Balanga, Bataan: Where Rich History and Natural Wonders Meet

Bataan Province, located close to the Philippine capital of Manila, is a popular vacation spot for those who like to have a quick road trip in the province. It just takes around two to three hours by bus or by private vehicle to reach Bataan from the city.

Day visits from Manila are common because of the area's closeness to the city and the wealth of natural attractions, historical sites, superb resorts and beach resorts, as well as other attractions.

Bataan's Historical Past

Due to its significant part in global history, Bataan has become famous for its historical sites. The Death March, the Siege of Bataan, and the subsequent Fall of Bataan are three of the most well-known events that took place in the province.

The American military suffered one of its worst losses in history during the long siege of Bataan, the first major land engagement of World War II during the Japanese invasion. About 76, 000 Filipino and American soldiers made up the force on Bataan, making it the biggest army under American command to ever surrender during the infamous Bataan Death March.

These days, Bataan is more than just its rich historical sites and culture as the province continues to become a progressive region in economics and tourism.

Best Reasons to Travel in Balanga, Bataan

Bataan is the smallest province in Central Luzon, having a total land area of approximately 1,372.98 square kilometers. But don't let that deceive you as Balanga, Bataan is crammed with fun places to see and enjoy with your whole family and friends.

Because of its unparalleled significance to Philippine history, it is an ideal travel destination for school trips and vacations with the whole family. Bataan's rich history is incentive enough to plan a trip there, but the province's beautiful beaches, many waterfalls, fantastic hotels and beach resorts, delicious local specialties, and plenty of natural attractions further sweeten the deal.

Bataan Tourist Spots that You Must Visit in Balanga, City

Bataan is home to several beautiful sights, including beaches, mountains, and waterfalls. Bataan tourist spot has been more popular as an eco-tourism destination due to the work of local tourists, the Bataan Tourism Center, and government agencies to protect the island's natural nature.

Wondering what to see first when you arrive at the City of Balanga? We've compiled a list of some of the city's most essential attractions for you to explore.

1. The Plaza Hotel

The Plaza Hotel is an architectural landmark in Balanga, and the famed Galleria Victoria Mall can be found right in the middle of this bustling metropolis on the island of Bataan. The city itself is an interesting blend of cutting-edge technology modern and Spanish architecture, and the neighborhood reflects this in its assortment of both old and contemporary buildings.

We recommend that you visit here at night to see the beautiful colorful lights of Balanga City.

2. Balanga's Recreational Spaces

Balanga City, on the Bataan Peninsula, is becoming more well-known for its never-ending development of shopping malls, scenic nature park, and billiard halls in addition to its natural and historical features. Contrary to popular belief, Bataan tourist spots are complete with commercial centers and recreational areas.

To the surprise of most, Balanga City is home to several shopping centers, including the well-known Robinson's Galleria Victoria and Vista Mall, which provide an ideal compromise between city and country living. It was constructed because of the growing need for shopping malls in the province's capital, which is a popular tourist spots to many.

3. Balanga Elementary School Musuem

Balanga Elementary School has been the permanent home of the Bataan World War II Museum since its opening in 2004. The museum honors the brave soldiers who lost their lives battling the Japanese on Bataan in 1942. It gives harrowing specifics of the war, notably the Bataan Death March in which so many Filipino and American troops perished.

Your knowledge of Bataan's long history will be refreshed, and you'll get a new appreciation for its role as a fortress that kept our forefathers safe from the Japanese invaders, all in the space of a single day.

4. Balanga's Local Public Market

It's no secret that Bataan's world-class cuisine contributes to the island's already stellar reputation for beauty. If you're looking for some authentic Bataeño products, Balanga, City is where you need to go.

The uraro-based "Araro Cookies," also called "uraro cookies" in Southern Luzon, are a top export from Bataan. Bataan also produces a high quality smoked and dried seafood. It is at Balanga where the art of smoking milkfish, tilapia, kapak, galunggong, and other fish has reached its pinnacle. With the popularity of tinapa, or smoked fish in the Philippines, you can never go wrong when you buy these as souvenirs.

5. Joseph’s Cathedral Parish

Located in the City of Balanga, the Cathedral Parish of St. Joseph also goes by the names Diocesan Shrine and Balanga Cathedral. The Cathedral, which stands in front of the city square, is not only beautiful but also very significant historically. During the war, the Filipino-American forces utilized this Cathedral as a base to assault Mt. Samat, where they made their final stand.

Other places to visit in Bataan:

• Visit Bataan National Park in Orani, Bataan
• Bataan Technology Park  and Pawikan Conservation Center in Morong, Bataan
• Mt. Samat Shrine of Valor in Pilar, Bataan with a magnificent view of Manila Bay
• Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan
• Laki Beach in Mariveles, Bataan

Bataan Travel Guide

If you're planning a trip to Bataan, you won't have any problem traveling to and from the many tourist destinations in the region. A trip from Manila to Bataan takes around three hours. Sampaloc and Avenida are two of the several bus terminals in Manila, Pasay City, Caloocan City, and Cubao that provide direct service to Bataan such as Genesis, Bataan Transit, Victory Liner, and Sinulog.

A Permanent Home in Oriental Bataan

Enjoy visiting all these historical sites and various tourist attractions any time of the year with an affordable house and lot investment in The Balanga Residences.

Located in Sitio Maluya, Brgy. Cupang, Balanga City, Bataan, our Lumina Homes in Balanga offers the most affordable house and lot for sale in the city. It is also quite accessible as it is only 2 km away from the city center.

This type of house and lot in the Philippines is also great for business and home investment because of its proximity to various landmarks, historical site, national parks, and other tourist sites in the region-- not to mention the complete amenities included in each home package that you will purchase such as Multi Purpose Hall, Guarded Entrance, Mini Gardens & Playgrounds, and Gazebo. You can choose from our townhouse, duplex, and single firewall units.

Hurry and make your home reservations now in this most affordable housing unit from Lumina to maximize your weekend escapade in Bataan with less worry and hassle-free!