Regional/Cultural Day
Araw ng Kagitingan
The anniversary of the 1942 fall of Bataan, when Filipino and American forces surrendered to the Japanese after a three-month siege. Over 60,000 Filipino and American soldiers died during the Bataan Death March, a 65-mile forced march from Bataan to Tarlac. The day is observed with ceremonies at the Mount Samat National Shrine, where the names of the dead are read aloud. The shrine features a 302-foot cross that can be seen from miles away. The day honors the courage and sacrifice of those who fought and died for freedom.