mount samat national shrine - dambana ng kagitingan

I went here last April 2012. The way up to the mountain is so so interesting. It's like you're being chased while passing the high, zigzag roads. Bataan is such a lovely province for me. Very peaceful, and their roads even if it's classified as a province are all developed and easy to access (because in the Philippines, even in the cities, not all roads are smooth or developed). Smooth roads are very prominent in this part of Bataan, even the ones that lead you to their beaches. There are statues which I usually see on Japanese settings which you'll twist to open a hidden passage to another world. The place is very clean, and as a proud Filipino, I witnessed the historical event of the Death March by looking at the memorabilia and the images in the museum. The fee to the museum is so cheap, but the things you'll see are so vintage and for me, they are all well- preserved and such a priceless part of our history. The government of Bataan plays a great role in preserving the place. I wasn't able to ride the elevator and reach the top of the cross, but I was able to walk the beautiful landscape architecture of the stairs going to the Legendary Cross. The photos I gathered during the trip are all beautiful. I was even able to oversee a big part of Luzon from where I am standing. The place is quiet, and the architecture of the Dambana ng Kagitingan is a work of art, history, heroism and sacrifice. I think it's a gorgeous place that the Philippines should be very proud of.

A stop at Mount Samat was automatically included in the itinerary once it was decided that we were going on a Bataan road trip.We headed north from Metro Manila before dawn on Dec 21, a Sun. After a quick breakfast at NLEX Shell Select (Balagtas) and about 2 1/2 hours later, we spotted the Mount Samat cross from afar. Soon we made a left turn at the green “Welcome - Mt. Samat National Shrine” sign, went past the “Dambana ng Kagitingan” (Shrine of Valour) entrance arch and after 10 mins up the winding road, we stopped at the security gatehouse to pay for admission (P20 per person) and parking (P20 per vehicle). With our museum tickets (included in admission fee) in hand, we then proceeded to park at the bottom of the steps leading up to the memorial colonnade. From the steps, the monument was an impressive sight. We took several photo stops as we ascended to the colonnade for a quick look-see and then we climbed up the zigzag footpath to reach the base of the huge cross. As we got nearer, I noticed the cross’ base was not white like the rest of the structure. It was actually covered with slabs and relief sculptures of historical figures and events. Walking around it, I saw a crumbled portion that was cordoned off.Next we took the elevator (P10 per person) to the viewing gallery at the cross’ arms. I cannot imagine how they managed to squeeze our party of 8 into that tiny space but they sure did. Make that 9 people to include the elevator operator who also tried to sell souvenir books to us as we rode up.The cramped ride was rewarded with a panoramic view of Bataan thanks to a continuous row of windows on each side as well as 2 portholes on either end of the cross’ arms. It was very windy up here. We sat for awhile (lots of seating here, could seat maybe 25 per arm) to admire the view and enjoy the strong breeze. Before long we were at the portholes, the ideal spot for that “We’re up here!” pic. At the war museum, we gave our tickets to the security guard who promptly informed us about the ‘No Photography” rule. We descended down the spiral staircase to the dimly lit main room where we got a refresher course on Philippine WWII history. There were framed displays of pictures, uniforms, war missives… weapons such as rocket launchers, rifles, bayonets… complete with narratives and timelines. In the centre of the room was a terrain model of Bataan peninsula identifying the location of Filipino and American forces (in blue) and Japanese military (in red dots) during the Battle of Bataan. We stayed for 2 hrs before continuing our road trip. This historical landmark is surely a must-see for anyone visiting Bataan. Highly recommended!

a long and winding road :) the drive was all worth it.. out of plan, we just decided to have a road trip and when we saw the cross from a vast distance, alas! we tripped and there we were!! worth the gas, the sweat and the thirst!!

This place is close to my heart. Some family members are veterans and active military. What an amazing place! Be prepared to walk for 2-hours on this steep incline, if you don't have a private vehicle to take you up to the top.

Excellent place to visit,steeped in history and a very interesting place to go,wonderfull views from the cross.

As a Pilarian looking up to Mt. Samat everyday never cease to amaze me. It's so nice to hike in the morning where the air is cold and fog is everywhere. :) Hiking for 1 1/2 hours is so worth it when you reach the top of the cross. :)

We went there after a storm so we didn't have the opportunity to go inside the cross due to lack of electricity. It was still worth it though, the view was breath taking!

I want to first point out that I believe Mt Samat is a five star attraction for Bataan and the Philippines as a whole. However, until some items are addressed, I am giving it a 1 Star Rating and my reasons will be listed at the bottom of my review.I have been to Mt Samat numerous times over the years starting in 2005, and have taken numerous Active Duty military, retired military and friends to this location. Nine out of ten times most folks I have taken are apprehensive about how far away it is (most trips are via motorcycle, though I have also been known to take a van if there is a large number of people). However, ten out of ten will agree that upon reaching the site they are very pleased with what they see, afforded the opportunity of riding the elevator in the cross, up to the crosses arms where they will be greeted with a fantastic view of the Bataan peninsula. And, on a clear and sunny day will get a birds eye look at Corregidor Island.The artwork on the cross also always amazes, the park surrounding the cross is pleasant enough to relax and chat while waiting for everyone to take in the sites (some folks even have family picnics...for some reason many seem to have a problem using the provided trash cans?). Directly down below the cross there is a Colonnade that has historical depictions, various USAFFE insignias, some crew served weapons on display and there is a small museum (beneath the Colonnade) which also has numerous weapons on display (handguns, rifles, swords, knifes, machetes and some more crew served weapons), a diorama of Bataan peninsula and numerous military "knick knacks". Adjacent to the Colonnade is decent bathroom facilities (and if you've been to PI longer than a day, you are most likely bringing your own Tissue Paper, which is a good thing). ***Note*** For whatever reason, photography is not allowed and that somewhat dampens the museum visit. Also, you will be asked (told) to purchase a ticket at the entrance to the museum and they will leave that tidbit out until you actually enter the museum entrance. Ok, so why the low rating when 99% of my visits were of 5 star quality.Imagine traveling from Manila to Bataan after spending the night at Corregidor Island. Now, the trip is focused on the Mt Samat visit with the 00km Death March Marker and small memorial site in Mariveles as a check the box only (will one day write a review about this location). You make it to your destination (the top of the mountain) only to be told that there is no power so you cannot go up into the arms of the cross (which is the main attraction) and your visit to the museum will be extra dismal as you will be viewing it via your cell phone light (have fun with that). So, Department of Tourism... there is no link or website for this attraction. No way of knowing that your day spent traveling in a van (or worse, a motorbike) will be wasted all due to no power. Now, let's say if there would have been something (a sign perhaps with a no kidding working/staffed phone number) at the bottom of the mountain stating that power is off and the cross elevator is not operational, we most likely would have traveled directly to Mariveles and skipped this site. Or, maybe the staff that operate and/or maintain this Historical Tourist Destination can field a working solution. Either way, you want to bring local and out of country tourists to the Bataan peninsula, then step up your "A" game and put a little effort into making this worth the trip.

It was December 2013 when my group and I went to visit the Shrine of Valor in Mt. Samat. We were welcomed by the breathtakingly beautiful view of Bataan and the huge Cross monument that towers above everything and everyone.Even at lunchtime there were still lots of people hanging around taking pictures and climbing the cobble-stone steps up to the Cross. That really wouldn't bother you at all because here you have a lot of space for you and your own groups. Also, the air here is amazing! If I would describe it more, it is as if it's cold, light and sweet.We used the Comfort Rooms here and they were well maintained and all. Sadly, the only place were you can buy food (if you hadn't brought some) and drinks in this area is there at the top of the monument. So, be sure you've had food and water with you before you make this trip.I recommend going to this place as a side trip before going to other places in Bataan. Don't go climb the steps if you're legs are weak and your feet is tired from walking. The stairs are kinda steep so safety first people. You may not be able to enjoy the rest of the climb up to the Cross.During our visit the elevator going up to the tip of the Cross was under maintenance. We were not able to check this out, but still the view at the foot of the Cross is just as awesome.

Going to the dambana ng kagitingan from nlex you can take sctex exit to morong bataan, dinalupihan exit or san fernando exit in nlex. it is about 30 mins away from las casas filipinas de acuzar and the km 00 of the death march (24 kms.)be prepared for a zigzag steep road going on top of mount samat.There is an entrance fee of P20 per person and P20 parking fee.in the area there is a museum, bathroom. In the big cross there is an available elevator so you can go on top for great view of bataan and manila bay but you have to wait for atleast an hour for the elevator line since it can only accomodate 10 persons per trip for a fee of P10 There are available store to buy softdrinks for P15 and souvenirs

The road leading to Mt.Samat is quite steep and winding but it will just take around 30minutes up there. As soon as we reached the top, wow, its breathtaking! Seeing Bataan peninsula and the sea and the main agenda- The Cross monument created with a historical heroism to tell. The entrance fee is minimal that will support the maintenance cost of the place.There is a museum also located at the basement. Some battle canyons were displayed and preserved as well for some opicture takings. There a re souvenir shops and food stalls as well.

Elevator is not available from 12nn to 1pm for guard's lunch break.The dare is you walk from the entrance (from the Hway) til you reach the cross by just walking or maybe from the museum, use the stairs til you reach the cross.Near Mt. Samat, theres a zipline (400.00) and you will end up in Dunsulan Falls. From Dunsulan, try the Tree Hopping Adventure (250 to 300.00), if package adventure- 600.00

You feel like you’re lost and in the middle of nowhere as you go up about 6 kilometers of a zigzagging, sometimes very steep, road. But once you reach the top, you will be surely be awed by the magnificent cross-shaped monument, a tribute to the gallant, outnumbered and outgunned defenders of the country during World War II. The museum is also something to gush about – an impressive accumulation of weapons of war (both light and heavy), uniforms, pictures and assorted memorabilia. There is a relief map of the province where you can get an idea of how the battles in Bataan were fought. Finally, you cannot help but appreciate the fantastic panoramic view all around amidst the cool and fresh mountain air. All for an entrance fee of 20 Pesos! I can't help but wonder why this destination is not being hyped up by the province's tourism officials. You shouldn't miss this when you go to Bataan.

This was my first time coming here. I had never heard of this place. My nephew suggested that we go instead of Ft. Bonifacio. After the visit, I told him good call. It was truly worth it. I just wish they eould allow photography in the gallery. I Understand because of the photos, will degrade. Overall, great visit.

This year, I and some of my co-workers experienced visiting a historic place where our forefathers shed their blood to give us freedom. This is the mountain in Balanga City called Mt. Samat, where the Shrine of Valor or in tagalog "Dambana ng Kagitingan" is situated. On our first day, we went to the Government Arsenal in Lamao, Limay, Bataan for an official business, then the following day, after eating our breakfast, we headed to Balanga public market to buy a lot of smoked and dried fish for our personal consumption and also as "pasalubong". And then, we drove onto the top of Mt. Samat and we're able to experience seeing the big cross/monument. The place was truly amazing, the view from the top is breath-taking. I really appreciated the place and had learned or maybe refreshed my mind about the war that went on. The pictures showed to me vividly how hard it is, if a war is going on in your country. And you came to realize what heroic acts were done by the Filipino and American soliders during those hard times. The artistic and informative sides were all presented in one area. Unfortunetely, we we're not able to get on top of the sacred cross because the elevator was out of order and not avaialble. I wish next time I visit this place, I will be with my family so they can also experience a great feeling, being in a historic area!