Kiangan National Shrine

Veterans Memorial and Historical Division [02/01/2016]

In the 9th day of July 1975, a memorial has been erected as per Proclamation No. 1460 and was named "BANTAYOG SA KIANGAN", the national government cognizant of the significance to Philippine history. The shrine marks the place where the "Tiger of Malaya" General Tomoyuki Yamashita, the highest commander of the Japanese Imperial Army in the Philippines, surrendered to the Fil-American Forces. Annually, the Victory Day of Gen Yamashita's surrender is commemorated every 2na day of September.

The shrine is a tall edifice rising sheer to the skies, its line reminding of the unique architectural designs of a native Ifugao house.

The Military Shrines Service, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office started operation and administration of the shrine on 16 October 1975.

Features and Facilities

Welcome Sign: The famous "Welcome" sign at Kiangan Shrine is made of Ifugao native shrubs. It symbolizes the hospitality and friendliness of the Kiangan people.

Viewing Deck: The shrine, which symbolizes a native Ifugao house, has a viewing deck where tourists can see the mountians of Ifugao Province. The Victory Day of Gen. Yamashita's surrender is commemorated with a Wreath-laying Ceremony as the first part of the program participated by Local Officials, nearby schools, LGUs, foreigners and invited guests every 2nd day of September.

Ifugao Mountains: The Ifugao Mountains as seen from the viewing deck of the Bantayog sa Kiangan.

Tourists who are nature lovers just simply get speechless with this breath-taking sight untouched by civilization.

Mural: The Kiangan National Shrine mural is mounted on a framed plywood measuring 5mtrs and 13 inches wide by 6mtrs and 25 inches high. It is made out of narra, sculptured by Architect Alfredo Dayag. The woman standing on top, arms stretched with handcuff on each hand, and with the rising sun as the background, depicts the dawning of peace.

Gen Douglas MacArthur with men behind him on salute is making negotiations for Yamashita' s surrender. Below is Yamashita signing the Instrument of Surrender.

Further below are the atrocities made by the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II.

Ifugao House: A modern replica of a native Ifugao home serves as picnic house and a place of relaxation for the tourists and visitors of the shrine.

Ifugao Museum: The Ifugao Museum houses all the great works and creations of the native Ifugaos.

Woodcarvings and Ibaloy artifacts from Benguet province are preserved and stored here.

Photos of Ifugao's headhunting practices and old customs are also showacased.

Guesthouse: Consists of 4 guestrooms, the Kiangan Shrine Guesthouse accomodates tourists who are willing to spend the night at the shrine.

The guesthouse is the receiving area during the annual commemoration of the Victory Day of
the Surrender of Gen Tomoyuki Yamashita every 2nd day of September.

Ceremeonial Stage: The ceremonial stage is used as a venue for the annual Victory Day Celebration of the Surrender of Gen Tomoyuki Yamashita every 2nd day of September.

Ifugao Dance: The Ifugao Dance is a ritual dance of the Ifugao natives relived by students as a special number during the annual celebration of the Surrender of Yamashita. The Guest of Honor, other VIPs, LGUs and visitors were invited to dance with the Ifugao beat.

Administrative Building: This building serves as the Administrative building and business center of the shrine. It is here where guests who are visiting the shrine are received. It also serves as an office of the Senior Shrine Curator.

Yearly Commemoration

Victory Day Celebration of the Surrender of General Tomoyuki Yamashita Every 2nd day of September.