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Cape Melville Lighthouse

Cape Melville Lighthouse, Melville, Balabac, Palawan, Mimaropa, Philippines

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Cape Melville Lighthouse (Balabac)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Cape Melville Lighthouse

The Cape Melville Lighthouse is situated on the island of Balabac, the southernmost point of the province of Palawan in the Philippines.

It can be accessed via a paved road that leads to the lighthouse site.

History

The first-order light was constructed by the Spaniards in 1892 to illuminate Balabac Strait, the treacherous body of water separating the Philippines from Malaysia.

The lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding mariners through this hazardous passage.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The lighthouse is built using glass-reinforced plastic and features a distinctive design.

Its tower height is not specified, but its focal height is reportedly 50 meters.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a white light with a period of 5 seconds, characterized by a Fl (first-order) pattern.

The range of the light is not provided.

Current Status

The Cape Melville Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, operated by Brooke’s Point Station of the Philippine Coast Guard.

However, its status as an automated lighthouse is unclear.

Heritage Status

The lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance and cultural importance in the Philippines.

Notable Historical Events

  • No notable events are recorded for this lighthouse.

Details

NameCape Melville Lighthouse
CityBalabac
CountryPhilippines
Coordinates7.817488, 117.003006
Current useactive aid to navigation