The city of Tacloban in Leyte, Philippines, to the frequent visitor, knows it is filled with a lot of appealing sightseeing spots. For those who have yet to visit the place, it does contain a lot of interesting places, but it would be best if you knew something about the city and surroundings first.
Geography, Population and Climate
The climate in the city is in many ways similar to those of the other areas in the country. The cold months start in December and ends in February, around the middle part of the month. The summer season is from March to May while the rest of the year it is wet. Geographically speaking, it is situated around Cancabato Bay, which is near the San Juanico Strait. It is at the third district of Leyte.
A national census taken in 2007 puts the population at just over 200,000. The language of the people here is mostly Waray (known as Lineyte-Samarnon). The land area is about 200 sq. km.
History
Originally known as Kankabatok, the area was sighted by the Augustinians in the early 1770s, and under the Franciscans, the place was renamed Tacloban in 1813. In 1830 it became the capital city of Leyte.
The year 1942 saw the city besieged and occupied by the Japanese Army. The Allied Forces, composed of American and Filipino soldiers, came back in 1944 and in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, emerged victorious. This would eventually lead to the liberation not just of Tacloban but the whole province. Since that period, the city has grown and today is highly urbanized.
Economy and Transport
For several years now, the city has been experiencing an economic boom, and there are now several businesses there. The success of the city as a commercial and business center can be seen in the numerous hotels, restaurants offices and banks that line up the streets. Most of the people that live here work in the offices. With tourism on the rise, there are now several shopping stores that you can visit selling souvenirs as well.
Another sign of the economic progress of the city are the various types of transport now available. There are jeepneys, tricycles and also rental cars all around.
Tourist Attractions
One of the most popular tourist attractions in the city is the CAP building, which was built sometime in the early 1900s; the Redona Residence, which former President Osmena used to call home, is another interesting site. Other places of interest are the Palo Metropolitan Cathedral, the People’s Center and Library and Hill 120.
There are also several beautiful islands around it, including Panaon Island. Among the most breathtaking dive sites are the Bonga Bend, Liloan and the Cuatros Islas. Mahaba Island is also well known for being the site of a number of coral reefs and colorful fishes.
This progressive city is often used as a starting point by tourists who want to see and experience the best that Leyte has to offer. Whether you are coming to visit or do business, or both, there is no better way to do it than by being informed and aware of some general information on Tacloban, Philippines.
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