Puerto Princesa City Tour Part 2: Plaza Cuartel

Day 3: City Tour Part 2

Plaza Cuartel


Just across the Immaculate Conception Cathedral is Plaza Cuartel, a very historic place not only for Filipinos, but for Americans as well.

Plaza Cuartel entrance





This peaceful park used to be an old garrison that was restored and now maintained by the local government of Puerto Princesa. Its grim history tells of how the old structure served as garrison for the Spaniards, passed onto the Americans then finally to the Japanese soldiers who kept about 150 American POW inside.



Enclosed structure where the tunnel can be found

Also known as the Palawan Massacre, which happened on the eve of December 14, 1944, some 143 American prisoners of World War II were burned alive inside the tunnel by the Japanese Imperial Army Kempei-Tai soldiers, leaving only 11 survivors who were able to escape by swimming towards the sea.



Marker made by war veteran and
Palawan Massacre survivor Don T. Schloat



Memorial marker for the 143 American POWs,
with names fo the 11 survivors 





 







 

 In addition to the monuments erected to commemorate the heroism of the American POW soldiers and the 11 survivors, there are many scenic spots here where people can hang around and pose for great pictures. You can even see a view of the sea at the farthest end of the park.

I was initially struck by the quietness of the place as soon as we entered its gates, and upon reading the insciptions on the markers, I realized why. This was one of those places not only touched, but burned by the many atrocities of the Japanese during World War II. It was truly a dreadful chapter in our country's history.

 

However, like the ocean seen at the farest end of the park where the survivors found freedom, we can look at the brighter side of things. Some did survive the nightmare, afterall. And I think it was with that purpose that this place was restored, not only to remind us of the dreadful past, but also the hope that the future can be bright for all of us.



Plaza Cuartel Park



Fountain

 







  











 



Plaza Cuartel

Taft St., Barangay Liwanag, Pureto Princesa City

Open daily from 8am-6pm

Admission is free

How to get there:

-Ride a trike (Php8)

-Walk from your accommodation if it's just nearby