Local Philippines: Better Leyte Than Never

By Author: Allan Leandro Merin
Total Articles: 48
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Leyte is one of the exquisite travel destinations that are often missed out by holidaymakers in the Philippines. Perhaps they are not well-informed about the natural beauty and the rich history of this island province. To lure more tourists, the local government officials have been stepping up efforts to place Leyte on the tourism map.

Covering an area of 5,712.8 square kilometers, Leyte is subdivided into 41 municipalities and three cities. The province is one of the history-rich places in the country. It was one of the first to welcome and revolt against the Spanish colonizers. Leyte, the home of the Waray people, was also the site of what is considered the largest naval battle in modern history.

Expert travelers say Leyte is not a very touristy area. Its beaches are not that quintessential but quite decent enough for vacationers seeking to escape the city noise and pollution. Leyte has its own share of sublime festivals featuring its rich culture and heritage. Once you discover the beauty of Leyte, it won't be surprising that you will mimic Gen. Douglas ...
... MacArthur's famous lines I shall return.

Here are some of the attractions that will surely get you hooked to Leyte.

San Juanico Bridge
San Juanico Bridge, the longest in the Philippines, connects Tacloban City on the Leyte side and the town of Sta. Rita on the Samar side. Built over San Juanico Strait, this 2,200-metre structural wonder crossing was completed in 1973. Have your camera ready when crossing this USD 21.9-million marvel, as there are lots of picturesque views from the bridge. San Juanico Bridge, which is designed by Juanito Isko Balunbalunan, is accessible by private and public utility vehicles such as buses and jeepneys.

MacArthur Landing Memorial
Travel down memory lanes by visiting the MacArthur Landing Memorial in Palo, Leyte. Situated in Red Beach, the monument marks the spot where MacArthur returned to the Philippines along with the American Liberation Forces in 1944. Tourists can take souvenir photos of larger-than-life statue of the great American general and his men.

Pintados Festival
Pintados Festival is one of the most colorful festivals in the Philippines. Held every 29th day of June in Tacloban, the cultural-religious celebration is based on the body-painting traditions of ancient tattooed warriors called pintados. The festival is celebrated in honor of Sr. Sto. Niño. It is highlighted by a street dancing participated by residents across Leyte.

Palo Metropolitan Cathedral
Constructed by Augustinian friars in 1596, Palo Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the famous churches in Leyte. During World War II, the cathedral was used as a hospital of the American Liberation Forces. Palo Metropolitan Cathedral, which is located right across the municipal building, is also popular for its modern gothic design.

White Beach
White Beach is perfect for tourists looking for a place to swim their sorrows away. Located around eight kilometers away from Tacloban, this body of water is tailor-made for boating, skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water recreation activities. There cottages and resorts located near White Beach, making it a perfect venue for family outings and vacations.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.