Discover the magic with this amazing historical and cultural region, only an hour by ferryboat across the bay from Manila. Until recently not a traditional tourist destination, this province is now proving to be a tourist haven with many exciting places to visit, and a lot of interesting things to do. There is so much to offer in Bataan, culture, beauty, history, in spoilt beaches and a warm hospitality that is truly Filipino.
Bataan was established in 1754 by Governor General Pedro Manuel Arandia out of territories belonging to Pampanga and the corregimiento of Mariveles, which at the time, included Maragondon in Cavite across the bay. The province had more than its share of significant historical events. In 1647, Dutch Naval Forces attempting to invade the country perpetrated the Abucay massacre in one of its towns. In the late 1700s, the dreaded Chinese private Limahong used Lusong Point on the western sides as the landing place to launch his conquest of Luzon. In the Philippine Revolution of 1896, Bataan joined the other provinces in Luzon, which revolted against Spanish rule.It was during World War II, however that Bataan attained prominence that would find its place in the annals of world history. Under heavy aircraft and artillery shelling from the invading Japanese forces, the beleaguered Filipino – American troops valiantly defended this last bastion until the “Fall of Bataan” on April 9, 1942.
Bataan Day Celebration, Pawikan Festival, Banga Festival of Balanga City, Kuraldal Festival of Municipality of Dinalupihan, Senakulo of Municipality of Samal Palis, Lasa Festival of Municipality of Abucay, Pagbubunyi Festival of Municipality of Limay, and Alimango Sugpo Festival of Municipality of Orani
Mt. Samat National Shrine Also called Dambana ng Kagitingan, the historical shrine located in the town of Pilar was built to honor the gallantry of Filipino and American soldiers who fought during World War II. It features the touted world’s second tallest cross with a height of 92 meters (302 ft.)
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar It is an open-air museum and heritage park in Bagac town which showcases old houses that were dismantled brick by brick from their original locations across the country and reassembled in the same order inside the park. Spread over 400 hectares, the park features a collection of 27 Spanish colonial buildings and stone houses which resemble an old Philippine setting.
Beaches The towns of Morong, Bagac, and Mariveles are home to various pristine beach resorts that are just a few hours’ drive away from Metro Manila.
Bataan World War II Museum.
Balanga Nature and Wetland Park.
