BALETE PASS/DALTON PASS is the gateway to the Cagayan Valley Region and the Ifugao Rice Rerraces. Located 3,000 feet above sea level.
This rugged piece of terrain where part of the Caraballo Sur reaches south and joins the Sierra Madre. Because of its strategic importance as the only access between Central Luzon and Cagayan Valley Region, the pass became the scene of much bloody fighting during the final stages of Wold War II. Japnese Shobu soldiers headed by General Tomoyuki Yamashita tried to hold their positions while Filipino American soldiers under the leadership of Colonel Robert Lapham, were determined to dislodge them February to March 1945.
The shrine is a reminder for Gen. James L. Dalton's bravery and leadership.
The Japanese lost 7,750 at Balete Pass, and 5,410 at Salacsac Pass. The Battle of Balete Pass incurred the death of 685, and wounding of 2,090, 25th Division American soldiers between February 21 and May 31, 1045. The Battle of Villa Verde Trail, or the Battle of Salacsac Pass, cost the American 32nd Division, 825 killed and 2,160 wounded.
The casualities among Filipino Commonwealth regulars, Constabulary and guerrillas were 285 killed and 1,134 wounded in battle. The Japanese 10th Division and 2nd Tank Division were finished as effective combat units.
By the close of hostilities, the blood of almost seventeen thousand Japanese fighting units and the US-Filipino allied forces mingled with the soil. Markers that commemorate their sacrifice stand by the road's highest point, with good view into the highlands.
BALETE PASS / DALTON PASS
Location: Boundary Highway between Caranglaan, Nueva Ecija and Sta Fe, Nueva Vizcaya
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