Whenever the words North of the Philippines are mentioned, most people think of Baguio City – one of the most visited places in the Philippines. However, before you even reach this place (2 hours after leaving Manila to be exact), did you know that there’s a fun place you need to visit first? Introducing to you, this region called Central Luzon.
Capas, Tarlac is home to historical landmark in the Philippines
Heading north when on a vacation in the Philippines is always a good idea. When riding via a private vehicle, there are lots of things to do and places to visit along the way. Take for example the Capas National Shrine in this Barrio called Navy, in the town of Capas, Tarlac.
The Capas National Shrine and how to get there. Tarlac by the way is the province located right smack in the middle of Manila and Baguio. It’s the halfway mark so once you’ve reached the province, you’re sure to be only an hour or so away from your destination.
Capas town is along the MacArthur National Highway and you won’t miss the shrine as long as you focus on your left. Once there, you can park your vehicle and enjoy the peaceful and serene sights found in this place.
The park cum shrine is a tribute by the Philippine government to those US and Filipino soldiers who died in the place at the end of the highly notorious event in World History, the Bataan Death March. Each year around April, people pay respect to this place in commemoration of “Araw ng Kagitingan” and to honor the brave souls who gave up their lives to fight Japanese rule in WWII.
Visit Capas, Tarlac when in the Philippines then go for Mt. Pinatubo trek
Today, the park – all 54 hectares of it – is a tourist attraction with its rows and rows of trees and well-maintained grass and lush vegetation with a backdrop of the famous mountain ranges of Luzon. It is also home to the 70-ft obelisk built to mark the place and its place in History, and a marble wall where the names of those who died in the place are engraved.
What to do in the park. Over-all, it is a place where kids can run and roam around unsupervised and where adults can have peace and tranquillity while being one with nature. You may arrange for a picnic or a quick lunch.
Negotiate with the uniformed personnel at the gate and/or the main office where you need to register before entering the grounds.
Everything here is free, except that out of respect, it would be nice to drop in a few peso bills in the donation box before you leave. Spend an hour or so in this place and be revitalized prior to continuing your journey to the north.