Provinces: 1. Aurora “Sanctuary Of Nature's Splendor” - Baler 2. Bataan “History Hub of Central Luzon” - Balanga 3. Bulacan “Land of Heroes” - Malolos 4. Nueva Ecija “Rice Bowl of the Philippines” - Palayan 5. Pampanga “Culinary Center of the Philippines” - San Fernando 6. Tarlac “Melting Pot of Central Luzon” - Tarlac City 7. Zambales “Wreck Diving Capital of the Philippines” - Iba
BATAAN
DAMBANA NG KAGITINGAN
Also called the “Shrine of Valor”, this structure consists of a giant cross on top of Mt. Samat, in an area now declared a national park. It symbolizes the bravery of the Fil-American soldiers who fought against the Japanese forces during WWII.
FALL OF BATAAN MARKER
A very important event in the country’s history commemorates this marker. It was also built to honor the Filipino soldiers, both living and dead, who valiantly fought against the Japanese invaders.
MT. SAMAT
The scene of the most heroic defensive battle during WWII, in which Fil-American forces were defeated by the Japanese.
FESTIVALS
PAWIKAN FESTIVAL
Many tourists go to this sanctuary during the nesting season and especially during the Pawikan Festival to be able to get a chance to see turtles come up to shore at night to lay their eggs. During the Pawikan Festival, tourists are even able to "adopt a turtle" and personally hold and release a baby turtle into the sea.
BULACAN
BARASOAIN CHURCH
This church is considered one of the leading historical spots in the Philippines. It was the seat of the short-lived Philippine Republic and the site of the Malolos Congress in 1898.
BIAK NA BATO
This huge split boulder was the mountain hideout if the revolutionary forces during the Spanish period and the place where Malolos Constitution was signed.
CASA REAL
This building was a printing press during the Malolos Republic and was converted into a municipal library. Now it is a museum that houses various