The Shrine of Valor or Dambana ng Kagitingan was built on the summit of Mt. Samat because of its huge contribution in Philippine history during World War II. Also, the province of Bataan holds the record of Battle of Bataan including the controversial Death March. Anyways, from Bagac, we traveled to Pilar to discover and to know more about the significance of the Cross on top of the mountain. CLICK TO WATCH MY VLOGS
MT. SAMAT - History, Guide, and Things you need to know.
THE HISTORY: The cross erected on the summit, the memorial shrine and the museum were built to honor the gallantry of the Filipino American soldiers who fought during World War 2. The shrine complex includes a war museum with different memorabilia, paintings, and weapons used by the Filipino, American and Japanese forces during the Battle of Bataan. These structures were commissioned by former President Ferdinand Marcos in 1966 for the 25th Anniversary of the World War 2.
The gigantic cross stands 92 meters from its base and is considered as the second tallest cross in the world. A viewing deck in the arm of the cross is available via an elevator. At the base, the external part of the cross has gorgeous sculptures by Abueva titled "Nabiag Na Bato" showing the important events of Jose Rizal, Lapu-lapu, and Antonio Luna.
In the viewing gallery, there's an amazing view of the province of Bataan, Corregidor island, Manila bay and the mountain ranges surrounding the province, like Mt. Tarak. Stores and souvenir shops are available at the summit.
HOW TO GET HERE: From Manila to Bataan, we rode in a Genesis Bus to Balanga Central terminal. Then, took in a jeepney to Cabog-Cabog and alighted at Mt. Samat Jump-off point and walked.
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