A bill seeking to declare the historic Balete Pass in Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya as a national shrine is now awaiting the signature of President Benigno Aquino III.
Deputy Speaker and Nueva Vizcaya Lone District Rep. Carlos Padilla, principal author of the bill, said the Balete Pass symbolizes the gallant stand of Filipino soldiers and guerrilla fighters, together with the 25th Infantry Division of the United States Armed Forces of the Far East, against the Japanese forces during World War II.
The House of Representatives has transmitted to the Senate for action House Bill 844, embodying the proposal, as early as Oct. 20, 2014. The Senate approved the transmitted HB 844 without amendments on Feb. 2, 2016 before the congressional adjournment.
“This fierce battle drove the Japanese Army back to the north of Luzon,” said Padilla.
By virtue of Proclamation No. 653, Padilla said the Battle of Balete Pass is annually commemorated from May 10 to 13.
“This important part of our recent history is symbolized by the Balete Pass Monument which stands as a landmark when entering the Cagayan Valley through Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya. It is therefore fitting to declare the place as a national shrine as a tribute to gallant Filipinos and Americans who staked their lives in honor of freedom,” said Padilla.
The Balete Pass is in Barangay Tactac, Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya and has an area of about 557,789 square meters.
The administration and maintenance of the Balete Pass National Shrine shall be under the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office.
