The Alamo Scouts group photo after the Raid at Cabanatuan in February 1945 — Historic black and white photo showing the Alamo Scouts after the successful Raid at Cabanatuan Prison in February 1945 during World War II. The top row from left to right includes Gil Cox, Wilbert Wismer, Harold Hard, Andy Smith, and Francis Laquier. The bottom row includes Galen Kittleson, Rufo Va

Bird's eye view illustration of US Rangers during the Raid at Cabanatuan showing positions and movements on January 1945 — Illustration depicting the strategic actions and positions of US Rangers in the Raid at Cabanatuan, January 1945, a World War II rescue mission.

Map showing routes taken by US Rangers during the Raid at Cabanatuan in January 1945 — Detailed map illustrating the routes taken to and from objectives by US Rangers during the Raid at Cabanatuan in January 1945, highlighting key locations and movements in the rescue operation.

Wooden prison hut at Cabanatuan POW Camp during World War II — Historic wooden prison hut located at Cabanatuan POW Camp, a significant site from World War II.

Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine with flagpoles and memorial markers under a clear sky — Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine dedicated to the Raid at Cabanatuan maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission, featuring flagpoles and memorial markers

Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine dedicated to the Raid at Cabanatuan — Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission commemorating the Raid at Cabanatuan during World War II

Sundial at Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine honoring the Raid at Cabanatuan — Close-up view of the sundial located at Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine, commemorating the Raid at Cabanatuan, maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission

Portrait of Captain Juan Pajota in military uniform — Historical photograph of Captain Juan Pajota, known for his military service, depicted in his uniform.

Ranger Captain James Fisher and Captain Bob Prince before Cabanatuan raid — Historical photo of Ranger Captain James Fisher, M.D., with Captain Bob Prince just hours before the Cabanatuan raid on January 30, 1945. Fisher later succumbed to wounds en route to Allied lines.

Captain Juan Pajota in military uniform portrait — A portrait of Captain Juan Pajota wearing military uniform, showcasing a historical figure known for his role in World War II.

Lt. Col. Henry Mucci with Capt. Vaughn Moss during World War II — Historic black and white photograph of Lt. Col. Henry Mucci, commander of the 6th Ranger Regiment, standing with his personnel officer, Capt. Vaughn Moss, during World War II.

Former Cabanatuan POWs marching to freedom — Historical image of former Cabanatuan prisoners of war marching to their liberation and freedom after captivity

Raid at Cabanatuan and Camp Pangatian

The Raid at Cabanatuan and its associated historical sites are in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. The Cabanatuan Prisoner of War (POW) Camp, also known as Camp Pangatian, was where thousands of Allied prisoners endured harsh conditions during World War II. Today, the camp grounds, Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine, and Raid at Cabanatuan Memorial commemorate the prisoners and their liberators.

History

Camp Pangatian began as a Philippine Commonwealth Army training facility and was originally a US Army training facility. The Japanese repurposed it as a POW camp in 1942, following the surrender of Allied forces in Bataan and Corregidor. Established in June 1942, it became the main POW camp in the Philippines. Prisoners, primarily Americans and Filipinos, were transferred there from Camp O’Donnell in Tarlac (USA Inquirer; Guide to the Philippines; PS Balita).

At Camp O’Donnell, daily deaths sometimes reached 30 to 40, and some 1,500 Americans died shortly after arriving. Moving prisoners to Cabanatuan aimed to reduce overcrowding, but conditions remained harsh. An estimated 9,000 POWs passed through Cabanatuan; Camp Pangatian held more than 8,000 Allied POWs. Approximately one-third of the POWs died from starvation, disease, and abuse. Many prisoners were later sent to labor camps abroad. Despite the hardship, prisoners showed resilience and camaraderie.

The POWs included survivors of the Bataan Death March, a brutal forced transfer in 1942 that led to thousands of deaths (Western Journal). By 1944, only about 500 POWs remained at Cabanatuan. In January 1945, as American forces advanced across Luzon, they learned of the imminent threat of a massacre at the camp.

The Raid at Cabanatuan took place on January 30, 1945. Filipino guerrillas and American soldiers carried out the rescue, liberating over 500 Allied prisoners as Japanese forces retreated. The operation is remembered for its tactical skill and as a symbol of courage, cooperation between Filipino and American soldiers, and the Philippines’ role in the Allied victory (Western Journal).

What to See

The Cabanatuan POW Camp grounds, Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine, and Raid at Cabanatuan Memorial offer places to learn about the camp and the rescue. Memorial grounds include monuments, commemorative plaques, gardens, and manicured lawns. Guided tours may highlight original barracks and the POW cemetery, as well as personal stories and historical context.

Photography is welcome. Memorial monuments, the central monument, historical plaques, gardens, and the POW cemetery are among the photographic spots. Official tourism websites provide virtual tours and educational content.

Cabanatuan POW Camp Memorial Monument

Map of Cabanatuan POW Camp and Nearby Attractions

Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine entrance gate

Map of Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine location

Practical Visiting Information

Visiting Hours and Admission

Opening hours and admission details vary across the site descriptions:

Cabanatuan POW Camp and Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays and major Philippine holidays. Admission is free.
Raid at Cabanatuan Memorial One schedule lists Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with tickets at PHP 50 for adults and PHP 25 for students and seniors. Another lists daily hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and free admission.

Guided tours at the POW camp are available for a nominal fee. The shrine’s tours are available by appointment through the city tourism office. Guided tours at the memorial are described as daily, and tours can also be booked through local agencies or the tourism office. Group visits can be arranged in advance.

Getting There and Accessibility

The memorial is a few kilometers outside Cabanatuan City. Manila is 120 km south, around 3–4 hours away by car or bus (Traveloka). The POW camp is also described as reachable from Manila by bus or private car in approximately 3–4 hours.

Regular buses run from Manila; local tricycles or jeepneys can take visitors the last stretch. The sites are accessible from Cabanatuan City by jeepney, tricycle, or taxi. Private vehicles are another option, with parking available; ample parking is listed at Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine. Local tours are available with historical narration and multi-site itineraries.

The sites have paved paths and ramps, and the memorial is described as wheelchair accessible. Accessible restrooms are available at the memorial; Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine has restrooms and a souvenir shop. Visitors with mobility needs are advised in the site information to contact the camp office in advance for personalized assistance.

Events and Commemorations

January 30 is the annual commemoration of the raid, featuring ceremonies, wreath-laying, reenactments, and lectures (MilitarySpot.com). Other annual events at the camp are held on the anniversary of the Bataan Death March and Liberation Day. April 9, the anniversary of the Fall of Bataan, features ceremonies and educational activities at Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine.

Tips for Visiting

Weekdays are quieter, although the camp and shrine are closed on Mondays and major Philippine holidays.
The dry season, November–April, is described as the best time to visit; December–February offers cooler temperatures and is also described as cooler and drier (Traveloka).
Visiting early or late in the day can help avoid the heat.
Wear comfortable shoes and dress modestly. Bring water, light snacks, a hat, sunscreen, rain gear during the wet season, and a camera or smartphone.
Maintain respectful silence, especially during ceremonies; use cameras discreetly and dispose of waste properly.
Check event schedules and possible maintenance closures. Book accommodations in advance for commemorative events.
The sites are suitable for educational trips. Guided tours and local guides can provide historical context.
Cabanatuan is generally safe; secure valuables and follow local guidelines.
Supporting local guides, shops, and restaurants helps the local community and preservation of the sites.

Nearby Places and Accommodation

Nearby historical and cultural sites include:

Gen. Alejo Santos Museum and Library
Cabanatuan Cathedral
Heritage District
Bataan Death March Memorial
Philippine Military Academy
Freedom Park, open daily and popular for relaxation
Plaza Lucero, a hub of Cabanatuan’s cultural district

Local cuisine is available at restaurants such as Hapag Vicenticos (Hop ‘N Cruise).

Accommodation options include Hotel Sogo Cabanatuan (budget), Harvest Hotel (mid-range), Cabua-an Beach Resort - Hostel (resort-style), and Spaces by Eco Hotel (eco-friendly). Book in advance for commemorative events (Traveloka).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the visiting hours?
The Cabanatuan POW Camp and Camp Pangatian Memorial Shrine are listed as open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on Mondays and major Philippine holidays. The Raid at Cabanatuan Memorial is listed as open either Tuesday to Sunday or daily, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Is admission free?
Admission to the POW camp and shrine is free. The memorial is described as free in one account; another lists tickets at PHP 50 for adults and PHP 25 for students and seniors.

Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are described as daily at the memorial, available by appointment through the city tourism office at the shrine, and available for a nominal fee at the POW camp. Tours can also be booked through local agencies or the tourism office.

How do I get there?
The sites are accessible from Cabanatuan City by public transport and local tricycles, jeepneys, or taxis. Manila is approximately 120 km south, about 3–4 hours away by car or bus.

Is the site accessible?
Paved paths and ramps are available. The memorial is wheelchair accessible, and visitors with mobility needs can contact the camp office in advance for personalized assistance.

Are there special events?
Yes. The annual raid commemoration is on January 30. Camp events also take place on the anniversary of the Bataan Death March and Liberation Day; April 9 features ceremonies and educational activities for the Fall of Bataan anniversary.

When is the best time to visit?
The dry season is November–April. December–February is described as cooler and drier, and weekdays are quieter.