Naga City’s WWII ‘dragon’s teeth’ demolished despite heritage protections
World War II-era 'dragon’s teeth' barriers in Naga City are being demolished as part of a flood control project. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is removing these historic structures despite their protected status under national law. Heritage experts have raised concerns over the lack of consultation before the work began.
The concrete anti-tank barriers, known locally as 'dragon’s teeth,' were constructed by Cebuanos before the Japanese occupation in April 1942. Built under the United States Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE), they served as defensive positions during the war. No public records identify the contractor responsible for their original construction in Barangay Pangan.
The demolition continues despite legal protections and objections from heritage authorities. The loss of these structures removes a tangible link to Cebu’s wartime heritage. Without intervention, more of these historic defences could disappear as infrastructure projects advance.
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