MANILA - A World War II tank was discovered in Manila Bay during dredging operations over the weekend.

Authorities said the Sherman M4A1 tank was discovered just two kilometers away from the Philippine Coast Guard headquarters at the Manila South Harbor. Engineer Jojo Garcia said a crane being used in dredging operations unearthed the tank Saturday morning.

Coast Guard spokesman Lt. Senior Grade Arman Balilo said it was not the first time that World War II relics have been discovered in Manila Bay. He said a 105-mm gun that had Japanese inscriptions was discovered in the bay last July 25.

"This may be proof that there are sunken warships in the area," he said.

He said the tank will be brought to Coast Guard headquarters where it will be displayed.

The dredging operations are part of the "Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig" multi-sectoral project, which is headed by ABS-CBN Foundation.