History is anchored deep in the waters of Liloy. On September 7, 1944, during the Shin’yō Maru tragedy, a true hero emerged from the darkness right off our shores.
Father Joseph Verbis Lafleur, an American Catholic chaplain and POW, showed the ultimate form of love and courage. As the ship sank, he selflessly pushed others to safety, choosing to stay in the depths to comfort and pray with the wounded who couldn’t escape. Though decades have passed, the spirit of his ultimate sacrifice continues to echo beautifully along the coastlines of Liloy.
Beyond our pristine beaches and vibrant culture lies a deeply moving piece of world history. Right off the shores of what is today Lamao, Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte, a major event of World War II unfolded. On September 7, 1944, the Shin’yō Maru, a Japanese “Hell Ship” carrying 750 Allied prisoners of war (POWs)—was tragically torpedoed by the U.S. submarine USS Paddle, whose crew was unaware of the prisoners on board. 82 brave POWs managed to escape the sinking vessel and swim ashore directly to Lingkit, Lamao, Liloy. Filipino Guerrillas, led by Colonel Wendell Fertig, immediately came to their rescue, sheltering them in the hills of Maigang, Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte. A Safe Return: In October 1944, the survivors descended back to our coast, where they were safely evacuated by the submarine USS Narwhal. Today, Liloy proudly honors the immense bravery of our local ancestors who risked everything to save these foreign allies on our very shores.
Visit Liloy: Discover the stories, meet the people, and walk the coast where history was made.