Bloodless Landing Monument construction nears completion in Zambales

The construction of the Bloodless Landing Monument is nearing completion at Barangay La Paz in the town of San Narciso, Zambales.

During a site inspection by the Provincial Government on Wednesday, officials said the monument aims to preserve history and honor the heroism of fellow Filipinos. Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr. led the inspection, with Mayor La Rainne Abad-Sarmiento welcoming the delegation.

“This project is one of the important initiatives of the Provincial Government of Zambales, in collaboration with the local government of San Narciso and Barangay La Paz, with the aim to boost local culture, establish historic awareness, and promote tourism in the province,” Ebdane said.

The monument will be located inside the Bloodless Landing Park, the site of the historic “Bloodless Landing” on 29 January 1945, when 30,000 American soldiers safely landed on the shores of Barangay La Paz without a gunshot fired.

“Ang tagumpay na ito ay naging posible sa pamamagitan ng kabayanihan at sakripisyo ng mga Pilipinong gerilya na unang nagpalaya sa lugar mula sa pananakop ng mga puwersang Hapon,” he added.
(“This success was made possible through the heroism and sacrifice of Filipino guerrillas who first liberated the area from the Japanese forces.”)

“The monument will serve as a historical and educational landmark, symbolizing bravery and unity, honoring past heroes, and serving as a vessel of knowledge and inspiration for future generations of Zambaleños,” Ebdane said.

The Bloodless Landing refers to the Allied amphibious operation on 29 January 1945, at San Narciso, Zambales, during the liberation of the Philippines in World War II.

Approximately 30,000 troops of the U.S. XI Corps, led by Major General Charles P. Hall, landed on the shores of San Narciso. The force included the 38th Infantry Division and the 34th Infantry Regimental Combat Team.

The landing was unopposed because Filipino guerrillas of the La Paz Sector, Zambales Military District, had already cleared the area of Japanese forces.

Instead of combat, American forces were greeted by jubilant civilians and Philippine flags already flying on the beach. Local guerrillas even rowed out to Allied ships in bancas (small boats) to inform the commander, Admiral Arthur D. Struble, that the area was secure.

The secure landing allowed Allied forces to quickly seize the San Marcelino airstrip and advance toward Subic Bay and Olongapo, facilitating the eventual liberation of Bataan and Manila.