Eastern Visayas (Filipino: Silangang Kabisayaan, Waray: Sinirangan Kabisay-

an; Cebuano: Sidlakang Kabisay-an) is anadministrative region in the Philippines, designated

as Region VIII. It consists of three main islands, Samar, Leyte and Biliran. The region has
six provinces, one independent city and one highly urbanized city [3] namely, Biliran, Leyte, Northern
Samar,Samar, Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, Ormoc and Tacloban. The highly urbanized
city of Tacloban is the Eastern Visayas Regional Center (EVRC). These provinces and cities occupy
the easternmost islands of the Visayas group of islands.

Eastern Visayas faces the Philippine Sea to the east. The region is known for its famous landmark,
the San Juanico Bridge, dubbed as the "Most Beautifully Designed and Longest Bridge in the
Philippines". As of 2015, the region has a population of 4,440,150 people.[2]

Geography[edit]
Eastern Visayas lies on the east central section of the Philippine archipelago. It consists of three
main islands, Leyte, Samar, and Biliran which form the easternmost coast of the archipelago. It is
bounded on the east and north by the Philippine Sea with the San Bernardino Strait separating
Samar island from southeastern Luzon; on the west by the Camotes and Visayan seas, and on the
south by the Bohol Sea with the Surigao Strait separating Leyte island from northwestern Mindanao.
It has a total land area of 2,156,285 hectares (5,328,300 acres) or 7.2% of the countrys total land
area.[4] 52% of its total land area are classified as forestland and 48% as alienable and disposable
land.
Climate[edit]
There are two types of climate prevailing in the region under the Corona system of classification:
Type II and Type IV. Type II climate is characterized by having no dry season but a pronounced
maximum rainfall from November to January. Samar Island and the eastern part of Leyte Island fall
under this type of climate. Type IV on the other hand has an even distribution of rainfall the year
round and a short period of dry season that can be observed starting February up to May. This type
of climate is well exhibited at the western half of Leyte island and some portion of Samar which
covers the municipality of Motiong up to San Isidro of Northern Samar.

In November 2013, the region was hit with the highest death toll in the country by Typhoon Haiyan,
the second deadliest typhoon ever to hit the Philippines.

Natural resources[edit]
The region's sea and inland waters are rich sources of salt and fresh water fish and other marine
products. It is one of the fish exporting regions of the country. There are substantial forest reserves
in the interiors of the islands. Its mineral deposits includechromite, uranium (in
Samar), gold, silver, manganese, magnesium, bronze, nickel, clay, coal, limestone, pyrite and sand
andgravel. It has abundant geothermal energy and water resources to support the needs of medium
and heavy industries

Languages[edit]
Waray-Waray is the lingua franca of the Eastern Visayas Region spoken on the island ofSamar,
Biliran, and Leyte. A Sama language, distantly related to the languages of the region,
called Abaknon is spoken in the island of Capul in Northern Samar. Cebuano is spoken in western
and southern parts of Leyte and in Southern Leyte. Other languages spoken in Eastern Visayas
are Baybayanon, a language related to Waray-waray, which is spoken in Baybay with 10,000
speakers and Kinabalian, which is spoken in the municipality of San Juan, Southern Leyte.

POLITICAL SUBDIVISION

Major Islands - Samar, Leyte & Biliran

Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Western Samar, Leyte,
Provinces -
Southern Leyte and Biliran
Tacloban, Ormoc, Maasin, Calbayog, Baybay, Catbalogan
Cities -
& Borongan
No. of Towns - 139
No. of Barangays - 4,390
Population as of Aug.
- 3,912,936
'07
Annual Pop. Growth
- 1.12
Rate
Population Density - 183 person/sq. km.
No. of Congressional
- 12
Districts

Eastern Visayas or Region VIII is one of the two regions of the Philippines having no land border
with another region, MIMAROPA being the other. It is composed of two main islands, Leyte and
Samar, connected by the famous San Juanico Bridge. It consists of six provinces namely, Biliran,
Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar, Southern Leyte.

Eastern Visayas directly faces the Pacific Ocean. The land area of the region is 2,156,285 hectares.
As of 2010, it has a population of 3,912,936.

There are 7 cities that helps the economy of the region grow stronger; these are:

1. Borongan City
2. Baybay City
3. Ormoc City
4. Tacloban City
5. Calbayog City
6. Catbalogan City
7. Maasin City

History

Borongan was just a small town back in 1600 and was called as Guiborongani. It was called on its
present name due to the heavy fog that usually covered the place.

Borongan developed because of the help of the religious missions established by the Jesuits during
the 1604-1768, and the Franciscans from 1768 to 1868.

During the Philippine Revoluton, Borongan served as the site for the uprisings of the Pulahanes.
Public officials were also first appointed in the place and was called as president and vice
president. Whe the Japanese left the country, the town was organized into a municipality, led by a
mayor and vice mayor. It was then made as the capital of Eastern Samar.

On June 21, 2007, Borongan became the first city in Eastern Samar.
Population/ Language/ Area
Borongan is bounded on the north by the municipality of San Julian, in the south by the municipality
of Maydolong; in the west by th Samar municipalities of Hinabanagan, Calbiga, Pinabacdao and
Basey; and in the east by the Pacific Ocean.

According tot he 2007 census conducted by the CBMS, the City of Borongan has a total population
of 59,354 people whose the majority of them speaks Waray-Waray as their common language.
Much of the population can speak Tagalog and English.

Products and Services

Borongan City has a wet market that sells foodstuffs like

rice and corn, grains, dried and fresh fish. These products
are mainly from the city itself and from the nearby towns.
There are also pork, beef, chicken, preserved meats,
vegetables, fruits, condiments and spices, root crops,
native cakes and others.

The place also sells locally-made and beautiful native

basketware. It also has the largest and the only shopping
mall in Eastern Samar. It opened in 2005 for business
operations and is located along the national highway in Brgy. Songco at the northern fringe of the
city. Appliance stores, mini-groceries and sari-sari stores also abound throughout the length and
breadth of the city selling items ranging from basic necessities to supplies for recreational and
entertainment activities. Several hardware stores also operate catering to the needs of the citys
construction industry. The city has numerous restaurants and eateries offering local cuisine
randomly located throughout the city limits while nightspots can be found mostly along the length of
Baybay Blvd. at the eastern edge of the city immediately abutting the shoreline of Borongan Bay.
Major and new oil companies have their own oil refueling stations within the city limits selling engine
lubricants, kerosene as well as regular, unleaded and premium gasoline and diesel fuels.

Business Opportunity

Borongans main product is copra. It has lively commercial activity throughout the year not only
catering to the needs of the local city populace but serving as well as the central business hub of the
entire province of Eastern Samar. Many families rely on coastal and deep-sea fishing as well as
lowland and upland farming as means of livelihood.
Tourist Spots

Borongan City has many of the Philippines most wonderful natural attractions from resorts to
beautiful white- as well as black-sand beaches. Its pristine and undisturbed forests contain
spectacular streams, river rapids, waterfalls and caves so very sought after by nature lovers,
trekkers and spelunkers locals and foreign visitors alike. Many more of its scenic spots can be
found by those who have the time and the energy to search for them within the vast, idyllic territorial
expanse of the city.

The City of Baybay is a component city in Leyte province, Philippines. It is situated in the western
part of Leyte coast. It is bounded by Camotes Sea on the west; Albuera on the north; Inopacan on
the south; Burauen, La Paz and MacArthur on the northeast; Javier on the east; and Abuyog and
Mahaplag on the southeast.

History

Some claim that Baybay was the only settlement on the western coast of Leyte known to the first
Spanish conquistadors that came with Magellan. The settlement became a place for religious
organizations such as the Jesuits andAugustinians. Places of worship and schools were erected in
the place, to own the hearts of the people. The people responded in a positive way and accepted the
religious teachings of these organizations and others that followed.
Baybay, aside from those religious friars, also became a place of interest for those hoping to invade
the place. The Chinese attempted to conquer the community, but the brave and staunch
natives foiled several attempts. The Moro came next. On October 22, 1605, these Moro raided
the place. The pirates left countless dead and carried almost 60 men as captives. And again, on
November 4, 1663, the Moros under the dreaded Corralat left many of the people dead and took
much of them as captives after mercilessly killing those men who tried to defend the town, even with
the aid of the parish priests.
The administration of Baybay continued to be in the Spanish conquistadors. However, in the early of
1898 the whole place, including the administration of it were handled to the locals as part of granting
the Philippines its independence.

After that and throughout the years, Baybay continued to develop and became one of the biggest
towns in Leyte.

Population/ Language/ Area

It has a Type 4 climate, which is generally
wet. Its topography is generally
mountainous in the eastern portion as it
slopes down west towards the shore line.
According to the 2010 census, it has a
population of 102,841 people. Also, it is the
2nd largest city after Ormoc City in the
province in terms of land area. Before,
Baybay was the biggest town in Leyte in
terms of land area. Covering an area of 46,050 hectares (459.3 km2), Baybay is composed of 92
barangays, 23 of which are in the poblacion, with one barangay jointly located. The remaining 68 are
rural barangays.

Products and Services

Generally an agricultural city, the common
means of livelihood are farming and fishing.
Some are engaged in hunting and in forestal
activities. The most common crops grown are
rice, corn, abaca, root crops, fruits, and
vegetables. Various cottage industries can also
be found in Baybay such as bamboo and rattan
craft, ceramics, dress-making, fiber craft, food
preservation, mat weaving, metal craft, Philippine furniture manufacturing and other related
activities.
Tourist Spots
Jungle Valley Park

Bakwitan Falls

Festivals and Celebrations

Binaybayon Festival celebrated every 27th day of December, this serves as the citys festival. This is
being hel for the honor of their Patroness, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. This festival also shows
the rich history of the city and the main livelihood.

Halaran Festival celebrated every October in honor for the Holy Rosary. Also shows the history of
Brgy. Rosario.

Sirong Festival celebrated by Brgy. Pomponan every 13th day of June for Saint Anthony Padua. The
history of the place is shown in this festival.

Ormoc City is a 1st class city in the Leyte province, Philippines. It is the first non-provincial city of the
Philippines. It is also the economic, cultural, commercial and transportation hub of western Leyte. The city is
also an independent component city, which is not subject to regulation form the Provincial Government of
Leyte. Even though it is an independent city, it is still art of the IV Congressional District of Leyte together
with Albuera, Kamanga, Merida and Isabel Leyte.

History

It is believed that Ormoc was first called as Ogmok by the natives of the town before. The place was used
during the Spanish occupation and the migration of the neighboring towns to settle in the more fertile plains of
Ogmok. Much of the settler in the town were the Malayans. These people had a constant trading with the
Chinese, Javans and Indonesians. Their living, however, was always threatened by the attack of the Moro
pirates. It is said that the people in Ogmok developed a warning system communication through people
manning watch towers to inform and warn the people of the coming of these pirates.

July 16, 1595, Jesuit missionaries arrived in Leyte. On May 1507, a mission in Ormok was established by
these missionaries. That year, the locals were converted to Christianity. Their years of peace was shortly felt
when in year 1634, a ruler of Sulu by the name of Raja Bungsu captured 300 natives form Ormoc after the
invasion of the notorious pirates in the town. The towns of Sogod, Kabalian, Inopacan and Baybay were also
invaded and plundered. More locals of Ogmok still fought this Raja and his men but because they were
outnumbered, they were massacred up to the last man.

In the year 1950, Ormoc City transformed into modern infrastructures, wide concrete roads and bridges, well-
equipped government and hospital facilities, airport facilities, banks, commercial and trade establishments,
house projects, factories, industrial plants, thus, the start of progress for this city.

Population/ Language/
Area
Ormoc City is a port city and is the largest city in
Leyte by land area and the second largest in Eastern
Visayas after Calbayog City in Samar. Fronting
Ormoc Bay, the citys terrain is mostly of gently
rolling plains. It is bounded on the northwest by the
towns of Matag-ob and Merida, in the north by
Kananga, in the northeast by the towns of Jaro,
Pastrana and Dagami, and in the south by the town of Albuera. High mountain ranges separate Ormoc from the
eastern portion of Leyte. Numerous rivers and streams traverse Ormoc. Among them are the Bao River in the
north, Pagsangahan River in the west, the Bagong-bong River in the south, the Panilahan River also in the
south and the Anilao and Malbasag Rivers which border the eastern and western flanks of Ormoc City Proper.

The people of Ormoc are called Ormocanons and the native language used is Cebuano (or Kana). The
townsfolk relate more to neighboring towns and Cebu than to eastern Leyte. According to 2010 population
census, the city is being inhabited by 191,200 people, all living is a total land area of 613.6 km2 (236.9 sq mi).

Products and Services

Ormoc City serves as the center for commerce and industry in Leyte. It has an organized industry in
geothermal energy, suga-based alcohol and industrial gases. Its fertile soil is used as fishing ground, as most
of the people are engaging in fishing and farming. Products that the city provides include cut flowers, dry
goods, metal crafts, processed foods, crafts, novelty items, decors and furniture. Sugarcane, rice, pineapple,
wood crafts, corn, fish, coconut, abaca and coco handicrafts, vegetables, root crops and livestock serves as the
citys major local products.

Tourist Spots

Leyte Golf and Country Club this golf course is surrounded by mountains and rolling hills. This golfing
resort covers 80 hectares of terrain situated on a plateu with plams, coconut, fruit-bearing trees and
flowering shrubs. This is located just 7 kilometers aways from Ormoc City.

Pineapple Plantation the city is famous for its pineapples with a distinct sweetness. This is a 210
hectares, located in the north of Hibunayon and Kananga communities. Visitors usually buy bundles of
this famous product as pasalubong or gifts to their loved ones and friends.

Tongonan Hot Springs National Park the geothermal power plant which supplies electricity to the
whole region is located in this valley. Recreational activities are provided for the visitors such as boating,
swimming, camping, trekking, biking, picnic and scientific studies.

Festivals and Celebrations

Buyogan Festival this is celebrated every August. Main attractions include the colorful costumes worn
by the residents of Buyogan, a small town in Ormoc. This festival is named from buyog or bees, which is
also the center of this event. Dance competitions are part of this festivals wherein the participants used to
imitate the movement of the bees.
Sunduan ha Carigana this is celebrated every Holy Week, where the main event is during the Eastern
Sunday. The focus of this event is to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Recreational
activities are conducted. At least one member of family of the locals are invited to join the recreational
activities provided. Tourist are also much welcomed to join.

History

Tacloban was first known as Kankabatok, an

allusion to the first inhabitants of the place
Kabatok. They established their dwelling in the
vicinity of the present day Sto. Nio church.
Others who came later were Gumoda, Haraging and Huraw who erected their own settlements in
nearby sites. Huraws domain is the hill where the city hall now sits. The combined settlements
acquired the name Kankabatok, meaningKabatoks property.
By the end of the 16th century, Kankabatok was under the political administration of Palo and part of
the parish of Basey, Samar. It was discovered in 1770, by the Augustinian Mission, who were
superseded by the Franciscans in 1813. During this period, Kankabatok was renamed to Tacloban.

Population/Language/ Area
According to the 2010 census, tacloban City has a population of 221, 174. These people speaks
Waray, officially named as Lineyte-Samarnon. The place is culturally and linguistically diverse. Most
of its residences are Iberian and some has Spanish-Filipino blood. Foreigners such as Spanish and
Chinese mestizos also make up these population.

Total land area is 201.72 km2 (77.88 sq mi).

Products and Services

Tacloban is the economic center of Eastern Visayas region, with an economy largely focused on
commerce, tourism, education, culture, and government in the region. Several regoinal broadcasters
are based in the city, including ABS-CBN.

Business Opportunity

Tacloban City is the largest urban center in Eastern Visayas. As such, the city is perfect for
investment opportunities to mass housing projects, food establishments, fish canning and
processing, furniture making, financial services and technology-related businesses.

Tourist Spots

San Juanico Park Golf and Country Club this is an 18-hole course located at 10 kilometers north of
Tacloban.

Balyu-an Amphitheater this amphitheater is located along the shores of Cancabato Bay. Various
musical, cultural, social and religious performances and gatherings are usually held here.
 Sto. Nio Shrine and Heritage Museum is a showcase of Filipino ingenuity. Displayed are collections
of art objects, priceless furnitures, fine procelain and ivory sculptures from within the country and
abroad.

Calvary Hill placed in this hill is the larger-than-life statues of Jesus Christ and other personages, in
tableaux, depicting the Christs sacrifice and sufferings. From the hill, a view of the whole city can be
seen.

San Juanico Bridge this is an S-shaped span of bridge connecting the islands of Leyte and Samar. This
bridge expands up to 2.16 kilometers.

Festivals and Celebrations

Sangyaw Festival is a religious and socio-cultural event in the Philippines. It was revived in 2008 by
the city government of Tacloban, Philippines. Sangyaw means to herald news in Waray language.
Various festival-participants from different parts of the country participate in this tribal procession.

Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival The Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival is a merry-making event lasting a whole

month, highlights of which include the Leyte Kasadyaan Festival of Festivals, the 17th Pintados Festival
Ritual Dance Presentation and the Pagrayhak Grand Parade.

History

Calbayogs early history has been associated with the introduction and spread of Catholicism in the
country. Calbayog started as one of the small settlements in the Island of Samar, an area assigned
to the Jesuit missionaries. Jesuit chroniclers, as early as the 17th century, notably Fr. Ignacio Alcina,
wrote many accounts about it and its people. Jesuit records and reports referred to the settlement
initially as Ibatan and Jibatang (Hibatang). In the annual report of 1739 the name Calbayog
appeared for the first time. Fr. de Huerta, a 19th century Franciscan writer, noted in his work Estado
Geografico that in earlier times, Calbayog was called Tiayban for having been founded near a river of
the same name. Then it was transferred due to a flood to the shore of the Hibatang River, whose
name it took. Then again the settlers transferred to the place that they permanently occupied and
took the name Calbayog.
Hibatang had already been a small settlement at the beginning of the 17th century. It slowly
occupied a prominent place among the several small settlements. It became a visita (a large barrio
with a chapel) of Capul under the jurisdiction of the Parish priest of that town. After the expulsion of
the Jesuit missionaries from the Philippines in the 18th century, the administration of the parishes in
Samar was handled over to the Franciscan friars.
Calbayog as a town and parish during the Spanish period was composed of several villages, the
most populated of which are called visitas. Calbayog grew from visita size and became a pueblo
(town). It was created a separate parish in 1785. Separated from the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the
parish priest of Capul, it was later given its own minister, becoming a religious center. Its parish
priests cared for the spiritual needs of the people living in what are now Calbayog City, the
municipalities of Sta. Margarita, Sto. Nio and Almagro. By the late 19th century a number of visitas
became the poblaciones when new towns were created from Calbayog. They were Caybago (later
called Oquendo), Sta. Margarita, Weyler (later called Tinambacan) and Sto. Nio.

Population/ Language/ Area

Calbayog City had a total population of 172, 778 as of 2010.

The city has a total land area of 90,300 hectares which is .301% of the archipelagos total land area,
4.21% of the regional land area, 6.724% of the island of Samar, and 16.10% of the Samar province
area. Forty percent of the citys land area are plain and hilly terrains with elevation ranging from 5 to
20 meters above sea level. The rest are rugged mountain ranges with elevations from 300 to 700
meters above sea level located beyond 21 km. Northeast of the city proper. Flooding is minimized
because of many rivers, brooks, streams and natural water conveyors that flow towards the sea.

Products and Services

Agriculture is the main economic activity in the city, aside from the wholesale and retail trading which
are mostly concentrated in the center of the city. Main agriculture products includes abaca, rice,
corn, root crops, vegetables, livestock and poultry. Fishing is also the source of livelihood for those
living near the coastal areas. There is a ten hectare mari-culture park which is now a major employer
and producer of fish products.

Business Opportunity

The city offers opportunities in agribusiness and food processing especially sweets, meat and fish
processing. Producing items from abaca and coconut is a priority. The manufacture of furniture,
clothing and fashion accessories, jewelry, personal care and other consumer goods are encouraged.
The establishment of commercial complexes and tourist facilities are welcomed in this city.

Tourist Spots
 Saints Peter and paul Cathedral this cathedral as constructed in 1800s and is now the central church of
the Diocese of Calbayog. This is also considered as the biggest church in Samar. The structure reveals
some of the old structures of the Spanish architecture. The old dome, the spire and the thick walls are
some of the old structures that can be found in the church.

Handumanan Museum used formerly as a jail but was renovated with a 2-storey 19th century Filipino
building look. This museum houses much of the citys history. This is also the regular host of art exhibits
in the city.

Guinogo-an Cave its large entrance leads to a natural tunnel with an uneven ceiling, some portions
touching ones head giving him an eerie trip through the dark, cool interior.

Mapaso Hot Spring Mapaso means hot. This hot spring is abundant in crustaceans (pokot). They are
naturally pinkish resembling scaled shrimps due to the high temperature.

Tabokno Falls this is a beautiful scenic falls is a wonderful picnic site of local residents and their source
of potable water.

Pan-as Falls more than a beauty spot, this falls is the primary source of water for its residents. At places
where the cataract is so high, the water falling into the pool becomes a mere mist.

Ton-ok Falls a scenic waterfalls hidden in lush tropical vegetation. Nature has places it out of easy
reach to preserve its beauty. This is also the source of hydroelectric power.

Festivals and Celebrations

Sarakiki-Hadang Festival (September 1 to 8) this is a festival shows the merriment in the evening
before awedding ceremony, which redound to one of the most well-liked tradition, the so
called pamalaye or pamamanhikan.
Karakol (either on January 27 or every last Sunday of October) this is a less popular but a more
traditional celebration of the folks from Brgy. Matobato about merry dancing at the shortes bearing the
image of Nuestra Seora de Porta Vaga, more popularly known as Soleda.
History

The original name of the Catbalogan was Katbalaugan or Kabalaugan. It was first organized by the priests of
the Jesuits Order or the Society of Jesus sometime in October 1596. On the first decades of the Spanish
colonization of the country, Samar was under the jurisdiction of Cebu. Later, it was declared as a separate
province. In 1735, Samar and Leyte were united into one province with Cariaga, in Leyte, as the capital. But
the union did not prove satisfactory. In 1768, Catbalogan City became the provincial capital when Samar
separated from Leyte and became an independent province.
From the colonization of Spaniards to the governance of Americans and to the oppressions of the Japanese
troops, Catbalogan suffered much. Even though there were little developments when it comes to economy and
infrastructures, the natives still hoped for the freedom they have been longing for. As early as 1960,
Catbalogan already agitated to become a city. On March 15, 2007, Catbalogan finally attained its cityhood.

Population/ Language/ Area

Catbalogan City has a total population of 274.22 km2 (105.88 sq mi). The city is bounded on the north by the
towns of Tarangan and San Jorge, on the east by Jiabong, on the south by Maqueda Bay, and on the west by
Samar Sea. Most of land areas are rural. Topography is characterized by hills and mountains except for some
narrow coastal plains.

Products and Services

Catbalogans economy is agricultural although wholesale and retail trading dominate the economic activities in
the poblacion. Rice, coconut, abaca, rootcrops and vegetables are the main farm outputs. Fishing is an
important industry in the coastal barangays. Aside from fish, other marine products include seaweed, mollusk,
oyster, crabs and shells. Fishing areas are mostly concentrated within Maqueda bay and Samar Sea.

Business Opportunity

The city offers opportunities in food processing especially meat and fish processing. The manufacture of
furniture, clothing and fashion accessories, jewelry, personal care and other consumer goods are encouraged.
The establishment of commercial complexes and tourist facilities are welcomed in this city.
Tourist Spots

Pieta Park is located to St. Bartholomew Church and St. Marys College of Catbalogan. It has a
memorial honoring Catbaloganons and more than four thousand others who perished in the December
1987 tragic collision of the passenger ship MV Doa Paz and the oil tanker MT Vector. Historians
describe the Doa Paz tragedy not only as the worlds worst ferry disaster but also the worst peace-time
maritime disaster in history.

The Obelisk is located at the heart of Catbalogan Citys Samar Provincial Capitol Park. It depicts four
major events in the history of Samar: the 1901 Balangiga Encounter that saw local revolutionaries
inflicting the worst single defeat of the Americans during the Philippine-American War (1899-1902),
the 1649 Agustin Sumoroy Rebellion in Palapag against the Spaniards, the October 15, 1596 arrival of
the first Jesuit missionaries to Samar, and Queen Isabella II of Spain carrying a Royal Decree of August
11, 1841 declaring Samar as an independent province.

Burii Baras Cove Beach resort located on Buri Island, it is 12 km from the city proper. The beach has a
long stretch and is ideal for swimming and diving.

Festivals and Celebrations

The Manaragat Festival held during the annual August month-long Fiesta celebration (August 131), the
Manaragat Festival is a tribute to the fishermen of Catbalogan City. Local fishermen share their catch of fish
and other marine products which they trade in the market. The Manaragat is a festive dance characterized by
varied movements and intricate steps of the different species of fish and sea shells inhabiting Maqueda Bay
and beautifully presented by dancers in exotic and colorful costumes. The Manaragat Festival of Catbalogan
City honors its Patron Saint, St. Bartholomew, every 24 August. St. Bartholomew, the miraculous Saint, is
believed by the local folks to have maintained the richness of Maqueda Bay as the major fishing ground of the
province of Samar.

Kaadlawan Han Samar (Samar Day) is celebrated every August 11. It marks the celebration of Samars
Foundation Day. The festival is participated by the provinces two cities and twenty-five municipalities and
includes cultural dance competitions, Mutya Han Samar Pilipinas (Miss Samar Philippines) beauty pageant,
agro-fisheries trade fair and civic-military parade.
History
One of the oldest towns in Southern Leyte is Maasin, nowadays called Maasin City. Little is known
about its pre-Spanish existence. When the Spanish missionaries became active in their missions,
they discovered that the Maasin community was already organized, with its people friendly and
interested in embracing the Catholic faith. The community was formally established as a parish by
the missionaries of the Society of Jesus in the 18th century and was called nipa. This was
authenticated by a piece of stone from a long destroyed convent that bears the inscription: Pa. De
Tagnipa ao 1776.

The town grew rapidly in the 18th century after the Jesuit priests built the first church of which ruins
still exists today between the two districts of Abgao and Mantahan. The Jesuit administration
prevailed from 1700 through 1768. Subsequently, Augustinian fathers took over the parish from
1768 to 1843 during which the townspeople, with the guidance of the Spanish ecclesiastical
authorities, built the towns second concrete church located approximately one kilometer away from
the ruins of the first one. The church stands to this day.

The arrival of the Americans at the beginning of the 20th century and the suppression of all
resistance to the American rule stopped all dreams of Philippine independence. However, the
epoch-making announcement of President McKinley that the Philippines was not theirs to exploit but
to train in the art of self-government and independence brough about new hope for the Filipinos.
True to their word, the Americans instituted in this country their democratic institutions. Maasin was
one of the beneficiaries of this enlightened American policy. Schools were established; businesses
began to uprise and prosper; and, Maasin became the most progressive town in southwestern Leyte
(and still is).

Population/ Language/ Area

With the recent census, the city reached a total population of 81,737 with the people speaking
Cebuano and Boholano as their native language.

The province has a total land area of approximately 173,480 hectares characterized by flat lands
along the coastal areas and mountainous towards the interior. Additionally, the land has numerous
small and major rivers.

Products and Services

Maasin City has a thriving food processing industry producing macapuno tarts, pickled vegetables,
processed meat, virgin coconut oil, banana chips, and other delicacies.

Business Opportunity

The city offers opportunities in food processing especially fruit, vegetables, meat and fish
processing. The manufacture of furniture, clothing and fashion accessories, jewelry, personal care
and other consumer goods are encouraged. The establishment of commercial complexes and tourist
facilities are welcomed in this city.

Tourist Spots

Maasin Cathedral this church was built in the 1 7th century. This is probably not only the biggest but
also the oldest church in Maasin City. It is a diocesan seat since 1968. It shares its history with Don
Anatalio Gaviola Plaza which is dedicated to a former mayor of Maasin. It is still one of the highly
recommended stumping points for tourists as well as for locals.

The Guinsohotan Cave is a large subterranean cave, 15 km from the city center and 276 meters above
sea level. Those who enter the cave by wadding or swimming can find small in-cave waterfalls, bats,
and impressive rock formations. The water coming out of Guinsuhotan Cave flows down in cascades
forming a natural lagoon.

Abiera Museo dArt shows rare collections of artifacts, antiques, paintings, preserved animals, coins,
gems, and other historical relics. Although it is privately owned by the Abiera Family, it can be visited by
interested ones. It is located at Barangay Tunga-tunga in the heart of the city.