Island group located approximately 120 miles north of Luzon and south of Formosa.

Batan Island
One of the first Japanese landings in their attack on the Philippines. A Japanese Special Task Force on December 8, 1941 that debarked from Formosa. Mt. Iraya, a dormant volcano at 3,307ft (1,008m) can be climbed, but only during the height of the dry season and with the aid of a guide. The usual way starts at Basco. There are no clear trails through the dense rain forests that cover the slopes. For those who prefer not to climb to the peak, there are trails that lead part of the way up the slope and then around the volcano to its coastal side

Basco
Lat 20° 26' 60N Long 121° 58' 0E

Japanese tunnels from World War II are scattered throughout the Batanes, and there are also some on the Naidi hills. Beside the gravel road going to the barrio of San Joaquin on Batan's east coast, there are a couple of tunnels partially hidden from view by the overgrowth. One is passable, but only for a few meters. Mr. Bata of the Philippine Information Agency can be a very helpful guide.

American Missions Against Basco
February 21 - April 25, 1945

Basco Airfield
Located near Basco

Basco Seaplane Base
Located near Basco

Itbud
A short distance before Imnajbu, the buildings of the abandoned US radio installation still stands.

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Last Updated
October 1, 2009