Hiking at Mount Samat & Shrine of Valor

When it comes to the most popular weekend getaway in Bataan, a visit to Mount Samat is a must. Commuting from Balanga city, one can hop on the jeepney heading to Bagac at Balanga terminal and simply tell the driver “Mount Samat”. In 20 minutes’ time, you will be at the jumpoff point.

At the foot of the Memorial Cross 

Bataan Bus Terminal

From the starting point, it is a 6km distance to the top of Mount Samat. Most visitors will usually have their private vehicle or hire a tricycle at foot of the hill. Online sources had it said that a single trip usually cost 100 PHP per pax and higher, with minimum of two passengers required for each trip. There were also some real good cyclists in the lovely morning.

En route

The well conditioned road.

After an hour and 15 minutes of walking, I am at the summit and greeted by the 92-metre high Shrine of Valor. Better known as the Dambana ng Kagitingan, the Memorial Cross was erected in year 1966 in memory of the Filipino and American soldiers who have fought and sacrificed themselves during World War II.

Entrance ticket for Domestic tourist.

Atop the Mount Samat is a spacious area where you can find a museum, an esplanade, few souvenir kiosks and gazebos. It’s time to get some rest in the gazebo while having my Del Monte Pineapple drink and biscuits.

The Esplanade

It was a good weekend spent at the Bataan, with offerings of morning sun, gentle breeze and sweats.

A PERFECT weekend escape