Bataan’s Pride: Dambana ng Kagitingan

Bataan is undoubtedly a province filled with so much history and Mount Samat National Shrine or “Dambana ng Kagitingan” is one of Bataan’s glorious historical sites.

Behind from the allure and breath-taking views are historical remarks this place offers. 

It was built to honor and remember the heroic struggle and sacrifices of those who fought and died fighting for freedom during World War II.

It is a shrine located near the summit of Mt. Samat in the town of Pilar, Bataan. From the main road, it will take 15-20 minutes to reach the entrance which is around 7km.

It is located in Brgy. Diwa, Pilar, Bataan. From my hometown, Orani Bataan, Mt. Samat is just an hour away or less via Roman Highway.

It was my second time to visit Mt. Samat and I can’t even remember my first time since I was just in my 1^st grade back then.

As I remember from our lesson in Makabayan during elementary, the memorial shrine complex was started with the laying of the cornerstone by President Marcos on April 14, 1966.

The Colonnade

A wide series of steps that narrows to the top will lead visitors towards the flagpole that holds the flag of the Philippines.

Set your eyes on a panoramic view of Bataan at the Colonnade.

At the center of the Colonnade is the altar wherein religious glass murals can be found behind.

A narrative of the “Battle of Bataan” engraved in marble on the two lateral walls.

There is also a war museum in the shrine complex featuring wide collections from paintings to armors used by the Filipino, American and Japanese forces during the battle. But taking pictures inside was strictly prohibited.

Outside the Memorial Cross

The Memorial Cross is 555 meters above sea level towering structure at the highest point of Mount Samat.

The exterior of the Cross is finished with chipped granolithic marble.

Found at the exterior part of Memorial Cross are depicting important historical figures and events like the execution of Jose Rizal, Lapu-Lapu and Antonio Luna.

One can choose either to ride the elevator or use the stairs (roughly 470 steps according to the elevator boy) to reach the top of the cross. However, there is only one available elevator with a capacity of 4-6 people. 

The elevator is quite old, but according to the elevator boy, “malapit na pong ipagawa ‘tong elevator, papalakihan po at babaguhin kasi natatakot na rin po yung mga ibang sumasakay kasi karag-karag na.”

Of course, I made the rational decision to ride the elevator.

After around 8-minutes elevator ride, you’ll be welcomed by the cool breeze and foggy setting.

It was around 10 am in the morning so the setting is just so serene and a little bit foggy.

Visiting Dambana ng Kagitingan won’t be complete without picture taking with its iconic window inside.

Outlook of the parking from the top

  

Dambana ng Kagitingan, a perfect place to recall our notable past.