Mariveles, Philippines
Region: Bataan
Geographic Coordinates: 14.433300, 120.483000
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet and dry.
Population: 149879
Language: Filipino
Mariveles is a first-class municipality in the province of Bataan, Philippines. It is located at the southernmost tip of the Bataan Peninsula and is known for its rich history, Natural beauty, And industrial development. The town has a population of approximately 127, 000 people and covers an area of 153.90 square kilometers. One of Mariveles’ most significant landmarks is Mount Mariveles which stands at 1, 332 meters above sea level. The mountain serves as a natural boundary between Mariveles and neighboring towns like Bagac and Morong.
Mount Mariveles offers excellent hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking to explore its lush forests and scenic views. Aside from Mount Mariveles, The town also boasts several beautiful beaches that attract tourists from all over the country. One such beach is Camaya Coast Beach Resort which features crystal clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Another popular destination in Mariveles is Sisiman Bay Scenic Spot where visitors can enjoy stunning views of Corregidor Island and Manila Bay.
Mariveles has also played a significant role in Philippine history as it was one of the main sites during World War II’s infamous Death Marches. Thousands of American soldiers were forced to march through town on their way to Japanese prison camps after they surrendered in Bataan during World War II. Today, Mariveles has become an important center for industry with several large corporations operating within its borders such as Petron Corporation’s oil refinery complex which produces about 180 thousand barrels per day refining capacity making it one of Asia’s largest refineries.
In terms of culture and tradition, Mariveleños celebrate various festivals throughout the year like Araw ng Kagitingan (Day Of Valor) commemorating Filipino soldiers who fought during World War II; Pawikan Festival (Sea Turtle Festival) held every November that aims to raise awareness on conservation efforts related to sea turtles; and Sinukwan Festival (Harvest Festival) which showcases the town’s rich culture and heritage. Overall, Mariveles is a town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Historical significance, And industrial development. It is a destination worth visiting for those who want to experience the best of what Bataan has to offer.
- Mount Samat National Shrine
- Five Fingers Cove
- Sisiman Bay and Lighthouse
- Mariveles Ghost Town (Tarak Ridge)
- Camaya Coast Beach Resort
- Pawikan Conservation Center (Turtle Sanctuary)
- Tarak Ridge Hike Trail
- Playa La Caleta Beach Resort
- Bataan Nuclear Power Plant
- Lasan Eco Park
- Manufacturing – Mariveles is home to several industrial parks and manufacturing facilities producing goods such as steel, cement, chemicals, and electronics.
- Port operations – The Port of Mariveles is a major gateway for international trade in the region.
- Tourism – The town has several tourist attractions including beaches, historical landmarks, and natural reserves.
- Agriculture – The fertile lands of Mariveles are suitable for farming crops such as rice, corn, and vegetables.
- Fishing – The coastal waters of Mariveles provide a source of livelihood for many local fishermen.
- Service industry – There are various service-oriented businesses in the town such as hotels, restaurants, banks, and retail stores catering to both locals and tourists alike.
- Bataan Death March: Mariveles served as the starting point for the infamous Bataan Death March during World War II.
- Corregidor Island: Mariveles is located near Corregidor Island, which played a significant role in World War II as a strategic location for defending Manila Bay.
- Jose Abad Santos: The former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Jose Abad Santos was born in Mariveles.
- Balanga Cathedral: The Balanga Cathedral, located in nearby Balanga City, was built in 1739 and is one of the oldest churches in Bataan Province.
- Mount Samat National Shrine: Located in Pilar town near Mariveles, Mount Samat National Shrine commemorates the Battle of Bataan during World War II.
- Manuel L. Quezon: The first President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines spent some time in Mariveles during his presidency before he went into exile to escape Japanese occupation forces.
- Subic Bay Freeport Zone: The Subic Bay Freeport Zone is an economic zone located near Mariveles that was once a US Navy base and now serves as a hub for international trade and tourism.
- Tomas Pinpin: Tomas Pinpin was a printer who lived during Spanish colonial times and is considered by many to be the father of Philippine printing. He worked for many years at a printing press located in nearby Abucay town before moving to Manila later on.
- Virgilio Hilario – A Filipino actor who appeared on more than 130 films including Oro Plata Mata (1982), Himala (1982) and Batch ’81 (1982).
- The Mariveles Historical Society Museum showcases the rich history of Mariveles and its people.
- The Bataan World War II Museum is dedicated to the events that took place during World War II in Bataan.
- The Mount Samat National Shrine is a monument built in honor of Filipino soldiers who fought during World War II.
- Sisiman Baywalk and Lighthouse offer a stunning view of the sea and nearby islands, as well as a glimpse into local fishing culture.
- Tarak Ridge is a popular hiking destination that offers breathtaking views of Mariveles and nearby mountains.
- Five Fingers Cove is an eco-tourism destination with pristine beaches, rock formations, caves, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or diving.
- The Pawikan Conservation Center allows visitors to learn about conservation efforts being done to protect sea turtles in their natural habitat.
- Balon Anito Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near Barangay Alas-asin that’s ideal for swimming or picnicking with family or friends.
- Camaya Coast Beach Resort is a luxurious beach resort with white sand beaches, clear blue waters, water sports activities like jet skiing, banana boating etc., swimming pools etc.
- Kainomayan Fish Cage Floating Restaurant provides visitors with a unique dining experience where they can enjoy fresh seafood while floating on top of fish cages on Manila Bay.
- Pista ng Mariveles is a week-long celebration that honors the town’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
- Bataan Day is a commemoration of the bravery and heroism displayed by Filipino and American soldiers during World War II, particularly during the Battle of Bataan.
- The Pawikan Festival celebrates conservation efforts for sea turtles or pawikans in Mariveles. It includes activities such as beach clean-ups, turtle releases, and educational exhibits.
- The Singkaban Festival is a province-wide event that showcases Bulacan’s rich culture and heritage through parades, street dances, food fairs, and arts exhibits.
- The Kawayan Festival celebrates bamboo as a sustainable resource for livelihood and art in Mariveles through music performances, dance competitions, craft workshops, and bamboo-themed exhibitions.
- The Karagatan Festival honors the town’s coastal resources and fishing industry through traditional dances like tinikling or pandanggo sa ilaw along with seafood cook-offs and boat races.
- The Feast of San Isidro Labrador pays tribute to farmers’ patron saint with a procession of carabaos adorned with flowers followed by a harvest festival featuring local produce like rice cakes or bibingka.
- Bataan’s Best – known for their tocino, longganisa, and other Filipino breakfast favorites.
- Lutong Bahay ni Nanay – serves authentic Filipino dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare.
- Cafe Kyoto – specializes in Japanese cuisine like sushi rolls and ramen.
- The Beanery Cafe – a cozy coffee shop that also offers light meals like sandwiches and pasta dishes.
- Seafood Island – a seafood restaurant that serves fresh catch from the nearby waters of Bataan.
- Kusina Ni Lola Elysa – another local restaurant that offers traditional Filipino dishes with a home-cooked feel.
- Dampa sa Mariveles – an open-air market where you can choose your own fresh seafood to be cooked on the spot by various stalls.
- Mariveles Nature Park is a stunning nature reserve that boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the Bataan Peninsula.
- Camaya Coast is an excellent choice for beach lovers who enjoy water sports activities like kayaking, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
- Sisiman Bay is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts and those who love swimming or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters with coral reefs.
- Tarak Ridge offers a challenging hiking trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Mariveles and nearby mountains.
- Mount Samat National Shrine is an essential historical site that commemorates the Battle of Bataan during World War II.
- Laki Beach is another beautiful beach in Mariveles perfect for swimming or sunbathing under sunny skies.
- Five Fingers Cove is a hidden gem in Mariveles offering five coves to explore by boat or kayak – a must-visit spot!
- The Pawikan Conservation Center aims to protect endangered sea turtles through education and conservation efforts – it’s worth visiting!
- Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) Park provides guided tours around the facility to learn about its history – it’s an informative experience!
- Bagac Bay Beach Resort offers private access to Bagac Bay with various water sports activities such as Banana Boat rides or Jet Skiing – perfect for adventure seekers!
Overall, Mariveles has plenty of options for those looking to try out different types of cuisine ranging from classic Filipino dishes to international flavors like Japanese food or coffee shop fare.
