In the year 1405, Zheng He led an enormous fleet to the narrow, elongated island in the eastern South China Sea, where a prominent overseas Chinese leader was appointed as governor. From then on, Chinese technologies such as shipbuilding, textile, pottery, and tea cultivation were introduced and disseminated on this island. Since the Song and Yuan dynasties, the island’s natural harbors attracted numerous Chinese merchant ships. The island got its name from a small local kingdom called Luzon. Yet, it became known as Little Luzon, while the term Big Luzon referred to the entirety of the Philippines, as only Luzon Island could represent the entire nation.

Over 2,000 years ago, indigenous tribes on the island terraced the mountains. In an era devoid of transportation tools, they shouldered and hand-carried stones, constructing a 19,000-kilometer-long embankment for the terraced fields—using more stones than the Egyptian pyramids. To this day, on this segment known as the Stairway to Heaven, ancient methods of manual and animal-powered farming are still visible everywhere. Upholding these archaic planting traditions, Luzon Island has evolved into the nation’s granary in the present day.

At the southwest end of the island lies Subic Bay, with a depth of nearly 50 meters, making it easily defensible. Over 200 years ago, Spanish colonizers developed this area into a military port. In 1898, the naval base was seized by the U.S. military. Subsequently, this new master designated it as a crucial support base in Asia, transforming Subic Bay into a modernized facility for the United States Marine Corps. In 1991, the most intense volcanic eruption in a century globally buried this location. Before the United States could initiate restoration efforts, the Philippine government reclaimed Subic Bay, bringing an end to its history as a military base.

At the southwest end of the island lies Subic Bay, with a depth of nearly 50 meters, making it easily defensible. Over 200 years ago, Spanish colonizers developed this area into a military port. In 1898, the naval base was seized by the U.S. military. Subsequently, this new master designated it as a crucial support base in Asia, transforming Subic Bay into a modernized facility for the United States Marine Corps. In 1991, the most intense volcanic eruption in a century globally buried this location. Before the United States could initiate restoration efforts, the Philippine government reclaimed Subic Bay, bringing an end to its history as a military base.

Several sunken ships of various nationalities rest in eternal slumber near Luzon Island. Covered with seaweed, shells, and coral, their hulls have become popular diving spots among the youth. Perhaps, strength truly does emerge from the passages of time.