Leyte bears its significance in Philippine history through the many historic battles that took place here. Through the years the people of this province have struggled against tyranny and oppression. The many significant historical events that occurred place Leyte’s imprints on the halls of the country’s history.
Leyte’s Geography and Location
The province is located in the Eastern Visayas Region among the many islands of the Southern Philippines. Its capital is Tacloban and covers 75% of the island also known by the same name. To the east is the province of Samar while Southern Leyte is on the south. Biliran is up on the province’s northern boundary. The nearby province of Cebu is just across the Camotes Sea.
The province has three cities: Tacloban, Baybay, and Ormoc. 40 municipalities also join the said cities. Each city in the province acts independently of the present provincial government.
The eastern and western parts of Leyte Province experience different climates. The eastern side of the province experiences a lot of rainfall from November to January. Thus this side of the island has a wet and a dry season. The western side of the province has a more evenly distributed rainfall. Thus there is really no distinct wet or dry season within an entire year.
Annual Festivities and Sights
The province has a lot of festive celebrations scheduled for an entire year. One of the popular festivals in the province is the Kasadya-an Festivals, which is conglomeration of various festivals in one. The province’s different unique cultures are celebrated during these festivities. Local folklores and legends come to life as they are portrayed in dance and play.
The Leyte Gulf Landings Celebration marks the significant return of General Douglas MacArthur and the Allied Liberation forces. The event is highlighted by commemorations and the entire celebration is held on October of each year.
The Subiran Regatta Festival is a special event that water sports enthusiasts will enjoy. This fiesta is celebrated in Tacloban City on June of every year. Native sailboats, outriggers, and other sea going vessels engage in exciting races.
One interesting site to visit is the MacArthur Landing Memorial. Statues here reenact the landing of liberation forces in fulfillment of the general’s promise to return to the Philippines and liberate it from Japanese control. The Santo Niño Shrine is also another interesting sight to visit. It was built for former first lady Imelda Marcos who is also a native of the province.
The Marabut Marine Park will be well appreciated by those who love going out into the water. You’ll be served the best seafood while enjoying lush tropical waters and kayaking.
Leyte Accommodations
There are a number of accommodations in Leyte to suit and fit your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a place with a great view of the ocean in the morning then you may opt to stay in Leyte Park Hotel. If you want accommodations that are easy to reach then you can go for those along the national highway, which makes Olot Beach Resort a really good choice. If you’re on a shoestring budget then you can go for different pension houses like Rosvenil that will still give you decent accommodations.
Leyte has a lot of cultural, natural, and historic attractions for visitors to see. You’ll be treated to a mix of history and nature’s bliss as you explore the province. It has made its indelible mark in the country’s history.
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