we hope that it will usher in a new era for this eco-historical location, making it known as a place of sanctuary where one can enjoy a relaxing opportunity to revel in the past," she added.

TIEZA is developing a comprehensive master plan for the redevelopment of Corregidor and the proposed rehabilitation of the Corregidor South Dock Pier, Under the marketing campaign, they will implement more proactive promotional efforts in various forms of media to inform the public and entice target markets to visit the island.

With all the tourist destinations in the Philippines, Corregidor Island is the only one where you can truly dive deep into history while enjoying the best of tropical Philippines, It is the picture-perfect showcase of the variety of fun and adventure offered on its land, sea, and air. Carrion invites Filipinos to come together, enjoy, and explore the historical paradise that is an ultimate relaxation and fun adventure sanctuary.

To book a tour or know more about Corregidor, please email info@corregidorisland.com.ph or visit www.corregiorisland.com.ph or call +632.8233281.

If you're looking for something different to do in the New York City area, we've got a list of several great destinations for you. These historic attractions aren't the well-known sites that every tourist hits, however. Some are off the beaten path, but they're all worth your time.

Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum

The land where the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum sits is part of Pelham Bay Park, New York City's largest park. Thomas Pell acquired this property from the Lenape people in 1654. The historic home that now graces the grounds was completed around 1842. It's the last remaining grand 19th-century country house overlooking Pelham Bay.

Besides touring the mansion, you can stroll through the magnificent terraced garden or attend one of the museum's special events. Photographers can even book photo sessions to capture a picturesque setting.

General Grant National Memorial

Image via Flickr by shinya

You can pay your respects to two-term President Ulysses S. Grant, who also served as commanding general of the U.S. Army. His and his wife's bodies rest in the General Grant National Memorial, the largest mausoleum in North America. Here you can learn more about the bloody history of the Civil War that tore American families apart, as well as Grant's efforts that ultimately led to the preservation of the Union.

Visit this national park, and you can address the often-asked riddle, "Who is buried in Grant's tomb?" But just in case you don't get to go, no one is buried there. Grant and his wife are entombed in an above-ground mausoleum.

Hicksville Gregory Museum

If you dig the earth, you'll love the Hicksville Gregory Museum, home to the Long Island Earth Science Center. You can tour the museum and take in exhibits on minerals, fossils, local history, and more. Group tours are available as well.

You'll also find the Heitz Place Courthouse in Hicksville. This historic building is one of the last (if not the last) remaining judicial buildings in Nassau County from the time when the county was still part of Queens. The renovated courthouse now houses the museum's collections.

Book a hotel stay in Hicksville and spend some time exploring this link to New York's past.

Prospect Park

Prospect Park is often called Brooklyn's Backyard because of its oasis of green space in the middle of an urban landscape. The park was built in the mid-19th century and hosts more than 10 million people on its lush 585 acres each year.

You don't have to be a Brooklynite to enjoy all the park has to offer. Take part in horseback riding, birdwatching, fishing, running, team sports, and even yoga. And that's just the beginning of what you can do at this relaxing and beautiful destination.

Historic Richmond Town

For an authentic step back into America's past, plan a visit to Staten Island's Historic Richmond Town. The onsite museum houses more than 130,000 artifacts, photographs, and archival collections that date all the way back to the 17th century.

Guided specialty tours of the grounds are offered three days a week, including "Eating America," which focuses on early American food preparation, and "Light, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness," where you can experience a taste of life before electricity.

Forget about the standard New York City tourist traps. The treasures on this list will provide you with plenty to see and do around the Big Apple.