Rising atop Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan, the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) stands as a solemn tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II.
This historic landmark not only commemorates their gallant stand from January to April 1942 but also symbolizes the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom.
The shrine was commissioned in 1967 by then-President Ferdinand Marcos as part of the 25th-anniversary commemoration of World War II. It sits on a 73,665-hectare park that bore witness to some of the fiercest battles between Allied forces and the Japanese Imperial Army. Despite heavy losses across Luzon, Filipino and American troops made their final stand in Bataan.
Their efforts culminated in the infamous Bataan Death March after their surrender, where thousands endured unimaginable suffering.
Nevertheless, the indomitable spirit of the soldiers persisted, inspiring resistance movements that ultimately led to the liberation of the Philippines. Every April 9, the nation celebrates “Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor)” to honor this legacy of heroism.
A central feature of the shrine is the imposing Memorial Cross, one of the tallest in the world. Standing 95 meters high at 555 meters above sea level, the cross is a marvel of steel and reinforced concrete. Its arms stretch 30 meters wide, with a viewing gallery accessible via elevator or staircase, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Completed in 1970, the cross serves as a beacon of remembrance, its illuminated presence visible even across Manila Bay.
In recent years, efforts to enhance the site have gained momentum. Under the administration of President Marcos Jr., the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) initiated projects to upgrade the shrine’s facilities, including aesthetic lighting for the Memorial Cross and colonnade.
Completed in May 2023, the lighting project aimed to increase tourist interest and revitalize the site’s nighttime operations after the pandemic.
The upgrades also include a linear lighting system, improved pathways, and a state-of-the-art underground museum featuring augmented reality exhibits. These developments align with the Comprehensive Tourism Master Plan (CTMP) and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, showcasing a unified effort among national and local stakeholders.