HISTORY WATCH: Old Del Monte Airstrip at Camp 3 in Manolo Fortich to be preserved as historical landmark

The old Del Monte Airstrip at Camp 3 in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon will be established as a significant historical landmark. The project which has been listed by the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center aims to preserve its historical significance as a landmark associated with World War II and promote tourism development and contribute to the economic growth of the region. It is one of three projects in Manolo Fortich added to the list of projects under PPP.

Below is the map and location of the airstrip.

The specific objectives of the project are as follows:

To preserve the historical significance of the Old Del Monte Airstrip as a landmark associated with World War II;
To strengthen the municipality’s identity and sense of belonging by preserving and celebrating its historical heritage;
To attract tourists interested in aviation history and local heritage, thereby contributing to the overall tourism development and economic growth of the municipality; and
To provide employment opportunities for the people in the municipality particularly in tourism and other related industries.

The project also includes the construction of the following.

Historical Landmark/Marker
Parking Area
Museum
Operational Airstrip
Hangar
Souvenir Shop
Cafe
Aviation School

The old airstrip surrounded by pineapple fields is still visible.

In 2023, plans for the landmark began following the arrival of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Historical Marker for the Del Monte Airstrip at Camp 3. The Local Government of Manolo Fortich promptly held a coordination meeting with representatives from Del Monte Philippines, Inc. to discuss and present development plans for the airstrip, which has been officially recognized as a historical site.

Below is a preliminary design of a 16-foot-high landmark featuring an aircraft figure, planned for construction at the site. The project is subject to approval from Del Monte Philippines, Inc. (DMPI) and the Del Monte Phils. Inc. Employees Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (DEARBC).

History records stated that the airstrip served as a refuge to aircrafts after the bombings made by the Japanese at the Luzon airport in 1941 during World War II. It also served as a base for aircrafts that attacked Japanese soldiers in Vigan, Legaspi, and Lingayen from December 10-14, 1941 and as landing area for the relief goods sent for the Filipinos and Americans in Bataan.

By the way, this airstrip is different from the current Gen. Douglas MacArthur Landmark located in Diclum, also in Manolo Fortich, where MacArthur left for Australia on his escape.