This is the Watchtower or Baluarte or Bantayan Sa Hari of Alegria, Cebu. The town, located 110 kilometers southwest of Cebu City, is a sleepy seaside one with a peaceful character. In contrast to the calm atmosphere of today, this structure once stood vigilant against threats from the sea. The name Bantayan Sa Hari translates to “The Lookout/Watchtower of the King,” referring to its historical connection either to the King of Spain or to God, represented by the priests who played a large part in the construction of these coastal defenses. This Alegria History landmark stands as a silent reminder of the town’s colonial past and its role in safeguarding the southern coast of Cebu. Visitors exploring Alegria History will find that the Baluarte not only reflects Spanish-era military architecture but also symbolizes the enduring faith and resilience of the local community.
Moro Pirates from Mindanao would come in search of riches and people to take as slaves, in response, this watchtower was built by the people as part of an early warning system. The structure was built with mamposteria (a mixture of coral rubble and lime mortar). As to why there are two portals, it is up for speculation, but there is a possibility that there was once a wall surrounding the church property as can be seen at the church complexes of Boljoon and Oslob. These towns (like Alegria) would be reinforced with large Bantayan sa Hari that formed a chain wherein each was, if not visible from eachother, could be identified and notified using smoke signals, shells that could be used as horns (Budyong) and in later years the telegraph.
Today, the area is enclosed and protected by a fence within the Alegria Heritage Park, and the site is quite well preserved in comparison with other comparable ones in other towns. The heritage park is a shining example of the minimum that should be done to appreciate and preserve these structures.
