Capas National Shrine
The Capas National Shrine, located in Capas, Tarlac, Philippines, is a solemn memorial dedicated to honoring the Filipino and American soldiers who endured the Bataan Death March during World War II. The site marks the endpoint of the grueling 97-kilometer march from Bataan to Tarlac, where thousands of soldiers, weakened by starvation and dehydration, were held in harsh captivity.
The shrine features a towering 70-meter obelisk surrounded by a peaceful park with rows of trees symbolizing the fallen soldiers. The names of the Filipino and American troops who perished are engraved on black marble, serving as a reminder of their courage and sacrifice. Visitors can explore the grounds and reflect at various monuments, including a wall engraved with the history of the Bataan Death March and a small museum displaying wartime memorabilia. The Capas National Shrine stands as a powerful tribute to resilience, patriotism, and the enduring strength of those who fought for freedom, inspiring a deep sense of history and national pride.