REGION 8:

EASTERN
VISAYAS
Submitted By:
CORDERO, Jaime Lorenzo E.
HERNANDEZ, Jenalyn G.
PAMILAR, Donikka G.
Submitted To:
Prof. Joseph Stewart Tullao

Introduction:
Majority of the locals here are Waray and speak Waray-Waray. Warays are
descendants of Austronesian migrants who settled in the Philippines in the Iron Age.
In 1521, they became the first Filipinos encountered by Europeans, care of
Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. They subsequently became one of the first
local groups to convert to Christianity. Notable Warays include Former First Lady
Imelda Marcos and statesman Norberto Romuldez.
The region remains relatively under-the-radar compared to other tourist
destinations in the Philippines, but this is slowly changing. More and more people
troop here in pursuit of rugged coasts and landscapes, secret caves and waterfalls,
and fascinating histories as well as the company of people content with the
simple life, happy to enjoy the bounty of nature.

Location of the Region:

Absolute Location:
11.4167 N, 125.0000 E
Relative Location:
North San Bernardo Strait
East Philippine Sea
West Camotes Sea &Visayas Sea
South Bohol Sea
Tourist Arrivals:
YEAR

TOTAL OF INTERNATIONAL & DOMESTIC

TOURISTS

2012

237,492

2013

371,913

PROVINCE

CAPITAL

Northern Samar

Catarman

Samar (Western)

Catbalogan

Eastern Samar

Borongan

Biliran

Naval

Leyte

Tacloban

Southern Leyte

Maasin

Access to the Region:

By Air:
Manila
Tacloban
(Philippine Airlines or
Cebu Pacific)
By
Sea:
Cebu Ormoc [Supercat
(Aboitiz) FATIMA (WG&A)]
By Land:
Around the region only.
1. PHILTRANCO
2. JD BUSLINE
3.VELMAR BUS LINE
4.Philippine Eagle Bus Line
5. SHE BUS LINE
6. PONCE BUS LINE
7. ST. BERNARDINE BUS LINE
8. SAN JUAN BUS LINE Area, Tacloban City
NORTHERN SAMAR

Capital: Catarman
Location:
* South- Samar & Eastern Samar
* Northwest- (across the San Bernandino
Strait)Sorsogon
* East- Philippine sea
* West- Samar sea
24 Municipalities
Population: 590, 000
(2010)
Area: 3, 692.93 km
People: Waray- waray
* Present: Ninorte
Samarenyoor
Nortehanon
Language:
NinorteSamarnon,Tagalog and English
Access to the Province:
- Air: Fly from Manila (1 hour) to Catarman.
-

Land: Ride a bus (14 to 16 hours) from Manila to Catarman. The trip
includes a two-hour crossing through the San Bernardino Strait.

Sea: Ride a boat (9 hours) from Cebu to Calbayog, before embarking on a

land trip (1 hour and 30 minutes) to Catarman

History:
Northern Samar is one of the three Samar provinces created on June 19, 1965
by virtue of Republic Act No. 4221.
In 1596, it was among the first places to be evangelized by the Spaniards.
The small island of Capul was the capital of the province of Samar in 1848-1852.
Tourist Destinations:

Natural

White Beach - Located in Catarman, Northern Samar. Faces the seemingly

rough San Bernandino Strait along a white silky sand beach.

Bani Island Beaches Located in Lavezares, Northern Samar. Ideal for scuba
diving; best for swimming.

Capul Island Most known for its lighthouse and old church.
*Capul Lighthouse - A lighthouse on Titoog Point in San Luis on the northern tip
of Capul Island, Northern Samar in the Philippines. It marks the western entrance to
the San Bernardino Strait coming in from Ticao Pass. Construction on the lighthouse
was started on October 1893 and it was first lit on December 1896 while the station
was still partially complete. Work was suspended a month before on November
1896 on the onset of the Philippine Revolution.

*Capul Church - The church is dedicated to San Ignacio de Loyola. It was built
by the
Jesuits in 18th century.And was renovated by the Franciscans in the late 19 th
century.

Religious

Bobon Church A church dedicated to the Sto. Nio.

Catarman Cathedral- The church is strategically located in front of the plaza

and right across the town hall. The church had been renovated and expanded. It
used to be a stone church. Nothing much is left of the original church except the
main retablo.

Man-Made

University of Eastern Philippines Located in Catarman, Northern Samar. It is

the only state university in Samar Island. The campus faces the Pacific ocean and is
nestled between hills; well-landscaped grounds and sunken garden. Has an
amphitheatre carved on a mountainside which can accommodate 10, 000 people.
Festivals:

Embajada Festival(Movable Date) - A re-enactment of the Christianization by

the Spanish conquestadores of the native Filipinos, who subsequently embraced
Christianity after putting up a gallant resistance.

Bankaton Festival (August 20) Annual boat racing contest to celebrate the
feast of NuestraSeora de Salvacion, the patron saint of the town of Lavezares.

Kinis (Mud Crab) Festival(October 5) - The Kinis Festival is celebrated annually

and promotes Municipality of Rosario as the Mud Crab Capital of Northern Samar.

Products & Delicacies:

Mazapan de Pili

Nata De Coco

Mud

Crab
Special Interests:

Visit Capul Island: Explore secluded beaches and structures from the Spanish.
SAMAR(formerly known as Western Samar)

Capital: Catbalogan City

Location:
* North Northern Samar
* East Eastern Samar
* West Samar Sea
* South Leyte Gulf
24 Municipalities & 2 cities
Population: 733, 777 (2010)
Area: 3, 6, 048 km
People: Waray- waray/Westehanon
Language: Waray-waray ,Cebuano and
English
Access to the Province:
-

Air: There are daily flights from Manila to

Calbayog City via AirPhil Express. You can also
fly to Tacloban City via Philippine Airlines,
Cebu Pacific Air, TigerAirways, Zest Air and
Airphil Express.
Land: Ride a bus or hire a van from Tacloban City to Catbalogan, Samar,
and other municipalities.
Sea: Visitors from Cebu may take one of the three trips a week to and fro
Calbayog City via Cokaliong Shipping Lines.

History:
The Jesuit missionaries founded Samar in 1596.The former names given to
Samar were Zamal, Ibabao, Achan and Tandaya. Legend stated that when the
Spaniards first set foot in Homonhon, they met a wounded native from whom they
asked the name of place. The wounded man did not understand Spanish. He
thought they were asking what happened to him so he answered Samad, meaning
wound in the local dialect. So the navigators adopted the name of the island with an
alternation of the last letter, from Samad to Samar.
Tourist Destinations:

Natural

Bangon - Bugtong Falls Located in Brgy. San Joaquin of Calbayog City. Has a
circular pond about 30 meters in diameter, wide enough for swimming and deep
enough for diving. The cascading water seems to come from streams flowing
endlessly. Bugtong falls is not only a tourist spot but also a potential source of
power for Calbayog City and its neighboring localities.

Guinogo-an Cave Located at the fringes of Barangay Longsob, Oquendo District

Calbayog City.
It has a large entrance that leads to a natural tunnel with an uneven ceiling, some
portions touching ones head.

Mapaso Hot Spring Located in Barangay Rizal II, Oquendo District Calbayog City.
Mapaso meaning hot. Fresh crustaceans (pokot) abound.

Tabokno Falls Located in Barangay Caybago, Oquendo District. A beautiful and

scenic waterfall. It is a favorite picnic site of local residents and their source of
potable water.

Pan-as Falls Located in Barangay Pilar, Oquendo District. Not only is this a tourist
spot but this is also a source of water for its residents. At places where the cataract
is high, the water falling into the pool below becomes a mere mist.

Sohotan Natural Bridge National Park Located in Basey, Samar. The grandeur of
the natural resources of Samar Island and region 8. It is internationally known for its
natural beauty expressed in its caves, rivers, waterfalls and limestone formations.

Blanca Aurora Falls Located in San Jorge, Samar. A favorite bathing resort of
Samarenos.

Malajog Look Beach- the ever-famous beach in Calbayog, not to mention the VIP's,
foreign & local tourists that flocks in during summer time. With the breath taking
crystal clear water, very fine grayish sand on its seabed and marvelous pebbles
along its shoreline, this makes the place a perfect hideaway.

Bagacay Beach Located along the Maharlika highway. It has an uncrowded pearl
white strip of coastline with coconut trees offering a scenic view of islands and
towns.

Marabut Marine Park Located in Marabut, Samar. It has 15 towering rock islets with
secluded beach coves and coral gardens ideal for snorkeling, swimming scuba
diving, sunbathing and other aqua sports activities.

Cultural

Samar Archeological Museum & Research Center Located in Christ the King college
in Calbayog City. Opened on April 11, 1970. It is the first and only museum in Samar.
A collection of archeological artifacts dating back to the 14 th century.

Religious

Calbayog (Sts. Peter and Paul) Cathedral- It occupies one whole block in the heart
of Calbayog city. Its tell-tale dome, spire and thick walls reveal the blending of
Spanish and modern architectural designs.

Sacred Heart Statue Located behind the Holy Infant parish church of Oquendo. The
statue of the Sacred Heart Of Jesus on top of the hill overlooking the panoramic
view of Calbayog city, the Hibatangriver and lush greenery.

Basey 17th Century Church / St. Michael the Archangel Located in Basey, Samar.
An old Catholic church built during the Spanish era. It features a watchtower and old
images of saints painted on the ceiling.

Man-Made

Nijaga Park Situated in the heart of Calbayog city. Site of social, political, cultural
and sports activities. The Rizal monument, fountain and amphitheater are its focal
features.

Festivals:

Pahoy PahoyFestival(May 25) Folks in the towns barangays are creating giant
and medium pahoy (scarecrow). The scarecrows would then be included in the
parade during the town fiesta.

Bagulan (June 19) Merry-making after a good coconut harvest.

Kaadlawanhan Samar (August 11) Samar day is celebrated with

socio-cultural activities.It was on this day that Qeeen Isabella II
approved the recreation of Samar as a military province.
Mayaw- Mayaw Ethnic Festival (May 10) Pag-mayaw is an old
waray word meaning to give offerings and homage to the gods and
to drive away evil spirits.
Products & Delicacies:

White Cheese

Tikog Mat

Special Interests:

Experience the caving capital of the Philippines : Don your spelunking gear and
explore sites like the Guinogo-an Cave.

Bathe under a
waterfall

EASTERN SAMAR

Capital: Borongan
Location:
* South- Leyte Gulf
* North - Northern Samar

* East- Philippine sea

* West- Samar Province
22 Municipalities
Population:428,877 (2010)
Area:4,660.47 km2
People: Waray- waray& Cebuano
Language: Cebuano, Waray, Tagalog
and English

Access to the Province:

-

Air :Major carriers fly directly from Manila to Tacloban (one hour) daily.
From Tacloban, its a 3 hour bus or shuttle ride to Eastern Samar.
Land :Ride a bus or shuttle (3 hours) from Tacloban to Eastern Samar.

History:
The province of Eastern Samar was created by Republic Act No. 4221
approved by congress on June 19, 1965. It divided the whole island of Samar into
three independent provinces: Northern Samar, Western Samar, and Eastern Samar.

Tourist Destinations:

Homonhon Island Located southeast of Guiuan, 60 nautical miles from Tacloban

City. Tiny island where Ferdinand Magellan and his men first set foot on Philippine
soil on March 16, 1521.

Suluan Island Located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. The first Filipinos who made
contact with Magellan lived here; has sandy beaches.

Navy 3149 Base Located in Ngolos, 23 km. from the town proper of Guiuan,
Eastern Samar. Base of the American soldiers of WWII; commands a view of the
Pacific Ocean. Base of the Enola Gay (B-52 Bomber) which dropped the first
atomic bomb on August 7, 1945 in Hiroshima, Japan.

Sulangan Beach Located 24 km. on the town proper of Guiuan. Habitat of the
world- famous Golden Cowrie ideal site for deep fishing, scuba divig; multi-colored
school of fishes is a common sight.

Kantican Island / Pearl Island Located in the town of Guiuan, the pearl culture
farm is a haven of rich marine life such as lobsters, shells, fishes, abalones, and
corals. Kantican Island is endowed with clear blue waters and an immaculately
white coral beach, making it the perfect site for scuba diving, fishing, and
swimming.

Church of the Immaculate - Located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. A 16th century

church with its entire structure still preserved, including old relics of santos and
handcarved altars and doors.

Divinuvo Island - Divinubo Island is located near Borongan, the capital of Eastern
Samar. The island faces the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by small islets, white
sand beach and clear blue water. One can easily reach Divinubo Island through
public boats from Borongan.

Upon reaching the island, visitors will be amazed by the wonderful natural
attractions that they will see. They will also see the breathtaking views of the Pacific
Ocean.

Hamorawon Spring - - Located at the heart of the town of Borongan. A natural

spring said to be miraculous. Boronganon legend has it that whoever takes a bath in
this cool spring, especially those who come from foreign lands, will surely go home
with a Boronganon wife. Around the spring is a Spanish-built stone wall.

Canhugas Beach - - Located in Hernani, Eastern Samar. This beach is legendary. It

has a 200-meter foot bridge from the reef to the sea said to be built by a giant.
There is also a rock formation that looks like man-made steps, and the waves
slamming on it flow down through the steps resembling a waterfall.

Ganap Cave - - Located in Barangay Cagbonga which is about 13 km. northwest of

Borongantownproper. With beautiful spring; stalactites and stalagmites of various
colors and sizes.

Locso-on Cave - - Located in Barangay Locso-on, about 8.5 kilometers south of

Borongan. A beautiful cave full of stories and legends. Old folks would swear that
many strangers get lost in this cave when they go deep into the hinterlands of
Suribao River.

Sohotan Cave - Located about 5 to 10 minutes by jeepney or tricycle from Borongan

town proper. A large cave with natural rock formation where old folks used to hide
during the Pulahan days.

Divinubo Lighthouse - - Located in Divinubo Islands, which could be reached from

Brgy. Lalawigan, Borongan. A beautiful lighthouse atop the mountain of Divinubo,

which was constructed by the American engineers in 1906. It was originally a gasoperated facility but now it is electrically lighted and is enclosed in thick glass. It
beams a bright light every 15 seconds. It serves to locate and guide the position of
international and inter-island ships passing the treacherous Pacific Ocean.

Festival:

Padul-ong - (September 7; Borongan, Eastern Samar). Padul-ong relates how the

lady of Nativity became the Patroness of Borongan.

Products & Delicacies:

Abalone
Special Interests:

Timber

Copra

Mais

Brush up on history - Step back into interesting moments in Philippine history with
visits to Homonhon Island and Divinuvo Island

BILIRAN
Capital : Naval
Location:
* South- Carigara Bay
* North- Samar Sea
* East- Western Samar
* West- Visayan Sea
8 Municipalities
Population: 161,760(2010)
Area: 536.01 km2
People: Waray- waray, Cebuano
Language: Cebuano, Waray-waray, Tagalog
and English

Access to the Province:

-

Air :Major carriers fly directly from Manila to Tacloban (one hour) daily.
Land : Ride a bus or shuttle (2 hours and 30 minutes) from Tacloban to
Naval, the capital of Biliran. Or ride a bus or shuttle (2 hours) from Ormoc
City to Naval.
Sea :Ride a ferry (10 hours) from Cebu to Naval. Or take a fast craft from
Cebu going to Ormoc. From Ormoc City, you can hire a van going to Naval.

History:
During the early Spanish era, what is now called Biliran Island was
known as Isla de Panamao. The term refers to an ethnic fishing net. The

present name, believed to be adopted sometime between the late 1600s and
the early 1700s, was, according to many publications, derived from a native
grass called borobiliran which once grew abundantly on the islands plains. A
contending theory states that the name came from the word bilir, which was
defined in an old Visayan dictionary to be the corner or edge of a boat, vase
or anything protruding, like veins, or the furrow made by the plow.

Tourist Destinations:

Tomalistis Falls (BrgyAsug,Caibiran, Biliran) - : Although Biliran is a small island on

the northern tip of Leyte, it is laden with natural wonders that make it a splendid
paradise. Tomalistis Falls in Caibiran is one of its extraordinary attractions that will
surely leave an impression on every visitor.
This falls made it to Guinness Book of World Records because it has the "sweetesttasting water in the world." It is the main source of fresh water for the people in the
area. The water itself is spring water which contains different minerals which lend
to its sweet, refreshing taste. The falls itself is close to the seaside and its waters
gently flow out to the waiting sea. The falls is one of the proudest attractions of
Biliran and is a reason why this small island is treasure trove of natural wonders
Place to stay :Bunga Prime resort

Tinago Falls - The most hypnotic waterfalls magnificently lay its beauty in the heart
of Caibiran rainforest, a loop trail taking 10 minutes from the highway. A hideaway
that blends perfectly for nature lovers; rich blend of trees, vines, & other exotic
plants accompanied by the cooling & enchanting sounds of rushing streams. The
Tinago Falls make for a good photo-op, steadily plummeting down to an enclave
surrounded by verdant rocks. Tinago Falls in particular is the most famous among
Biliran's waterfalls. It got its name from the word tinago which translates to
'hidden' in English. This is probably because Tinago Falls is located in the interior of
the island, up in the highlands of the town of Caibiran. A minimal entrance fee of
P10.00 person will be collected at the view deck's entrance.
LocationBrgy.Cabibihan, CaibiranBiliran; can be reached by any land transport; approximately
30 - 45 mins. ride from Naval.

Higatangan Island - : Moving sand bar extending about 200 meters to the sea; one
huge coral rock-a reef that was thrust up from the ocean's floor centuries ago. The
fields are studded with gigantic clam shells measuring up to a meter wide. Former
Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos reportedly took refuge on this island during
World War II, prompting its highest point to be named Marcos Hill.

Mainit Hot Spring - deliver flowing water in varying degrees of heat, good for
soothing sore muscles. Concrete seats where warm water with medicinal sulfur
content overflows were built for the ease of the public.

Agta Beach Resort - White sandy beach stretching from both sides of a cove with
lovely Dalutan and Kapinahan on the horizon.

Tingkasan Bat Cave - - A haven for adventure seekers, Tingkasan Bat Cave is
located in the municipality of Kawayan. Aside from being a natural habitat for bats,
the cave also served as a perfect diving and spear-fishing site. Local folks believe
that the caves rectangular opening was created by the Japanese in World War II.

Iyusan Rice Terraces - Iyusan Rice Terraces, which are located in Almeria, are
patterned after the famous Banaue Rice Terraces in Mountain Province. The terraces
are created to help farmers optimize rice yield.

Sambawan Island - - Sambawan Island is endowed with beautiful white sandy

beach, rich marine life and coral gardens, which invite intrepid divers and snorkelers
especially on summer season. During high tide, Sambawan transforms into three
beautiful islets.

Masagonsong Swimming Pool - Twin pools of free-flowing spring water, shaded by

coconut trees and lush tropical fruits. The resorts cool waters and invigorating
atmosphere offer absolute relaxation to any visitor. It has a conference hall, kiosk,
comfort and dressing rooms.

Festivals:

Hudyaka Second week of May.he provincial anniversary, it features street dancing.

Products & Delicacies:

SumanBalintawak
Special Interests:

Get soaked - With falls like the hidden Tinago Falls, the thundering Tomalistis Falls
and all sorts in between, there is no shortage of waterfalls here.

Laze around on the beach - Island-hop and get some me time at Higatangan
Island or Sambawan Island.

To the Bat cave!

Soothe those muscles - Sit and soak in the Mainit Hot springs

LEYTE
Capital:Tacloban City
Location:
* North - Biliran
* South Southern Leyte
* East Samar
* West Camotes Sea
40 Municipalities
Population: 2,188,295 (as of
2010)
Area: 7,368 km
People: Waray
Languages: Cebuano, Waray-waray
Tourist Arrival:15,616 (2012)

History
In 1595, the Jesuits established the first mission in Leyte.
At this time, there were only 19 pueblos with 70,000 people whom missionaries
converted to Christianity. The Jesuits mission was abandoned when the Order was
expelled from the Philippines in 1768.
The capital site of Leyte changed several times before Tacloban City became
permanent capital in 1787. The first capital was Carigara then Palo and Tanauan.
In 1944, Leyte became world-famous as the point of entry for the American forces
of liberation. Leyte, specifically Tacloban, assumed historical significance as the
temporary seat of the Philippine Commonwealth from October 23, 1944.
Access to the Province
Air Three airlines operate regularly from Manila to Tacloban City.
Land - Ride a bus (24 hours) from Manila to Tacloban.
Sea - Ride a ferry from Matnog, Sorsogon to Allen or San Isidro in Northern Samar or
from Cebu to Ormoc.
Tourist

Destinations

Leyte Provincial Capitol It is the seat of the provincial government of Leyte. It

was also the seat of the Commonwealth Government of the Philippines when
President Sergio Osmea, Sr. came in 1944 with the WWII Liberation Forces.

CAP Building An example of American colonial homes built in the 1900s. Sturdy
mansion where General Douglas MacArthur put up his official headquarters and
residence during the Liberation period in 1944.

Redona Residence Official residence of President Sergio Osmea, Sr. when he

stayed in the province with the American Liberation Forces in 1944 until the
Philippine Commonwealth was re-established in Manila.

Gen. Douglas MacArthur Landing Memorial The monument marks the spot
where General Douglas MacArthur landed with the American Liberation Forces in
1944. The statues of the liberators stand in a lagoon, 1.5 times bigger than lifesize.
A beautiful beach can be found in the area.

Hill 522 Commonly called GuinhangdanHill, it was the entrance to the first
liberated town of Palo in 1944 after having been heavily bombarded to destroy the
garrisons built by the Japanese artillery units.

Hill 120 Commonly called CatmonHill, it was where the first American flag was
raised by the Liberation Forces of the U.S. Army on October 20, 1944.

Battle of Baluarte Marker Site of the historic battle between Filipino guerillas
and Japanese Imperial Forces at dawn of August 24, 1944

Hilongos Bell Tower - Highest existing bell tower built during the Spanish era;
historic viewing of Spanish fort/marker at churchyard.

Buga-Buga Hills A mountain where thousands of Japanese soldiers died

defending the area and hundreds of American lives were sacrificed in the assault to
capture this hill during World War II.

Philippine-Japan Peace Memorial An impressive memorial marker put up by

Nagoya and Gifu Prefectures; one of the citys picturesque hills overlooking Ormoc
Bay.

Boy Scout Monument The first Boy Scout monument in the world erected in
human form in 1941.

]
Monument of the Filipino Soldier A tribute to the Filipino World War II soldiers
and veterans who offered their supreme sacrifice for the sake of freedom.

Palo Memorial Cathedral Converted into an evacuation hospital of the Allied

Forces of Liberation and refuge of civilians during World War II.

Breakneck Ridge Site of the bloodiest battles during the liberation of the
Philippines.

Tacloban City Hall Seat of the city government of Tacloban since June 12, 1952.

Peoples Center and Library Historical documents recording the rich cultural
heritage of the people of Samar and Leyte; a collection of dioramas of the 82 ethnic
tribes of the Philippines.

Sto. Nio Shrine and Heritage Museum- Paintings of the 14 stations of the
Cross done by Filipino artists, wooden bas-relief of the legend of the First Filipino
man-woman (Si Malakas at siMaganda). Image of the Holy Child; a collection of
original paintings by Fernando Amorsolo.

White Beach (Calanggaman Island) Good for fishing, swimming, boating,

skiing, picnicking.

San Jaunico Strait Between the islands of Leyte and Samar. It is said to be the
narrowest yet the most navigable strait in the world.

Red Beach Landing site of the Allied Forces headed by Gen. Douglas MacArthur
during the liberation of the Philippines in 1944.

Mahagnao National Park awe-inspiring craters hot springs, multi-colored muds

and rocks, lakes, virgin forests with giant ferns and orchids, lagoon, and temperate
climate.

Tongonan Hotsprings National Park A valley of geothermal power source that

can supply electicity to the whole region when fully developed; first geothermal
power plant to operate in the Philippines.

Himokilan Island Largest island in the Cuatro Islas where the big delicious
coconut-cracking crabs called tatus are found.

Lake Danao a A violin-shaped lake 2,100 feet above sea level and 3 km, long;
Lake Danao is said to be the habitat of giant eel.

Cuatro Islas Four lovely isles namely, Digyo, Apid, Mahaba, and Himokilan
bordered by white sandy shore.

Mahaba Island Underwater paradise for eco-tourism; beautiful view of Camotes

Sea; good for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving.

Mt. PangasuganEcopark One of few remaining virgin rainforest in the

Philippines. It is richly endowed with diverse flora and fauna, many of which are
considered endangered species like flying lemurs and tarsiers.

Madonna of Japan Landscaped garden with statue of the Goddess of Peace

called Maria Kannon donated by the Japanese people a symbol of peace and
friendship between the Philippines and Japan.

Sto.Nio Church Miraculous Image of Sto.Nio, patron saint of Leyte.Also known

as the Church of Liberation.

Stations of the Cross The 14 Stations of the Cross in more than life-size
concrete forms leading to the 18-foot statue of the Sacred Heart of Christ.

Buddhist Temple 2-storey pagoda where monks and Buddhist make their
worship, prayers and offerings.

San Juanico Bridge Longest and most beautifully designed bridge in the
Philippines.

SOS Children/Youth Villages Cottages housing orphaned and abandoned

children and youth; sports facilities; playground; social hall. Well-maintained
villages; beautiful school building and cottages donated by an Austrian philanthropy
the late Dr. Herman Gmeiner.
Festivals

Palos Holy Week Traditions Leyte was declared in the Diocesan Synod of 1910
as a center of faith and religousity in Eastern Visayas.

Turugpo Festival Traditional jousts of native carabaos (pasungay) and horses

(paaway). Cockfight (karambola) is another attraction.

Sunduan ha Carigara Easter Sunday celebrations with songs and dances and a
colourful parade of floats depicting the rich history of the town of Carigara.

The BarugoSanggutan Festival It is the dance of men (the managgetes) and

women (their wives, sister, daughter) involved in the production of the red wine.

Lingganay Festival Street pageant depicting the legendary and mythical story of
the bells.

Pintados Festival A dance festival of painted dancers celebrating important

event like exploits of war , nature worship in narrative dance movements depicting
their own folk practices and beliefs.

Pasaka Festival A dance parade and street pageantry showing the culture of the
town of Tanauan as it honors its patron saint, Our Lady of the Assumption.

Lubi-Lubi Festival A dance festival extrolling the many uses of the coconut parts
as costumes, props, and accessories. This street dance and merry-making depicts
the origin of the towns name, which means abundance of coconuts (lubi) which is
considered as the tree of life.

Buyogan Festival Adjudged as one of the ten best festivals of the Philippines,
Buyogans artistic choreography and realistic costumes focus on the appearance
and movement of the honeybee locally called buyog from where the towns name
originated.

Leyte Gulf Landings Anniversary A commemorative program which marks the

anniversary of the October 20, 1944 landing on Leyte of the Allied Forces of
Liberation.

KarisyohanhanPasko ha Palo It is a month long Christmas festival that starts on

Dec. 6 and ends on jan. 6. It is celebration to recall and preserve the beautiful and
old-fashioned Filipino traditions of celebrating Christmas. Misa de gallo, cultural
show and a Christmas eve choral concert at Palo Cathedral are oftenly organized
during this event in Leyte.
DELICACIES

Binagol- a mix of talyan (a local root crop), coconut milk, and sugar steamed inside
coconut shells

Moron - glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and flavored with cocoa.

Pastillas de leche - made from pure cows milk

Roscas - a traditional rusk bread especially baked by the women of Barugo. It is

made from egg yolk, wheat flour, milk, shortening, and flavored with anise seeds.
Special Interests:

Soak up the sun - Spend your day at

Kalanggaman Island, Canigao Island, and Cuatro Islas.

gorgeous

Try local flavors - Taste binagol and moron

Have an explosive picnic - Visit the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park.

SOUTHERN LEYTE
Capital:Maasin City

Location:
* North - Leyte

* South Bohol Sea

* East Surigao Strait
* West Canigao Channel

40 Municipalities

Population: 399,137 (as of 2010)

Area: 1799 km
People: Bisaya (Cebuano, Waray)
Languages: Cebuano, Waray-waray
Tourist Arrival: 30,495

History
As early as 1898, during the Spanish and American periods, some government
offices have already been established in Maasin on the southwestern part of Leyte.
Due to distance and difficulty in managing the affairs of the government in
Tacloban, local leaders proposed a bill in Congress to divide Leyte in to two
provinces. After several unsuccessful attempts to pass the bill, President Carlos P.
Garcia signed the bill into law on May 22, 1959 by virtue of Republic Act 2227,
creating the province of Southern Leyte. On July 1, 1960, Southern Leyte was
inaugurated as a province.
The discovery of the Philippines officially took place on March 28, 1521, the day
Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese navigator in the service of the Spanish crown,
landed on Limasawa.

Access to the Province

Air Three airlines operate regularly from Manila to Tacloban City
Land Ride a bus (about 4 hours) from Tacloban to Maasin
Sea- Ride a boat (5-6 hours) from Cebu to Maasin

Tourist Destinations

Limasawa Island Site of the celebration of the First Christian Mass in the Orient
when Ferdinand Magellan came in 1521; historical and cultural viewing of the
Magellan Shrine/Marker. It is also a divers paradise.

First Cross Monument - Going up the summit of the highest hill in Limasawa
which is around 450 steps, the first cross in the Philippines was planted in the
afternoon of March 31, 1521.

National Shrine of the First Mass in the Philippines -Located in Magallanes,

the National Shrine stands at the foot of the hill commemorating the first mass on
March 31, 1521 and the visit of Magellan to the island.

Malitbog One of the oldest towns in the province of Leyte which was once the
center of trade and commerce.

Bitu-On Beach White sandy beach; shells of various kinds and colors; good for
picnicking, swimming, fishing, and shell hunting.

Kuting Beach Resort Wide stretch of sandy beach; favorite site for swimming
and picnics.

Tancaan Point Concrete stairway leading to a watch tower overlooking the deep
sea and historic Limasawaisland; natural shades and picnic tables.

Guinsohotan and Busay Falls Clear waters good for swimming and picnicking.

Sulphur Spring Sulphur spring water believed to have curative powers.

San Pedro and San Pablo Beaches White coral beaches ideal for swimming
and surfing; can very well accommodate a variety of activities related to diving and
other water sports and recreation.

Monte Cueva - An interesting ingenuity of building on what nature has created.

This is a chapel built inside a cave, located on top of a hill. The hill overlooks the
city, and is also a great place to catch the sunset and enjoy the breeze.

Panaon Island The second deepest body of water in the world; one of the most
mystifying dive destinations in Southern Leyte. It is where one may encounter a
school of whales or dolphins.

Sun-ok Fish Sanctuary The underwater contour is actually a terrace full of

distinct coral formations inhabited by large species of fish.

Tabugon Fish Sanctuary The coastal town of Liloan, with its protective bay, also
has one of the biggest reef areas. Regularly visited by the biggest fish in the world,
the whale shark.

Sogod Bay -Sogod Bay is another option: it holds 350 of the worlds 500 coral
species, several sunken wrecks worth exploring, and the promise of sea turtles,
dolphins and whale sharks.

AgasAgas Bridge It is the tallest bridge in the Philippines. It was built to avoid
perennial landslides danger in the area during heavy rains.

Maasin Cathedral Catholic church situated in a beautiful park. Image and

santos whose art and architecture date back to the Spanish era are still found in
its altar and ceilings.
Festivals

SinulogsaMalitbog An annual religious street pageant celebrated as homage to

the Holy Child Jesus (Santo Nio)

Sinugdan Festival - This historic and religious event is commemorated with a

cultural presentation and anniversary program dubbed as Sinugdan (meaning
beginning).

Delicacies

Salvaro Chips A substitute healthy snack food, without preservative.

Banagan- A freshwater lobster that is abundant in their rivers, as their specialty. It

is usually served when it is already orange in color, crisp, and fresh from the stove

on special occasions such as barrio fiestas. It is more delicious when cooked in

Sprite beverage, which adds and enhances its flavor.

Ampaw It is commonly called rice puff. It is made of rice mixed with syrup (sugar
and water) and is dried under the sun, which makes it sweet and crispy. They have
the best ampaws in the province of Southern Leyte.

Budbud and Bingka - Other specialties in Southern Leyte are the budbud, a
sticky rice delicacy cooked with coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaves then
steamed; and bingka, a rice cake made with fire on its top and bottom. Both can be
found in Padre Burgos.

Bocarillo- A homemade sweet delicacy made of grated meat of young coconut or

ripe jackfruit, milk and sugar. It also comes in different flavors such as ube,
pineapple, durian, cheese, lemon, or anything you want to put in it if you will only
request.
Special Interests:

Into the deep - Go diving at Sogod Bay, Panaon Island and Kuting Reef.

Reflect - Visit the location of the first Christian mass at Limasawa Island.

S.W.O.T

Strength:

Weakness:

Has numerous outstanding

natural and historical attractions.

Theres only one major

airport in the region that serves
commercial flights.

Opportunities:

Threats:

There are several

potential power sources that can be
tapped for tourism development
projects.

Many parts of the region are

frequented by typhoons.