Balangay replicas back from China, Thailand

Three replicas of the ‘balangay’ boat returned to Philippines on Tuesday after a three-month journey to China and Thailand.

The balangay or "Butuan boat" is known as the oldest pre-Hispanic watercraft found in the Philippines.

According to a report on State of the Nation with Jessica Soho, the boats disembarked from Ilocos last April 28 and set sail for Xiamen, China before heading to Bangkok in Thailand.

On Tuesday, the boats that carried 34 crew members made it back safely and docked at the Manila Yacht Club.

The expedition as a tribute to the Philippine’s friendship with China and Southeast Asian neighbors.

The dry season allowed a sound voyage over calm seas. — Margaret Claire Layug/ BAP, GMA News