Things to Do at Plaza Cuartel

Plaza Cuartel is a solemn historical site located in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, that serves as a memorial to one of the most tragic events of World War II in the Philippines. Originally built as a Spanish garrison in the late 1800s, this fortified compound later served as a detention center for American prisoners of war during the Japanese occupation. On December 14, 1944, Japanese forces herded 150 American POWs into underground air raid shelters, doused them with gasoline, and set them ablaze in what became known as the Palawan Massacre. Today, Plaza Cuartel stands as a peaceful memorial park and museum, preserving the memory of the 139 American soldiers who perished in this horrific war crime. Only 11 prisoners managed to escape by climbing the walls and swimming across Puerto Princesa Bay. The site has been carefully maintained to honor these fallen heroes while educating visitors about this dark chapter in Philippine and American history. The memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the brutalities of war and the importance of peace.

Plaza Cuartel is located in the heart of Puerto Princesa City, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation. From Puerto Princesa International Airport, take a tricycle or taxi for the 15-minute ride to the city center. If staying in downtown Puerto Princesa, the memorial is within walking distance of most hotels and can be reached on foot in 5-10 minutes. Tricycles and jeepneys regularly pass by the area, and the site is well-marked with signage. The memorial is situated near other city attractions, making it convenient to include in a walking tour of Puerto Princesa's historical sites.