Plaza Cuartel (Puerto Princesa) FAQs In 2026 - 2027

Plaza Cuartel is a historic site located in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It is the remnants of an old garrison where Japanese soldiers burned around 150 American prisoners of war during World War II. Today, the site is a public park with a memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives.

Plaza Cuartel is located in the city of Puerto Princesa in Palawan, the Philippines. It is near the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, along Taft Street, just a short distance from the city's main thoroughfare, Rizal Avenue.

Plaza Cuartel is historically significant as a site where a tragic event took place during World War II. The Japanese forces occupying the Philippines at the time used the garrison as a prison camp. On December 14, 1944, they burned around 150 American POWs in a tunnel dug under the structure. Only 11 of the prisoners managed to escape and survive, making the event one of the darkest moments of the war in Palawan.

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Plaza Cuartel. It is an open park accessible to the public free of charge.

Tourists can see the remnants of the old garrison, which include the restored ruins of the barracks and tunnels. There is also a bronze plaque that lists the names of the American POWs who were killed, and an informative historical marker detailing the events that took back in 1944. Visitors are also treated to a peaceful and reflective garden area.

Plaza Cuartel is generally open 24 hours as it is a public park. However, specific areas within the park, such as the memorial itself, may have restricted hours for maintenance or special events.

Tourists can easily get to Plaza Cuartel by taking a tricycle, which is a common mode of transportation in Puerto Princesa, or by walking if they are staying in nearby accommodations. It is also often included in city tours, which can be arranged through local travel agencies or hotels.

While there may not be official guided tours specifically for Plaza Cuartel, the site is commonly included in the historical and city tour packages offered in Puerto Princesa, where guides provide detailed information about its history.

Other attractions near Plaza Cuartel include the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Puerto Princesa Baywalk, Palawan Museum, and the local market. Many visitors combine a trip to the Cuartel with these nearby sights.

Yes, photography is allowed at Plaza Cuartel, and it is a good spot for tourists to take photos due to its historical significance and the serene park setting.