Zero Km. Death March Marker
It marks the start of the death march in Bagac. Unveiled in 1968, it has the same structure as that in Mariveles wherein a bayonet was thrust to the ground with a soldier’s helmet symbolically slung over the rifle bust.
About
The Zero Kilometer Death March Marker, located in Mariveles, Bataan, Philippines, is a significant historical landmark that marks the starting point of the infamous Bataan Death March. This marker stands as a poignant reminder of the harrowing events that transpired during World War II, specifically in April 1942, when tens of thousands of Filipino and American soldiers were forced to march over 60 miles under brutal conditions by their Japanese captors.
The marker itself is a simple yet solemn monument, often depicted as an obelisk or pillar, adorned with plaques and inscriptions. These inscriptions provide historical context and pay homage to the courage and suffering of the soldiers who endured the grueling march. The plaques are typically inscribed in both English and Filipino, ensuring that the significance of the site is accessible to a broad audience.
Located at the entrance of the Mariveles Municipal Hall, the Zero Kilometer Marker serves as the starting point for the Bataan Death March. From this location, the soldiers began their forced journey northward to San Fernando, Pampanga, and subsequently to Capas, Tarlac, where they faced further hardships in Japanese prison camps. The exact route is now a historical trail, with markers and memorials placed along the way to commemorate key points and events during the march.
The surroundings of the marker are often well-maintained, with landscaped gardens and areas designated for visitors to reflect and pay their respects. Each year, especially during the annual commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on April 9, the site attracts veterans, their families, students, historians, and tourists. Ceremonies held at the marker involve wreath-laying, speeches, and other acts of remembrance and honor.
The Zero Kilometer Death March Marker is not only a tribute to those who suffered and perished during the march but also serves as an educational tool, reminding current and future generations of the atrocities of war and the resilience and bravery of those who endured them. It stands as a solemn symbol of sacrifice, courage, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.