Heritage Series: Pico de Loro’s “The Protector” (Imperial Japanese Type Dual-Purpose Gun)

If you're already staying at Pico de Loro, I think it's one of those attractions that's well worth taking a few minutes to check out.

The Protector is an Imperial Japanese Type Dual-Purpose Gun, a type of artillery developed by the Imperial Japanese military during World War II. As its name suggests, it was designed to engage both aerial and ground targets, making it a versatile defensive weapon during the war.

Although the peaceful surroundings of Pico de Loro make it hard to imagine the conflict that once reached Philippine shores, relics like this serve as reminders of a significant period in our nation's history. Rather than being forgotten, the artillery piece has been preserved so visitors can appreciate its historical value and reflect on the events that shaped the country decades ago.

It's a unique contrast; an artifact of war displayed within a resort that's now associated with leisure, family vacations, and weekend getaways.

Most visitors come to Pico de Loro for the beach, swimming pools, water activities, or simply to unwind. That's exactly what makes The Protector such an interesting stop. It adds a historical dimension to a destination that's primarily known for recreation.

I always enjoy finding these unexpected heritage attractions during my travels. They remind me that every place has layers of history waiting to be discovered, even in destinations that seem purely modern or recreational.

Standing beside the gun also gives you a better appreciation of its size and engineering. Reading about World War II is one thing, but seeing an actual military artifact up close makes history feel much more real.

I wouldn't recommend visiting Pico de Loro solely to see The Protector. However, if you're already spending the day or staying overnight at the resort, it's definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

It doesn't take much time to visit, making it an easy side trip between your resort activities. Whether you're exploring the grounds, taking a leisurely walk, or simply looking for something different to do, stopping by this historical display is a nice way to break up your day.

It's also an interesting attraction for history enthusiasts, students, photographers, and anyone who enjoys learning about the stories behind the places they visit.

If you're planning to see The Protector during your stay at Pico de Loro, here are a few tips:

Sometimes, the smallest attractions end up becoming the most memorable because they offer something unexpected.

Pico de Loro is undoubtedly one of the country's popular beach destinations, but The Protector reminds visitors that travel isn't just about beautiful landscapes or luxurious amenities. It's also about discovering the stories that make a place unique.

Historical landmarks like this help preserve memories of the past while giving travelers a chance to learn something new during their trip. They encourage us to look beyond the obvious attractions and appreciate the deeper history of the destinations we visit.

So, the next time you find yourself enjoying the beaches and facilities of Pico de Loro Cove, take a few extra minutes to visit The Protector (Imperial Japanese Type Dual-Purpose Gun). It may not be the resort's main attraction, but it's a meaningful reminder that even places known for relaxation can hold important pieces of Philippine history.

The Protector is an Imperial Japanese Type 10 120 mm dual-purpose gun. It was used during World War II, and was originally designed for ship use and was produced in large numbers during 1944. The gun was adapted as a dual-purpose gun, and was presumably used around the areas of Hamilo Coast during the war, about 50 or 60 nautical miles West.

Specifications: