Capas, Philippines

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Capas, Philippines

Region: Tarlac


Geographic Coordinates: 15.337200, 120.590000
Temperature Range: 24.0°C to 32.0°C (75°F to 90°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with rainy season from May to October and dry season from November to April.
Population: 156056
Language: Tagalog

Capas is a small town in the province of Tarlac, Philippines, Located at the foot of Mount Pinatubo. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage and has become a popular destination for tourists. One of the most famous attractions in Capas is the Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake. Visitors can take a guided trek to reach the lake where they can enjoy stunning views of turquoise waters surrounded by rugged terrain. Capas National Shrine serves as a memorial to Filipino soldiers who died during World War II’s Bataan Death March.

The shrine features an imposing obelisk that stands tall at 70 feet high, With an eternal flame burning at its base. Tambo Lake offers visitors an opportunity to relax amidst nature’s beauty while enjoying activities such as fishing or boating. Capas also boasts several local delicacies worth trying out when visiting, Including bringhe – glutinous rice mixed with chicken meat, Coconut milk, Turmeric powder, And other spices. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year that showcase their culture and traditions.

One such festival celebrated annually on April 23rd is called Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) commemorating fallen soldiers during World War II’s Battle of Bataan. Capas offers visitors a chance to experience Kapampangan hospitality firsthand by interacting with locals who are known for their warm welcome towards visitors from all over the world. whether you are looking for adventure in nature or want to explore history and culture while enjoying local delicacies along with warm hospitality from locals – Capas has something for everyone!



Important Landmarks

  1. Mount Pinatubo
  2. Capas National Shrine
  3. Death March Marker
  4. Tarlac Heritage Park and Museum
  5. Capas Freedom Park
  6. San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish Church
  7. New Clark City Sports Complex
  8. Aquino Center and Museum
  9. Luisita Golf and Country Club
  10. Hacienda Luisita Sugar Mill

Primary Industries

  1. Capas, Philippines is primarily an agricultural town with rice, sugarcane, and vegetables being the major crops.
  2. The town also has small-scale industries such as furniture-making and handicrafts production.
  3. In recent years, there has been an increase in tourism-related businesses due to the town’s proximity to Mount Pinatubo and other natural attractions in the area.
  4. Additionally, there are some small businesses such as retail stores and eateries that cater to the local population.

Noteable History

  1. Capas Death March: In April 1942, the Japanese army forced around 70,000 Filipino and American soldiers to march from Bataan to Capas as prisoners of war. The grueling journey known as the Bataan Death March resulted in many deaths due to exhaustion, dehydration, and brutality.
  2. Mount Pinatubo eruption: After being dormant for over 600 years, Mount Pinatubo erupted in June 1991 causing widespread devastation in Capas and nearby towns.
  3. Hukbalahap Rebellion: The communist insurgency known as the Hukbalahap Rebellion lasted from the late 1940s until the early 1950s and had a significant presence in Capas.
  4. Manuel Roxas: Manuel Roxas was a prominent Philippine statesman who served as the first president of an independent Republic of Philippines from July 4, 1946 until his death on April 15, 1948.
  5. Benigno Aquino Jr.: Benigno Aquino Jr., also known as Ninoy Aquino, was an opposition leader and senator during President Ferdinand Marcos’ regime in the Philippines. He was assassinated at Manila International Airport on August 21st,1983 upon his return from exile in America.
  6. Josefa Llanes Escoda: Josefa Llanes Escoda played an instrumental role in establishing Girl Scouts of Philippines (GSP) during World War II era making her one of the most prominent women leaders at that time.
  7. Gregorio del Pilar: Gregorio del Pilar is considered one of Philippines’ national heroes for his bravery during Philippine-American War against US forces led by General Emilio Aguinaldo’s government which included battles fought near Tarlac including those fought near San Miguel de Mayumo (now San Miguel), Santo Tomas, and Capas.

Museums and Things To See

  1. Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake
  2. Capas National Shrine
  3. Capas Freedom Park and Museum
  4. Tarlac Provincial Capitol Building and Park
  5. San Sebastian Cathedral
  6. Luisita Industrial Park Monument of Peace and Unity
  7. Aquino Center and Museum
  8. Bamban Historical Marker
  9. Monasterio de Tarlac
  10. La Paz Sand Dunes



Cultural Events

  1. Christmas Day – a holiday celebrated in all barangays, held every December 25.
  2. Tarlac Day – a celebration of the founding anniversary of the province of Tarlac, held on September 28.
  3. Lenten Season – a time for religious observances and traditions such as the procession of saints and penitential practices, held during Holy Week in Capas.
  4. International Women’s Day – an event celebrating women’s achievements and advocating for gender equality, observed every March 8 in Capas.

Cuisine

  • Sisig is a well-known Filipino dish made from chopped pig’s head and liver seasoned with calamansi juice, onions, and chili peppers. LJC Restaurant in Capas serves this dish.
  • Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino stew consisting of oxtail meat and vegetables cooked in peanut sauce. Kusina ni Nanay Restaurant offers this dish.
  • Adobo is another famous Filipino meal made with marinated meat (usually chicken or pork) cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves and peppercorns until tender. Cafe de Aro serves this dish.
  • Pancit Palabok is a noodle dish topped with shrimp sauce (palabok) mixed with pork cracklings (chicharon), shrimps, boiled eggs and green onions. You can sample it at Razon’s of Guagua restaurant.
  • Lechon Kawali consists of crispy deep-fried pork belly served with dipping sauce – a classic Filipino favorite that you can try at Balsa sa Niugan restaurant.

Parks and Recreation

  1. Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake
  2. Capas National Shrine
  3. Tarlac Recreational Park
  4. Capas Freedom Park
  5. Hacienda Luisita Golf and Country Club
  6. Capas Municipal Plaza and Public Market
  7. Mount Telakawa Eco-Tourism Park
  8. Candelaria Nature Resort & Adventure Park
  9. Munting Buhangin Beach Camp
  10. Villa Alfredo’s Resort

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