Ancient Chinese shipwreck discovered off the Philippines

Manila (CNS) -- A sunken Chinese merchant vessel from the 18th century was discovered by the crew of the National Museum of the Philippines, revealed the Philippine Coast Guard on Saturday.

Only some potsherds were found in the wreck during the February archaeological exploration in the waters by Roxas City in the central part of the country.

The local coastal guard in consultation with the national museum, speculates that objects from the ship could have been carried off by divers, and promised to protect the shipwreck.

Cultural and trade exchanges between China and the Philippines can be traced back to the 14th century. Usually Chinese silk, chinaware, gold, ivory and pearls changed hands for Philippine beewax, cubilose, teakwood and rattan.