PHL working with Japan to verify WWII shipwreck off Romblon

The Philippine government is working with Japan in verifying a World War II shipwreck reportedly found off Romblon’s coast.

 

During a press briefing on Thursday, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the National Museum is leading efforts to verify the supposed wreckage of a Japanese battleship.

 

Under Republic Act 10066, or the National Cultural Heritage Act, the National Museum has the authority "regulate and control all anthropological research conducted by foreigners” in the Philippines.

 

"The National Museum is working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the provisions of our existing laws are enforced and complied with,” Coloma told reporters.

 

Among these stakeholders are the Japanese government and the local government of Romblon, the Palace official said.

 

Coloma added that the National Museum is tapping the Philippine Coast Guard in its efforts to verify the shipwreck.

 

Earlier this week, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen announced via Twitter that a private exploration team located the Japanese battleship Musashi in the Sibuyan Sea off Sibuyan Island in Romblon. 

 

Musashi is supposedly one of the biggest battleships ever made. — JDS, GMA News