Mt Samat, Bataan

I never knew that the cross in Mount Samat was very huge unless I have seen it personally. This cross is considered as a tourist spot here in Pilar, Bataan because of its historical value and was built as a war memorial of the American and Japanese occupation.

Be sure that when you go here, your car is not overloaded because the road going up here is too steep and keep an eye on the surrounding trees, you might see monkeys and other rare species of birds.

We arrived here around 11:00 AM and because it is a government property, there was an entrance fee of PHP 20 each adult and PHP 10 for children who are not yet studying, i still don't know why it matters here.

This place is often visited by the Philippine presidents during the Bataan Day and even on Independence Day.

There's a museum located below this hall. Where you could see some paintings, memorabilias, weapons, clothes and other historical artifacts that was used during those times. Souvenir shirts and items are also available there.

Several presidents also rehabilitated this place to preserve its importance and historical value to the country. Upon entering the base of the cross, you will be asked to pay PHP 10 for the use of the elevator going up the center of the cross. Be sure to be you are not going here between 12NN and 1:00 PM because the guards have their lunch breaks during those times and the elevator needs to be on rest at least an hour. The elevator was already old and too narrow.

When we reached the center of the cross, it was very cold. It was like air conditioned but it was indeed the fresh air coming from the outside. It was a very good place to relax and unwind. It was not the top of the cross yet and you could reach the top by talking the stairs but it's already prohibited to the public.

The view from the cross was spectacular. I think they could put up a bungee jumping there because of its heights. c",)