There are a lot of things that make Philippine travel destinations appealing – not only are they unique and charming, but they are often so deeply engraved in the culture and history of the country that they take on and imbibe a sense of connection with the past and with the entire nation.
Take Bataan as an example. Blooming today as a top tourist destination in the Philippines, the place is surrounded with a very rich history. In fact, even the tourist spots in the area offer a glimpse of the true Filipino spirit. Check out the following:
Balanga Wetland and Nature Park
This is one of the newest destinations in Bataan, and it is the country’s first wetland and nature park. This park is primarily aimed at being the top information resource about the various migratory birds visiting Bataan throughout the year. The area has a view deck where visitors can stay to check birds coming in from the ocean. Symbolizing the Filipinos’ growing concern for the environment and for its preservation, this park is continuously undergoing improvements.
Pawikan Conservation Center
Another witness to the Filipinos’ love of Mother Earth is the Pawikan Conservation Center in Morong, Bataan. Pawikan or marine turtles are coming into extinction, and concerned citizens have formed groups to help in the conservation of these sea creatures. When you visit the center, you can see grown pawikans, their young, and eggs up close. Injured pawikans are rescued and treated in the center, while the eggs are gathered to protect them until they hatch. If you happen to visit in November, you can attend the Pawikan Festival and witness the release of hatched pawikans back to the sea.
Kanawan Hanging Bridge
Traversing this footbridge is one exciting venture in itself, a representation of the Filipino spirit for adventure – what with it hanging amidst thick greens and lush trees. The view is simply breathtaking. But, that’s not all. This bridge also leads to an Aeta community, a community of Philippine natives. It also leads to mountains and waterfalls that you can enjoy, although you need to prepare to trek before you can reach these.
Shrine of Valor (Mt. Samat)
This shrine has been built in Mt. Samat in 1966 to commemorate the soldiers who fought during the World War II. Atop the mountain is the huge 93-meter high cross made of marble, steel, and concrete. The arms of the cross are actually viewing decks, and you can climb to the area through an elevator. At the shrine, you will also find a museum – it’s probably one of the most informative resources of Bataan and the role that it played in Philippine history during WWII.
St. Joseph Parish Church
This church is one of the most visited churches in Bataan. Found in the city of Balanga, it stands proud as a symbol of the Filipinos’ god-fearing spirit. Not only that, but it also played a significant role in the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during the World War II. Back then, the church served as the point of artillery bombardment of the Filipinos and Americans in Mt. Samat, by the Japanese.
There are a lot more places to visit in Bataan, each place offering its own kind of adventure and showing a glimpse of the true Filipino spirit. There are arranged tours in Bataan, or you can also go there with the help of a travel agency specializing in the Philippines or on your own.
Visit the official website of Bataan Province at http://www.bataan.gov.ph