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Part I

Perhaps, the most famous landmark in Bataan is the towering memorial cross on Mount Samat. It is more than 90 meters high and it is the landmark structure of the Dambana ng Kagitingan or Shrine of Valor. The cross serves as a powerful reminder of the heroism of Filipinos and Americans who gallantly defended the Philippines against the invading imperial Japanese army during World War II. It is recorded in history as the famous last stand before the Philippines fell into the hands of the invading Japanese forces.

After the fall came the infamous Death March in which the defeated Filipinos and Americans were forced to walked from Bataan to San Fernando, Pampanga. Many died along the way. It was during this period of defeat and humiliation when General Douglas MacArthur retreated to Australia and made his now famous last word, “I shall return.”

Today, the three countries that were involved in the bloody battles of  World War II – the Philippines, Japan and the United States of America – have friendly diplomatic ties and are united for democracy.

Additional Information

1. The shrine has a museum which houses materials relevant to the events that happened from 1942 to 1945.

2. There is a footpath that leads all the way up to the memorial cross. 

3. Many art works can be seen in the shrine.

4. From Metro Manila, the shrine can be reached by Genesis bus. Go down in Balanga, Bataan. There are jeepney rides that ply the national road and will take the visitors to the foot of Mount Samat (Mount Samat Road along Governor J.J. Linao National Road). Furthermore, the Genesis bus corporation provides services for educational trips and group tours.

Photo Gallery of the Memorial Cross of the Dambana ng Kagitingan or Shrine of Valor

Dambana ng Kagitingan - Shrine of Valor: Part I, Part II and Part III

Related Article(s):  Philippine Places 2014-2016  

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