Just a few hours’ drive away from Manila lies the province of Bataan, a place brimming with history and natural beauty.   Whether you’re a history nerd, a beach lover, or just someone who needs to get away from it all, Bataan has something to offer. Allow us to give you three good reasons to include this captivating province as part of your travel bucket list.  

Bataan is rich in history

Considered as the Philippines’ final frontier against the incoming Japanese invasion during World War II, Bataan is filled with significant historical markers for all to remember our nation’s past.   Many might recall stories from relatives that had lived through the horrors of World War II about Bataan infamously being the starting place for the Bataan Death March, during which up to 75,000 Filipino and American troops marched 105 kilometers, from Mariveles to San Fernando, Pampanga. Even more heartwrenching was the number of soldiers, who perished from the march, due to the harsh treatment of the Japanese Imperial Army. The death told had been estimated to have reached over 18,000. A HARROWING JOURNEY The Bataan Death March had up to 75,000 Filipino and American troops march over 105 kilometers, from Mariveles to San Fernando, Pampanga
To remember these brave men, consider visiting the Mount Samat National Shrine, also referred to as the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor), near the summit of Mt. Samat in Pilar, Bataan. It’s hard to miss the Memorial Cross, which serves as a marker, standing at around 95 meters and considered the second tallest cross in the world. Visiting the place feels solemn, with it standing as a reminder of the valiant efforts of the men and women whose lives were taken to let us enjoy the peace we have today. NEVER FORGET The Memorial Cross at the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) on Mt. Samat stands a reminder of the valiant efforts of the men and women whose lives were taken during World War II (Photo: National Historical Commission of the Philippines)    

Bataan is a treasure trove

 

of hidden eats

When on a trip, an essential part of it is finding food along the way. Bagnet in itself is already a hearty meal. The crispy pork belly enough to fill your appetite. Still, a simple carinderia in Morong has perfected a culinary twist to the classic Ilocos region dish with its bagnet sisig. While Andra’s Lutong Bahay at Ihaw-Ihaw can be easily overlooked among the many other local eateries along the street offering other grilled meals, it’s hard to resist the enticing slab of pork put on display for all to see.  A HEART-STOPPING TREAT Andra's Lutong Bahay at Ihaw-Ihaw has perfected a culinary twist to the classic Ilocos region dish with its bagnet sisig
Andra’s bagnet sisig is generous with its serving, making sure to add just the right amount of onions and chili so as to not overpower the juicy flavors of the bagnet. Andra’s is also perfect on a tight budget. The bagnet sisig dish will cost you only ₱100. If bagnet isn’t to your taste, Andra’s also offers a variety of vegetable dishes and pork specialties.  

Bataan is a beach

lover’s paradise

Further away into Mariveles, after driving through zig-zag roads and gorgeous mountainside views, paradise lies only one boat ride away to Laki Beach and Five Fingers. NO SIGNAL, NO PROBLEM Laki Beach and Five Fingers is the perfect digital detox destination, with many coves and cliffs to explore

Laki Beach and Five Fingers is named such due to the island formation resembling five fingers sticking out. Being so far out, there is no cellphone signal or Wi-Fi to connect to, making it the perfect digital detox destination. There are nearby coves and cliffs to explore, one of which is dedicated to daredevils who can jump off a high point into the water. Those who wish to have an overnight stay can rent tents to soak up the camping vibe. Come nighttime, don’t forget to look to the skies and lose yourself in the marvelous view of the stars.