Destinations
Bataan Road Trip, Stop One
Bataan is only about 160 kilometres from Manila, and it takes around three hours to drive there. Mt. Samat National Shrine, also known as the Dambana ng Kagitingan, sits on the slopes of Mount Samat in Pilar and makes a good first stop. On the way in I could see Mount Pinatubo off in the distance, although I am not sure which peak was which.
The Shrine
The walls carry inscriptions about the history of the Second World War, when Bataan was an integral part of the defence of the Philippines and of the entire Pacific. A lot of people lost their lives here, so it is worth slowing down and reading them.
The Cross
A huge cross stands at the top of the mountain. You can walk up the steps, which is just over 100 steps and about a 10 minute climb, or you can be a little lazy like I was and drive right to the top. There is also an elevator inside the cross that takes you up to the viewing level. When I was there it had a bit of a queue, so I skipped it. You still get a good idea of the views from the base, out over Manila Bay, although the glare was strong early in the morning.
Dezza’s Tip
Go early, before the heat and the glare. Dansulan Falls is only a 10 to 15 minute drive away, so do the two together.
Where Is Mt. Samat National Shrine, Bataan?
