As Batanes is often visited by typhoons, the Ivatans built and designed their traditional houses to withstand the island’s unpredictable weather. The traditional Ivatan houses called Rakuh are mostly made of wood, limestone, reed and cogon roofs. It’s strong, unique architecture served as protection against typhoons and earthquakes.

A very good example of this is the House of Dakay located in the town of Mahatao. It was constructed in 1887 and is considered as the oldest stone house in Batanes. It is included in the list of UNESCO Heritage Buildings. It was built by Elena Estrella and given to her nephew Jose Dacay, after whom the house was named.

The building has already survived two strong earthquakes, in 1918 and in 2000. I hope that the House of Dakay will still be here for a long time amidst different calamities.