Corregidor Island | 48 Hours Inside Philippines’ Most Haunted Island

July 25, 2023July 26, 2023 Rex Lim Lim ADVENTURE, BLOG, BUDGET, GUIDE, HOW TO, ITINERARY, TOURIST SPOTS, TRANSIT PINAS, TRAVEL GUIDE

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Corregidor Island, Cavite: Located at the mouth of Manila Bay, Corregidor is known for its rich historical significance, especially during World War II. It was the site of significant battles and has witnessed thousands of violent deaths that have led to various ghost stories and paranormal legends.

So we spent the next 48 hours alone on the infamous island. Come and join us in this haunted adventure inside Fort Mills as we dive straight into horror…

I Shall Return

Table of Contents

Corregidor Island, also known as Fort Mills is steeped in history, and like many places with a turbulent past, has accumulated numerous ghost stories and tales of paranormal activity.

During World War II, the island was a strategic location and saw intense fighting, which resulted in a significant loss of life. These historical events have contributed to the island’s reputation as being haunted.

It is also during this period when Corregidor fell and Gen. MacArthur said the immortal phrase “I shall return”. Indeed, as he went back, the tides switched which led to our freedom from the Japanese forces. Today, looking back at the brutal narratives this island has seen, things started to take a dark turn, as unexplained phenomena started to return in this part of Manila Bay.

While there are many ghost stories associated with Corregidor, it’s important to remember that they are based on local legends, personal experiences, and folklore, and as the popular adage goes: “To see, is to believe”

No Guarantees

We crossed the polluted waters of Manila Bay on an early Saturday morning aboard our rented outrigger boats from Naic, Cavite. A faint outline of Corregidor Island came into view, and after an hour, the tadpole-shaped island greeted us with its calm coastline.

Initially, we asked for permission to camp at the abandoned hospital grounds, but to no avail, we were being charged higher fees by the management, so we opted to set up camp at the gazebos facing the South Dock and Caballo Island.

The sun slowly waned from the horizon that afternoon, the amber glow of the dying light against the skeletal ruins of the Middleside Barracks now turned into a ghastly structure as the darkness started to creep in.

What was once a touristy sight made of rubble and ruins, with an enlightening outlook on our history during the day, now looked like something straight out of a horror movie that night. Indeed, some things are better served in the dark, and our long night is just about to start. Whatever happens tonight, there are definitely no guarantees.

Abandoned Hospital

Along the pitch-black asphalt roads from Battery Way, we entered a dirt road that led into a thick forest. Guided by our flashlights, the trees ensued in a clearing where the three-story ruin of what was once called the Fort Mills Hospital lie.

The hospital, now being reclaimed by nature, is also as severely damaged as the surrounding structures of the Topside Area. To add, it has four wings that look like a cross when viewed from above, in turn, this will signal any aircraft to spare the building as it is a medical facility. But Japan, not being a fan of the Geneva Convention at the time, still targeted the hospital along with everybody inside of it.

Wafts of cold breeze started to come from all sides as we entered the building. Names of people and petty stuff were written on the walls. But it was a grim reminder, our guide told us that they were left by Muslim Soldiers from Sulu who were slaughtered by the army while they were training to infiltrate Sabah. Only one survived but is still subject to debates that have been going on for decades – this is infamously known as the Jabidah Massacre. Read more HERE.

As we were discussing on the topmost floor, a gunshot was fired, probably from the ground floor. But no one was there that night. They said it might be from the Coastguard or Navy issuing a warning shot to illegal fishermen in the area, but their posts are several kilometers away which is at the far side of the docking area.

Topside – Mile-Long Barracks

The island saw countless battles, where many soldiers drew their final breaths. Kamikaze air raids and carpet bombings left the island in utter disrepair which turned buildings at the topside into crumbling concrete skeletons as we saw that night.

The topside was the most vulnerable part of the island as it lies at the highest ground. Some of the buildings include the old cinema, lighthouse, and most notably, the Mile-Long Barracks.

Topside Barracks, also known as Mile-Long Barracks, was one of the significant structures on Corregidor Island during World War II. It was a massive military complex located on the Topside area of the island. The barracks were named “Mile-Long” due to their immense size, stretching approximately 1,520 feet (460 meters) along the coastline.

The Mile-Long Barracks was constructed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in the early 1900s. It served as a garrison for American soldiers stationed on Corregidor and housed various facilities, including administrative offices, living quarters, mess halls, and recreational areas.

It is also reported that some heard strange noises, and feelings of unease while exploring these locations. Cold spots, on the other hand, were present during that night in various areas particularly at the Commissary Building, the 300-Steps shortcut, and the Mile-Long Barracks, where we just fell silent and kept on walking until those goosebumps started to subside.

It is said that along its hollow and empty halls, many have experienced many things that are out of the ordinary. Visitors have claimed to see apparitions of soldiers dressed in World War II-era uniforms. These ghostly figures are often spotted near the ruins of military installations or walking along the island’s paths.

Hiked back up early the following morning alone just to get a good view of the Top Side Area.

Malinta Tunnel Laterals

Our feet started to get sore from all the walking that night, it was the witching hour but we soldiered on. From the topside, we went back down near the docks to enter the Laterals of the Malinta Tunnel.

The Malinta Tunnel on Corregidor Island is one of the most famous locations for ghost stories and paranormal legends. The tunnel was originally constructed as a bomb-proof storage facility during the American colonial period and was later expanded and used as a hospital and headquarters during World War II.

During the Battle of Corregidor in World War II, the Malinta Tunnel witnessed intense fighting and became a site of significant suffering and death. The tunnel housed wounded soldiers and civilians seeking shelter during the siege, and it was the site of many tragic events.

As we went deeper into the laterals, the heavy feeling weighed down on us. It was creepy enough that we all chose to stick together and not wander entirely alone.

Some parts of the laterals were completely charred, it is said that aside from the explosion of the gas tanks, Japanese soldiers who did not surrender were burned alive with flamethrowers. Some committed suicide by detonating their grenades, and the damage of the shrapnel on the floor and ceiling are still evident today.

Moreover, the combination of its historical significance and the traumatic experiences that occurred within its walls has contributed to its reputation as a haunted location.

We exited the tunnels and returned to our campsite before the sun started to rise. We spent the rest of the morning swimming at South Beach before we returned to the mainland. What an experience.

Respect the History

In summary, if you wish to explore the paranormal stories of Corregidor Island, approach the experience with respect, sensitivity, and an open mind. Always prioritize safety, follow the rules, and consider the historical significance of the site during your visit.

It’s essential to approach these stories with a healthy dose of skepticism, as the supernatural claims are not scientifically proven. Many factors can contribute to such experiences, including the power of suggestion, the island’s eerie atmosphere, and the psychological impact of its history which can influence people’s perceptions and experiences.

If you’re interested in exploring the haunted side of Corregidor, consider joining a guided tour or speaking with locals who might share their ghost stories. Remember to respect the island’s historical significance and the memories of those who lost their lives there. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, visiting Corregidor is an opportunity to learn about its rich history and pay tribute to the events that shaped the Philippines during World War II.

Respect the history: Remember that Corregidor Island is not just a playground for ghost hunting; it holds immense historical value and significance. Thousands of lives were lost during the war, and many families still have connections to those who fought there. Treat the island and its remnants with respect and sensitivity.

How to Get There:

Corregidor Island is located at the mouth of Manila Bay. While it may seem closer to Bataan, the island is still essentially part of the province of Cavite.

From Manila, take any bus in PITX that is bound for Naic or Ternate, and ask the driver to drop you off at the welcome arch of Timalan Conception. (80php/pax, 1 hour travel time)

At the welcome arch, charter a tricycle to bring you to La Villa Maria Stella Resort. (20php/pax, 10 minutes travel time)
Permits, guide, and fees to be collected as of June 2023:
- Boat Rental: 7000php for overnight trips, good for 7pax.
  - Contact: Jomar Maranan – 0953 218 2864
  - Pick-up location: La Villa Maria Stella, Timalan, Naic, Cavite
  - Please include the boatmen in your meals as they will also be staying in the island throughout your stay.
Corregidor Fees:
- Entrance Fee: 300php/head (Mandatory)
- Camping Fee: 200php/head (Mandatory)
- Docking Fee: 100php/boat
- Tramvia Tour: 10,000php/10pax – 2-3 hours (Optional)
- Transportation: 500php/pax Bottom Side to Top Side, vice versa (Optional)
- Guide Fee: Arrange this personally with the guide on the island

Alternatively, you can call the Corregidor Foundation for more queries:
- Melody Bondoc, Sales & Marketing Officer
  - Corregidor Foundation Inc., Rm. 10 Bay Terminal, CCP Complex,
  - Telephone Number: +63 02 8823 3281
  - Mobile Number: +63 977 643 4819
There are restrooms with fresh water for bathing and washing near the campsite facing South Beach.

Important Things to Remember

Follow the rules: Corregidor Island is a tourist destination, and there are rules and regulations in place for visitors. Follow the guidelines set by the island’s management and authorities to ensure your safety and the preservation of the site.

Avoid trespassing: Some areas of the island may be restricted or off-limits to visitors. Do not attempt to enter restricted areas or trespass on private property.

Nighttime safety: If you decide to explore the island at night for ghost hunting, take appropriate safety precautions. Bring flashlights, first aid kits, and extra supplies. Inform someone responsible about your plans and expected return time.

Be skeptical: Approach ghost hunting with a critical and open mind. Many alleged paranormal experiences have plausible explanations, such as natural phenomena or psychological factors. Avoid jumping to conclusions or assuming every unexplained event is supernatural.

No guarantees: Remember that ghost hunting does not guarantee encounters with the paranormal. Corregidor’s ghost stories are based on various accounts, but not everyone experiences paranormal activity.

Environmental concerns: As with any adventure, be mindful of the environment. Avoid leaving any trash or disturbing wildlife on the island.

Consider joining a group: If you’re new to ghost hunting or paranormal investigations, consider joining an organized tour or group experienced in such activities. They can provide guidance, safety measures, and a more structured approach to the experience.

You may contact Jake Bataller for more info: Facebook Account Here