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Visayas History- Places- Culture- Marketing

Readings in Philippine History (Lyceum of the Philippines University)

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REGION 6 Land Area 20,794.18 km2 (8,028.68 sq mi)

WESTERN VISAYAS Location Western Visayas consists of the major island of Panay and
the smaller Guimaras, as well as several outlying islands. It
also includes the western half of the larger island of Negros.
The region is bordered to the north by the Sibuyan Sea,
northeast by the Visayan Sea, east by the province of
Negros Oriental in Central Visayas, south by the Iloilo
Strait and the Panay Gulf, and west by the Sulu Sea.
Population (as of year) (2015 census) 7,536,383
Provinces • Aklan
• Antique
• Capiz
• Guimaras
• Iloilo
• Negros Occidental
Capital of Provinces • Kalibo
• San Jose de Buenavista
• Roxas City
• Jordan
• Iloilo City
• Bacolod City
Religion Christianity: 85%, Roman Catholic, 2%, Aglipayan, 1%
Evangelicals, Remaining 5% belongs to United Church of
Christ in the Philippines, Iglesia ni Cristo, 8% Sunni Islam,
Animism and other religions
Dialect • Aklanon/Akeanon
• Capiznon
• Cebuano
• Hiligaynon
• Kinaray-a
• Malaynon
• Caluyanon
Transportation and • Exterior of Kalibo International Airport
Accessibility • Kalibo International Airport
• Iloilo International Airport
• Panay Railways

TOURISM PROFILE
Visitor Arrivals: 5.6 million visitors

I. Aklan

HISTORY

On November 8, 1956 Aklan became a separate province under Republic Act No. 1414
having Kalibo as its capital. It was a part of Capiz province on the island of Panay in Western Visayas
making its history close enough and more alike as what Capiz has. Settlers from Borneo are believed to
have been settled in the 12th century in the islands of Aklan. Aklan then became a part of the Kedatuan of
Madja-as. Datu Kalantiaw's grandson and successor in 1433, Datu Kalantiaw III formulated and wrote a
set of laws known today as the Code of Kalantiaw. His dynasty ended when he was killed in battle with
the tribes of Datu Manduyog. Datu Manduyog then was undefeated and several datus came over him until
Miguel López de Legazpi, a Spanish explorer, landed in Batan in 1565 and finally defeated him. Later on
Japanese invaded Aklan in 1942 and in 1945, World War II began. Combined Filipino and American
army finally liberated and made Aklan an independent island. It was formally declared an independent
province signed by Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay by that day of April 25, 1956 through

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Republic Act No. 1414 and it was separated from the island of Capiz. José Raz Menez was the first
governor of Aklan declared and served the government until December 30, 1959. Then in 1960,
Godofredo P. Ramos became the first elected governor wherein he then succeeded for being the vice
governor.

PLACES
• White beach (Boracay)
• D’mall de boracay
• Mounth luho
• The Philippines' Hidden Pearl Sits Right Beside Its Most Famous Island.

CULTURE
• Ati-Atihan – celebrated in part of Kalibo and was to celebrate the treaty between the
Ati and the Malayan tribes who settled in the Island before in history where they live
before in the mountain regions and the Malay people in the flatlands or close to the
water.
• Bariw Festival – unique festival showcasing the skills of every Nabasnon in weaving
bags, mats and hats made of bariw leaves and is celebrated every May 14 of the year.
• Bugna Festival – festival showcasing the different locally produced products and
eco-tourism destinations of Tangalan and is celebrated every May 16 of the year.
• Kali-Ugyon Festival (kali stands for Kalipayan or happiness and Ugyon meaning
"unity") – celebrated in Libacao every December 30 to January 1.
• Aklanons are known for their literature, which includes the epic of Kalantiao. Certain
Aklanons, such as Melchor F. Cichon, Roman Aguirre, have produced several
notable literary works in the province.
• Inubaran, a Filipino chicken stew or soup made with chicken cooked with diced
banana pith, coconut milk (gata) or coconut cream (kakang gata), a souring agent,
lemongrass, and various spices and binakol, a Filipino chicken soup made from
chicken cooked in coconut water with grated coconut, green papaya (or chayote),
leafy vegetables, garlic, onion, ginger, lemongrass, and patis (fish sauce) are t main
dishes associated with Aklan and Aklanons.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

Aklan Provincial Tourism Office (APTO) and the Aklan Tourism Officers Association
(AKTOA) conducted their Tourism Week Celebration 2019 to develop the province’ tourism
and promote it which is also being highlighted with the theme, “TOURISM AND JOBS: A
BETTER FUTURE FOR ALL” held from September 20-27. World Tourism Day is also done
in the same month. There are different activities including Tourism Insurance Summit and
Tinda Tourism Exhibit held at the Boracay Island, Sabor Akean Cooking Challenge at
Paradise Garden Resort Hotel, Boracay Island. Other activities also included Youth Speak
Express, Photography Competition, Tourism Quiz Bee, Filipino Brand of Service (FBS)
Excellence Training, and opening program of LGU Balete Photo Exhibit nd Bonsai Expo for
tourists and visitors fit for the young and teens, for them not just to enjoy the province itself
but to also experience its culture and history with the help of these activities. Furthermore,
they also added Aklanon Film Showing and familiarization tours for tourists in the province.

II. Antique

HISTORY
Antique is one of the four provinces that occupy Panay Island and can be found in the
Western Visayas. Its name was derived from the native word 'hantique,' which means large
red ants. The earliest people who settled on the island of Panay are whom they call Negritos or
Atis. In oral history, "Maragtas" states that ten "datus" or minor tribal Malay chieftains
escaped persecution from a city called Odtohan from Borneo due to a tyrant ruler called
Makatunaw and nevertheless, it is also considered as part of the local history of the people. On
Malay datus arrival, he offered Ati chieftain Datu Marikudo and his wife Maniwantiwan the

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chieftain a salakot (wide-brimmed hat). In respond to his generosity and warm welcoming
gifts, Datu Marikudo gave Malayans the lowlands in which they moved in. The island was
before named Hantik and was named for the large black ants found on the island called
"hantik-hantik" then later became Antique. Between years of 1944 and 1945, Commonwealth
forces and the 6th and 62nd Infantry Division of the Philippine Commonwealth Army finally
defeated the Japanese troops and colony and finally liberated the province. The first ever
Philippine rice terraces in 2014 were found outside the Cordilleras and were discovered in
Antique. It was discovered through a help of a satellite and a team of scientists and locals in
the province. It is known as the Antique Rice Terraces of the Panay-Bukidnon people and is
200 years old.

PLACES
• Mt. Igmatongtong.
• Malumpati Cold Spring.
• Malalison Island.
• Bugtong Bato Falls.
• Tibiao River.

CULTURE
• People from Antique are known to be very hospitable and warm welcoming and they
are known of their polite extend of assistance to guests and visitors. Just like most of
their Panay neighbours, they also do seafaring. Antique is home to the indigenous
Iraynun-Bukidnon people that are believed have crafted the only rice terrace clusters
in the Visayas.
• Binirayan festival – "Binirayan" biray, or "sailboat" in Kinaray-a. It is a week-long
festival that includes colorful street parades, beach shows, plaza concerts, a beauty
contest and trade fair

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

DOT or the Department of Tourism has made a marketing strategy under
its regional office's promotional campaign for Antique which entitled
"Experience Western Visayas First," which focuses on attracting Panay
Island’s local community itself.

III. Capiz

HISTORY

In pre-Spanish times, Capiz was part of Aklan and was one of Malays’ settlements before
the coming of the Spaniards to the Philippines. In 1566, Spaniards started to settle and set foot in the
mouth of Banica River. First settlements were seen in the town of Pan-ay. Pan-ay was originally called
"Bamban" where Spaniards later change its name to "Panay", meaning "mouth of the river." In 1569,
Spaniards led by Miguel López de Legazpi came to Panay from Cebu, there they found people with
tattoos leading them to call the island Isla de los Pintados. Later in 1569, Legazpi sent Captain Diego
de Artieda to land in the Town of Panay and make it as the capital of the province but then they later
discovered the town of Capiz (not the province, and now Roxas City). In 1716, the province was
created a separate encomienda and by virtue of Act 115, the establishment of a civil government in
Capiz took over by the Americans on April 15, 1901. During 1942, Japanese troops occupied the
province and late 1945 joint Filipino and American troops finally liberated the island. Capiz and Aklan
were considered as one until 25 April 1956 when it became separated, under the law of Republic Act
1414 signed by President Ramon Magsaysay.

PLACES

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• The Sacred Heart of Jesus – is a giant statue of Jesus Christ in Roxas, Capiz in the
Philippines and it is said to be the tallest of its kind in the Philippines, was built in
2015 within the Pueblo de Panay mixed-use development.
• The Villareal Stadium – is a sports complex in Roxas, Capiz, Philippines and is a
6,000 capacity air-conditioned gymnasium.
• CityMall Arnaldo-Roxas – is a shopping mall located at Arnaldo Blvd, Roxas, Capiz.
It is the first mall under the CityMall brand in the Philippines which is developed and
owned by DoubleDragon Properties.

CULTURE
• Capiz is rich in their cultural heritage and they have awesome marine bounty within
their province. They are rich in seafood such as prawn, talaba and other shellfish and
known to be served during their annual fiesta in Capiz province on Panay island
which they call Capiztahan.
• The province has 19 Visayan folk dances such as "Tinolabong", "Gayong-gayong",
"Timawa", Dagit-dagit", "Beneracion", "Tatay Meroy Cariñosa", "Pukol", "Habanera
Capiceña", "Cabatingan", "Saad", "Pitik Mingaw", "Kuratsa Capiceña", and
"Palomita Coquitana" to name a few.
• Saot Capiz – The First Capiz Dance Season held every Saturday at the Capiz
Provincial Park, Roxas City.
• Sinadya sa Halaran – Is a merging of the Roxas City Fiesta "Sinadya" and the
Province celebration of "Halaran". It is a commemoration of the feast of the
patroness of Roxas City which is the Immaculate Conception and a thanksgiving. It
literally means "Joy in Sharing and Thanksgiving". Celebrated usually in the week
leading to or after May 12 which is the charter day of the city.
• Pangahaw Festival – A thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest by the Indigenous
Peoples of Jamindan.
• Guyum-Guyuman Festival – "Caguyuman" the old name of Pontevedra, meaning
anthill, a name distinct for ants' house.
• Talahong Festival – Talaba and tahong is very rich in production in these areas and
they celebrate its abundance every 2nd Friday and 2nd Saturday of May.
• Tagbuan Festival – It was conceptualized during the Pre-Spanish time, wherein there
were aetas in the upland barangay.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

Capiz is now being promoted as tourist site with the help of their vice
governor. They plan to make Capiz to be among the best tourist destinations in
the country is given focus by the Office of the Vice Governor of Capiz. In the
4th Capiz Regional Tourism Expo happened in 2018 The Province of Aklan
participated in the 3-day 4th Capiz Regional Tourism Expo at the Robinson’s
Place Roxas Activity Center held in September 6-8, 2018. The activity and
event aimed to strengthen tourism promotion within the province with the help
of their tourism campaign called, “Experience Western Visayas First”.

IV. Guimaras

HISTORY

First Spanish settlement in Guimaras was first discovered by a Spanish leader, Gonzalo
Ronquillo de Peñalosa and started Christianization of the natives of the island where in 1755; the island
was organized into a regular parish. Douglas McArthur, an American who marked the history in
Guimaras when he came to Iloilo at the age of 23 as the head of the company of Corps of Engineers.
They built roads currently named McArthur's Wharf alongside with Sto. Rosario Wharf. The province
of Guimaras was also known as the “Mango Capital” of the Philippines where sweet mangoes from

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there were widely known and popular and regarded as the best in the world because of the unique
combination of soil and climate on the Island. Guimaras was said named after two ill-fated lovers
Princess Guima and a slave Aras in history. When the two escaped in the island on a small raft but
were swallowed up in a raging sea, Princess Guima’s father grieving for his daughter and was heard
shouting the names Guima and Aras, hence having name of the island Guimaras. Around 1581,
Spanish governor and Captain-General of the Philippine Islands - Gonzalo Ronquillo de Peñalosa,
established a settlement in Guimaras where he developed Christianization is the native island and he
organized villages of Nayup under the patronage of Saint Peter the Apostle and Igang with Saint Anne
as patroness. In 1742, Guimaras came under the jurisdiction of Dumangas – now known as Iloilo. In
1751, Jesuits took over Guimaras. In 1942, Japanese troops and forces landed on the islands of
Guimaras and the Empire of Japan began during the Second World War. In 1945, the combined United
States and Philippine Commonwealth forces landed on Guimaras Island and attacked the Japanese
colony and defeated them. Then the island was finally liberated.

PLACES
• Isles of the Seven Sins, more commonly known as Siete Pecados, is a group of seven
islands located between the towns of Buenavista, Guimaras and Dumangas, Iloilo. It
is a developing tourist attraction together with another small islet called Roca
Enchantada (or Enchanted Rock) some distance away towards the shore.

CULTURE
• Mangoes, palay, coconuts, livestock, poultry and fishing as major products in the
province. Major industries are tourism, fruit processing, coconut processing, fish
farming, handicrafts making, mining, and quarrying and lime production.
• Manggahan Festival
• Taklong Island
• List of islands of the Philippines
• Taklong Island National Marine Reserve
• The island province is famous for producing one of the sweetest mangoes in the
world, thus earning the nickname "Mango Capital of the Philippines"

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The Department of Tourism DOT launched a marketing campaign that aims to bring at
least 126,000 tourists for a 12-month period. Guimaras is known to its sweetest mangoes and
also in its white-sand beaches. It is known as an alternative beach destination to both residents
and visitors of Iloilo City, the regional capital. They almost earned P2.5 billion from its
133,525 visitors for fiscal year of 2018.

V. Iloilo

HISTORY

The origins of the people of Iloilo is said to be originated from the state of Pannai.
Meanwhile The the state of Pannai was eventually destroyed by the Chola invaders. Its surviving
soldiers, royals and scholars were said to have escaped eastwards but the high-borne scholars, soldiers
and nobles of Pannai was said fled to other islands away from Pannai. Datu Paiburong found a local
settlement called Irong-Irong then bought the island of Panay (named after the state of Pannai or the
shortening of the Ati word, Ananipay) from Marikudo, the chieftain of the Ati people. Suddenly The
Kedatuan of Madja-as grew powerful and influencial as they cross and rivaled the nearby states of the
Rajahnate of Cebu, the Kingdom of Tondo and the Sultanate of Sulu in times of wealth and abundance
in those cities. In 1512, its state has grown powerful in terms of militar and economical. Later on Spain
eventually conquered the island of Panay when Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi moved
from Cebu. Then in 1566 the first Spanish settlement in the island was in Ogtong. In 1581, the
encomienda in Ogtong was moved to La Villa Rica de Arevalo. In the year 1600, attacks began where
a large Muslim armada plans to destroy Iloilo City. Two Moros named Sirungan and Salikala lead the
Muslim force that time. Fort San Pedro was constructed by that time to help them defend in 1616. Also
Spanish christianized the area. After the entire island began to prosper and develop itself. They have

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arisen due to its successful textile and sugar industry. Iloilo grew to be the most important province
outside Manila. Iloilo became a home to many firsts which includes the first department stores and
cinema theatres in the nation by the time of the American period.

PLACES
• The Beaux-Arts Villa Lizares (Lizares Mansion) in the town of Jaro.
• Campanario de Jaro (Jaro Belfry)
• The town of La Villa Rica de Arevalo
• Casa de Emperador in Iloilo Business Park
• Iglesia de Molo (St. Anne Parish)
• Torre del Reloj (The Clock Tower)
• Castle of Don Juan Ledesma

CULTURE
• Dinagyang Festival – celebrated in honor of the Holy Child Jesus (Santo Niño de
Jesus) held every fourth Sunday of January in honor of the Holy Child Jesus (Santo
Niño de Jesus) in avenerated image of Santo Niño de Cebu.
• The Jaro Fiesta (Fiesta de Jaro) or Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria - in
honor of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Virgin of Candelaria) the patron of
Western Visayas and Romblon held every 2 February.
• Paraw Regatta - oldest traditional boat sailing event in Asia held every February.
• Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) – where contemporary and
modern arts are displayed.
• The Henry Luce III (museum and library) of Central Philippine University - one of
the largest libary in the Philippines.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The Department of Tourism (DOT) set MICE campaign in Iloilo City. The PHP50-
million Iloilo City MICE campaign was launched on Thursday at the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON)
at Iloilo Business Park. MICE means (meetings, incentives, conferences/conventions,
exhibitions/events) within the province. The event was led by Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-
Puyat and Senator Franklin Drilon. The campaign also has their tagline, “Meet you in Iloilo,” where
Iloilo is focused to its primary MICE destination in the province. MICE magazine and the launching of
the Iloilo MICE campaign official logo were the highlights of the event. The private sector, local
government unit of this city, Iloilo province, and Guimaras province is together with The Iloilo MICE
Alliance to come up to attractive incentives for the convention.

VI. Negros Occidental

HISTORY

The island was divided into two different provinces namely Negros Occidental and
Negros Oriental in 1890. Binalbagan and Ilog are two of the earliest native settlements before which
later became towns in 1572 and 1584. Ilog was the first capital of the province in 1743. Then Bacolod
formally became the capital of the province in 1849. Negros was known in old Hiligaynon by the
natives as "Buglas", meaning "cut off.” In April 1565 when the Spaniards came, they named it
"Negros" because of the dark-skinned natives within the tribe. At the end of 1987, after the successful
end of the Marcos regime, the province economic situation before had turned slowly into a positive
upturn. With the help of everyone’s participation within the, economy started to accelerate and led to
stable economic growth. Communities started fish farming, seafood catching, planting crops, raising of
livestock and producing high quality produces such as fruits and vegetables in the market. They have
developed and manifested the increase in sales of consumer goods and by-products later on. Up until
today, Negros Occidental remains one of the most progressive and still considered as a largely
developed province here in the Philippines.

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PLACES
• The Panaad Park and Stadium – A multi-purpose stadium in the province and has a
seating capacity of 15,500, but holds around 20,000 people with standing areas. It is
unofficially designated as the home stadium of the Philippines national football team.
The stadium features replicas of the landmarks of the 13 cities and municipalities of
Negros Occidental.
• The Capitol Park and Lagoon – a provincial park located in the heart of Bacolod
City, Negros Occidental. Statue of a carabao (water buffalo) is one of its landmarks
of the park that is being pulled by a woman wherein on the other end is another
carabao sculpture being pulled by a man located at the northern end of the lagoon.
• The Bacolod Public Plaza – located in the heart of the downtown area, near the city
hall and across from the San Sebastian Cathedral and was constructed in 1927.
• The San Diego Pro-cathedral – known as the San Diego Parish Church or the St.
Didacus Parish Church.
• The Ruins, Talisay City
• The Paglaum Sports Complex

CULTURE
• The Panaad Festival - (sometimes spelled as Pana-ad) Panaad is the Hiligaynon word
meaning "vow" or "promise"; it is a celebration in commemoration of a vow in
exchange for a good life. Held annually during the month of April.
• MassKara Festival
• Pasalamat Festival of La Carlota
• Bailes de Luces of La Castellana
• Pintaflores Festival of San Carlos
• Negros Summer Workshops

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The province participates in given travel fairs and business missions to support
visitors that visit the province. They have hosted tours for local and international media in
various local government units (LGUs) and made various tourism-related events like Panaad
Festival and other festivals. They also considered measures to boost local tourism which
include the proper maintaining of peace and order within the province, and strengthening the
image of Negros Occidental as an investment destination.

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REGION 7
CENTRAL VISAYAS
Land area 14,923 square kilometers
Location Lies at the center of the Philippine
archipelago between the major islands of
Luzon and Mindanao. It is bounded on the
north by the Visayan Sea; on the east by
the Camotes Sea; on the south by the
Mindanao Sea; and on the west by the
province of Negros Occidental.
Population (As of year) 6,041,903 (2015 Census)
Provinces • Bohol
• Cebu
• Negros Oriental
• Siquijor

Capitals of Provinces • Tagbilaran City (Bohol)

• Cebu City (Cebu)
• Dumaguete City (Negros
Oriental)
• Siquijor (Siquijor)
Religion • 92% were Catholics, 2%
Aglipayans, 1% Evangelicals
while 5% are United Church of
Christ in Ph, Iglesia Ni Cristo
and other religions

Dialect • Boholano
• Cebuano
• Hiligaynon
Transportation and • The region is well connected to
Accessibility the rest of the country by air or
sea, and there are some buses that
makes it more accessible to all
the people who wants to go in
this region. Most overseas
visitors will enter it by air,
landing at Mactan-Cebu
International Airport.

TOURISM PROFILE
Visitor Arrivals: Foreign Arrival’s in Central Visayas hit 4.3M in the year of 2019 with the total of 9.4
million tourists internationally and locally up by 16. 36 percent compared to 2018’s eight million
arrivals. Cebu city is the top popular tourist destination among other provinces. Koreans holds the
record of being the top tourist source market with a total of 1,579,189 arrivals to be followed by China
with 762,583 arrivals and Japan with 548,627 arrivals.

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I. Bohol

HISTORY
Bohol is the tenth biggest island of the country. It was created as a province on March 10,
1917. Bohol is comprised of 47 towns and its capital, Tagbilaran City. Oval in shape like the
proverbial ubing kinampay or purple yam, its total land area is 411,726 hectares including 73
other islands and islets. The name Bohol is thinking to be derived from the name of the barrio
of Bo-ol, a barangay located in Tagbilaran City which was amongst the first locations toured
by the Magellan expedition. Some sources, however, claim that it actually comes from the
Visayan term "boho" (hole) owing to the abundant caves, caverns, and holes in the island.

PLACES
Chocolate Hills- it is the most well known tourist attraction on Bohol islands. During tye dry
season, these hills take on a milk-chocolate color- hence "Chocolate Hills". During the rainy
season they are lush and green.
Hinagdanan Cave-Hinagdanan Cave is a cave in the municipality of Dauis on Panglao
Island, in Bohol Province, in the Philippines. Hinagdanan Cave is made of limestone.
Aloha Beach- The Aloha beach is one of the most famous tourist spots in Bohol province
because of its white sand and the rocky cliffs.
Nalusuan Island- The Island was originally and locally known as Kalusuan meaning a place
of penises in cebuano. Nalusuan is a man made resort island in the cebu and one of the islands
comprising the Olango Island Group.
Philippine Tarsier Santuary- Is a large forest dedicated to the protection of tarsiers, small
nocturnal primates with big, round eyes that feed primarily on insects.
Balicasag Island- Is truly a wonderful destination for tourist in the philippines, especially for
sea lovers. You can go diving, island hoping, snorkeling, and dolphin watching.
Jardin Necitas- Made from thousand multicolored plastic roses and tulips that light up during
nightfall, the stem is made out of a steel bar that the flowers stand on. Jardin Necitas is also
owned by Pilar Mayor Necitas Cubrado and her daughter Vanessa, who brought the artificial
flowers to their hometown.
Source: Travel/things-to-do

CULTURE
Ubi Festival- (During the month of January) This festival celebrates the Ubi plant one of the
most popular and prized crops on the island of bohol. The plant is so popular that it is used to
provide the coloring in the making of halu-halo the national dessert.
Agbuhan Festival- (Held on June 28th) Agbuhan Festival celebrates the traditions and culture
of the Philippines. The Agbuhan Festival is designed to promote tourism,agriculture,and
ecological environment of the island of bohol
Pahinungod Festival- (Month of may) The Pahinungod Festival is known for being a very
sacred and respected Philippine Festival. The Pahinungod Festivals inlcudes concerts, street
dances and daily exhibits and seminars of the island's history.
Bolibongkingking Festival- The festival explored the history and folklore of the people
through dances and music events
Sandugo Festival Tagbilaran- (Taking place during the month of july)
Sandugo Festivals inlcudes plenty of streer fairs, dances,sporting events,cultural events and
more.
City Fiesta- (Starting on May 1st) This fiesta is filled with exciting dances and entertainment
as well as stage plays,concerts pageants and more.

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Katigbawan Festival- (Third week of june each year) The katigbawan Festival showcase
local livesstock,arts and crafts and even includes an argo fair.
Source: Infobohol.com

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

“Bohol: Heart the Islands, Truly Philippines”, Its local government recently launched a
tourism campaign with the slogan. The island province of Bohol reinvigorates its tourism
promotion with a campaign that is said to “go deep into the roots emotionally.”

II. Cebu

HISTORY
Cebu City, the capital of Cebu, is considered to be the oldest city in the Philippine.Its name’s
derivation has many alternative interpretation but according to history, it was derived from the
word “Sibu” which means “trade”. During the reign of Rajah Humabon, the island has since
become an important trading center where various products are being bartered like agricultural
products, precious stones, perfumes, etc. Its harbors has become known vernacularly as
“Sinibuayng Hingpit” which means “the place for trading” which later was shortened to sibu
or sibo “to trade” from which the modern name “Cebu” came from. Through the years, Cebu
became more and more industrialized. The rise of big companies, the trend of technology, and
the innovation by the people make Cebu very progressive. Cebu is now the home for many
BPOs and small to very large companies that contribute to the progression of the whole island
especially Cebu City.

PLACES
Cebu Taoist Temple- This temple had become popular because of its artistic structures. Even
non-believers of the Taoism religion pay visit to the place, for Taoists this is the ideal place to
pray or meditate
Temple of Leah- The next tourist attraction is the Temple of Leah which is along Cebu
Transcentral highway.The temple is a symbol of his undying love for his wife of 53 years,
Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. The temple has 24 chambers including a museum, an art gallery
and a library.
10,000 Roses of Cebu- This magnificent spot, which is in Day-as Barangay Rd, Cordova,
Cebu, has gone viral on social media, 10,000 artificial LED-powered roses surround this
certain Roses Café & More. The café offers sumptuous food which you can savor while
enjoying the wonderful mood with your lover.
Osmeña Peak- Osmeña Peak is the highest point in the entire island. Lime stones that have
sharp protruding peaks which are perfect for taking pictures make up these hills.
Oslob whale sharks- Oslob Municipality is known for old churches and beautiful beaches but
became more popular because of the gentle giants – the Whale Sharks.
Cebu Safari and Adventure- Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is the largest zoo in the
Philippines. And it has Asia’s longest zipline a whooping 1.2 kilometers. This zoo includes
plant and animal species of various kinds, such as exotic tigers and birds.
Anjo World Theme Park- Anjo World Theme Park is Visayas’ largest theme park and
Cebu’s pride for its world-class designs and rides. It is situated in Minglanilla, roughly an
hour from Cebu city.
Source: https://www.travelcebu.ph/blog/cebu-tourist-spots-guide/

CULTURE
Sinulog Festival- (3rd Sunday of January) Most popular and grandest festival it is celebrated
every 3rd sunday January in honor of the Señor Sto. Niño. The Sinulog is a dance-prayer
expressing devotion to the Holy Child. it is a popular belief among Cebuanos that this dance-

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prayer is the most effective way of getting favors from the Sto. Niño. This festival is world-
renowned and the most extravagant festival in Cebu
Tagbo Festival- (19th January) In honor of patron Sto. Nino de Poro.Tagbo is a very
significant event precluding the birth of a town very dear to the hearts of her sons and
daughters.
Bodbod Festival- (10th of February) The town of Catmon is famous for its tasty “bodbod”
and thus is the focus of the festival. The street dancing competition is participated by the
different barangays has its dance movements, the movement of making the bodbod with the
costumes in bodbod concept.
Kadaugan sa Mactan- (22nd- 27th of April Lapu-Lapu City) The festival features various
activities highlighted by the series of musical productions culminating with the famous battle,
food street, and live band entertainment.
Kabayo Festival- (February Movable (Mandaue City) -The festival promotes sports tourism,
ecotourism and agri-industrial tourism awareness in the country.
Tostado Festival (3rd Sunday of April (Santander) The street dancing which is the highlight
of the festivity uses the different movements of making tostado in the dance participated in by
the different barangays.
Source: https://thehotelfortuna.com/cebu-city-traditional-festivals/

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

Cebu’s new branding tagline, “Cebu, where the heart sings”, has earned praise from various
sectors. The marketing campaign has been effective since the year of 2015.

III. Negros Oriental

HISTORY
At first, Negros was originally called “Buglas”, a kind of tall grass resembling the present-day
sugar cane plant. When the Spaniards came they encountered many dark-skinned people with
black kinky hair that’s why they changed the name of the island to “Negros”. Miguel Lopez
de Legaspi was one of the people who were responsible in the exploration of this island.
Negros Oriental is really rich when it comes to history together with Negros Occidental. The
province was governed by Spaniards, United States and Japan that it offers you a lot when it
comes to the World War II days.
When President Benigno Aquino III signed Executive Order No. 183, s. 2015, the Negros
island Region was formed when Negros Oriental was separated from Central Visayas and
transferred to the new region together with the Negros Occidental and Bacolod.
In the term of our current president Rodrigo Duterte, he revoked the Executive Order No. 183,
s. 2015 through the signage of Executive Order No. 38 on August 9, 2017 for the reason of
lack of funds to fully establish the region resulting the Negros Oriental ceing back into Central
Visayas.
As of Today, the idea of the twin provinces of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental
reunified into one federal state/region is already being talked about by the local provincial
politicians.

PLACES
Apo Island
It is one of the best diving spots in the World, it has 72-hectare volcanis island with some
unique rock formations and white pebble beach. Some of the creatures you’ll see when you

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visit are clownfish(nemo), Mantay Ray, Moray EEL, White tip shark and Nudibranchs, a kind
of critter that’s not easy to find.
Mount Calaon
An active volcano that can be called as Canlaon Volcano that can be found in Negros Oriental.
It is the highest point in the Visayan Islands with 8,086 fett (2,465m). It is good for the
mountain climbers and will surely enjoy the view that it can offer.
The Rizal Boulevard
It was built in the year of 1916 and extends 780 meters long. It was named after Jose Rizal
who used to be there to go for a walk sometimes.
Fil-Am Japanese Shrine
Located at the hilly ranges of Valencia is this historical monument. The story behind this was
for remembering the many lives lost in the World War II in that actual place. It was believed
to provide a closure to the unforgettable era and a friendship between the three countries
which is the Philippines, America and Japan.
Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage
Also known as NOAH where you can find a different hand crafted pieces that is suitable for
the tourists to bring home as a souvenirs. You can find different Negros Island local stones
that are worthy to export for its original designs.
Sidlakang Negros Villages
This is the Negros Oriental’s small version of Negros Occidental’s Panaad village that
features booths and pavillons for the tourists where they can different souvenir items made
mainly from woven materials, terracotta, shells, and capiz. It is also where the Negros Oriental
Provincial Tourism Office is located.

CULTURE
Buglasan festival - is one of their festivals that was revived in 2001 in
Dumaguete and celebrated yearly in the month of October known to be the
“Festivals of festivals”.
Tawo-tawo festival in Bayawan City, laso known as the Scarecrow festival. It
is about the tawo-tawo that drives the crows away into their farmland that
really helps them to have a bountiful harvest do they are giving thanks to their
saint patron for helping them.
Sandurot Festival of Dumaguete celebrated during the third week of
November yearly. The word Sandurot originated from the Vissayan word
“pakig-sandurot” which means to join in. It is a celebration depicts on
showing the friendliness and hospitality of the city.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The destination brand, “Negros Oriental: This is how you want to live,” closely describes the
province's natural environmental attractions and its people, according to the tourism council as
of Feb 19, 2016.

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IV. Siquijor

HISTORY
The Island of Siquijor is known to many as the mystical island of the Philippines, It did cha
changed a lot through history. “KATAGUSAN,” derived from the word tugas is the island’s
named used to be which are the molave trees that cover the hills are. Because of the molave
trees and the fireflies in them, the island was earlier poetically known to the spaniards as Isla
del Fuego – The Island of Fire. This Island’s present name is claimed to after Kind Kihod, a
man who is ruling the island that the Spaniards met. When the Spaniards came, they were
allegedly greeted by the King, “Si Kihod,” and they mistakingly thinking that He was talking
about the island adopted the name Sikihod which later changed to Siquijor, as it was easier to
pronounce. A more down to earth explanation of the name, is that it comes from the native
term quidjod which means the tide is going out. Apparently, many people still believes that
Siquijor is full of mysteries where it has voodoo and witchcraft.
Aside for Myths and Legends, the Island was discovered by the Spaniards named Estaban
Rodriquez and Juan Aguirre during the Legazpi expedition in the year 1565. The whole
Philippines was under the Spaniards including Siquijor iuntil the year of 1898 and later on
passed the power to the United States.
The Island was occupied by Japanese detachments between 1942 and 1943 and by the Time of
World War II, it wasn’t the center of severe military action. Philippines guerrillas caused
havoc to the Japanese properties and sabotaged it causing them to appoint a civilian named,
Shunzo Suzuki to properly rule the Siquijor but unluckily didn’t succeed because of the
Guerilla forces. Another Japanese – Mamor Fukuda took control until the allied liberation
forces came in 1944 and forced the Japanese to abandon Siquijor.

PLACES
The Salagdoong Beach - Located in the town of Maria is one of the most featured white sand
beaches. With its inviting clear light blue waters and the abundant ,arine life, the Salagdoon
has been a great place for snorkelling, diving or even just hanging around for a perfect
weekend.
Century Old Balete Tree (The oldest and biggest) - The tree is is the oldest and the biggest
tree in the whole island estimated to be over 400 years old. It is surrounded by a man-made
pool and a fish foot spa. Locals actually couldn’t explain where the water under the tree flows
from.
Cambugahay Falls - One of the many tourist attractions in Siquijor. The waterfall has a clean
warm water coming from the natural springs, rain water and water sheds that obviously invites
the tourists to for a wonderful swimming lagoons, and what makes it more fantastic it consists
of multi-layerd cascading falls.
The San Isidro Labrador Parish Church - Commonly known as Lazi Church, is a Roman
Catholic church in the municipality of Lazi, Siquijor, Philippines within the jurisdiction of the
Diocese of Dumaguete. The Lazi Convent is said to be the largest and oldest convent in Asia.
Siquijor Bell tower - The st. Francis de Assisi church bell tower is build on a small hill facing
the well hidden convent. The convent also served as a sanctuary for the local people during an
enemy raid. Like most old churches the bell tower is placed a little separated from the church
building, In to old days, bell towers also acted as watch towers. Invaders could be easily
spotted from afar.
Salagdoong forest reserve- Salagdoong man-made forest is the biggest of its kind not only in
the Philippines but also in the entire Southeast Asia. Salagdoong derives it's name from the
Cebuano phrase salag sa doong, which literally means nest of the doong bird.
Marelle’s Underwater World Museum - You’ll find exhibits that speak to the fishing
culture here in Siquijor like catamaran fishing boats, fishing nets, graphs, charts, and maps.
This is also one of the best spots to buy creative and unique souvenirs.

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CULTURE
Folk Healing Festival (Black Saturday, San Antonio, Siquijor) – Herbalists from all over the
Visayas and Mindanao meet in the barangay of San Antonio where medicinal potions are
commonly prepared, using the traditional method practiced since ancient times.
Solili Festival (September, Siquijor) – This Solili Binalave Festival that takes after the
traditions in Lazi, Siquijor happens to be a marriage ritual where both parents of the bride and
groom prepare a feast and giving advices to the couples when it comes to the realities of
married life. The rituals are done in a way of street-dancing competition making it the
highlight of the week-long Araw ng Siquijor Charted Day celebration.
Delicacies
Saang sa Alat
Spider conch shells or saang is a popular seafood item in Siquijor. The popular way of
cooking it is to boil it in seawater, a recipe they call saang sa alat.
Pan Bisaya
A humble baking shack in Enrique Villanueva town prides itself of its Pan Bisaya, bread with
a filling of bucayo. In other parts of the Philippines, this is called pan de coco.
Sangkutsa
Sangkutsa is chicken cooked in coconut cream. Much like ginataang manok but with a lot less
green vegetables.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The Best View of Siquijor
Their slogan is “The Best View of Siquijor” and there's a good reason for it and was created
on Apr 22, 2019.

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REGION 8
EASTERN VISAYAS
Land area 21,562.9 square kilometers
Location Located on the eastern edge of the
Visayas island chain, facing the Pacific
Ocean.
Population (As of year) 4,440,150 (2015 Census)
Provinces • Biliran
• Eastern Samar
• Leyte
• Northern Samar
• Samar
• Southern Leyte
Capitals of Provinces • Naval (Biliran)
• Borongan City (Eastern Samar)
• Tacloban City (Leyte)
• Catarman (Northern Samar)
• Catbalogan City (Samar)
• Maasin City(Southern Leyte)
Religion • Majority of people in Eastern
Visayas are belong to Roman
Catholics with 93%, Aglipayans
comprises of 2% and
Evangelicals is 1%. The
remaining were belonged to
Iglesia Ni Cristo, Seventh Day
Adventist or other religions.
•
Dialect • Waray
• Cebuano
Transportation and • The transportation to this region
Accessibility is possible by air, land, and sea
that makes it more accessible to
all the tourist who might want to
go in this region. Tacloban City
is the jump-off point of the
region if you are travelling by
air landing you to Catarman
Airport, Calbayog and Ormoc
Airports. All the cities and
capital towns of this region are
accessible by bus from Manila,
Cebu and Davao. Travelling by
sea, Ormoc City is the main
entry point from Cebu, Leyte is
the entry point from Bohol and
the town of Palompon is the
seaport from Manila and
Mindanao.
TOURISM PROFILE
Visitor Arrivals: The exact arrivals for Eastern Visayas was not released yet but just like any other
regions, the arrivals of the visitors here keeps increasing because of having a target market number of
2.1 million in 2019.

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I. Biliran

HISTORY
Biliran is the first town that was founded in 1712. In the same year, the island considered as
part of the province of Cebu. Island of Biliran, Samar and Leyte were constituted into a
separate province in 1735. Later when Samar and Leyte were split into two provinces in 1768,
Biliran became part of Leyte.The island was derived from the name of a native grass called
“borobiliran” which was in abundance during the Pre-Spanish period.

PLACES
Bagongbong falls (Bagumbong falls)
A crystal-clear and ice-cold rapids of water coming from the cathedral-
Ulan-ulan falls
This name derives from the Visayan dialect which means “rain," the falls' cascading waters
form a catch basin with water sufficient for swimming.
Recoletos falls
A kind of waterfall that has approximately 15 meters in high.
It has a wide pool with deep water that is perfect for swimming and cliff jumping.
There are wide and flat stones surrounding the basin of water is perfect for picnic.
Kasabangan falls
A nice ambience of the waterfall that added to its attraction, the same as with it's refreshing
and relaxing cold water.
Tingkasan Bat Cave
The bat cave is a favorite stop for tourists going to Sambawan island. It is ideal for
spelunking, diving and spearfishing.
Iyusan Rice Terraces
An agricultural manmade land form and a tourist attraction.

CULTURE
Oracion- an oracion code, that is said to be intended for an emergency situation, is one of
three such codes written in red ink in Ruperto “Pintong” Garcia’s booklet.

FESTIVAL
Hudyaka- a celebration that brings the marine beauty of Bais City of life. The annual
celebration of festival usually held on the first week of September.
Bagasumbol- Celebrated in Naval during its town fiesta on every 1st Saturday of October, the
festival depicts the birth of Christianity in the town during the Spanish time.
Ibid- Celebrated in Caibiran during its town fiesta every 25th of July, the festival illustrates
the playful stance of lizards.
Ginalutan- Celebrated in Maripipi in time with its annual fiesta on every 29th of September
honoring St. Michael.
Bucgay- Celebrated in Cabucgayan during its town fiesta on the 2nd week of October, the
bucgay shells, a local source of food and livelihood in the olden days, from where the town
derived its name.
Gapnod- The festival is a tribute to the town’s humble beginnings, just like the lowly
“gapnod” and its present accomplishments. This usally celebrated every 1st of September.
Subing subing- The Subingsubing Festival is celebrated every 24th of October honoring St.
Raphael the Archangel
Biliran delicasies is usually more on "kakanin". Suman Tinambiran are very popular in Naval
while special Binagol in Maripipi. There are also local foods in the island like lokon (ginisang
sugpo), labtingaw (dried fish), lecheon manok in Talahid and Agta which is also a lecheon
manok.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The tourism marketing campaign of Biliran is "LOVE KO ANG NAVAL"

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I. Eastern Samar

HISTORY
Eastern Samar where Ferdinand Magellan landed in Homonhon Island in the town of Guiuan
on March 16, 1521, in what is now officially recognized as the discovery of the Philippines by
the Western World. Magellan called the place Zamal. Sustained contact with Western
civilization occurred as early as 1596. Eastern Samar, as a province, was created from Samar
province through Republic Act No. 4221 on June 19, 1965. Typhoon Yolanda was considered
as one of the strongest typhoon that landed in this province.

PLACES
HOMONHON ISLAND- a tiny island where Ferdinand Magellan and his men first set foot
on Philippine soil on March 16, 1521; viewing of the historic Magellan plaque/marker.
SULUAN ISLAND- the First Filipinos who made contact with Magellan lived here; has
sandy beaches.
CALICAON ISLAND- an island bounded by the Pacific Ocean on the East, and Leyte Gulf
on the West
TUBABAO ISLAND- the White Russians of the IRO (International Refugee Organization)
stayed immediately after World War II.
KANTICAN ISLAND (PEARL ISLAND)- is a pearl culture farm. Ahaven of rich marine
life such as lobsters, shells, fishes, abalones, corals. Clear blue waters and immaculate white
coral beach.
SANTA MONICA CAVES- a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean; an excellent place for
fishing, scuba diving, surfing, swimming.
CHURCH OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION- A 16th century church with its
entire structure still preserved including old relics of "santos," hand carved altars and doors.
HAMORAWON SPRING- A natural spring said to be miraculous.

CULTURE
FESTIVAL
Homonhon Landing – held annually every March 16 at Homonhon Island is a reenactment of
the Philippines' discovery by Magellan in 1521.
Padul-ong – held every September 7 at Borongan reenacts how the Lady of Nativity emerged
as the town Patroness.
Balangiga Incident- held on held on September 28 at the town of Balangiga.
DELICACIES
Salukara- is a cross between bibingka and a pancake, with hints of puto. It uses essentially
the same ingredients as well (rice flour, water, sugar) but swaps yeast for tuba (palm wine)
instead
Baduya- Samar’s answer to Japanese tempura. Fresh shrimps, chopped green onions, salt, and
pepper mixed with a batter of flour, water, and baking powder are fried in clumps that turn
into these delicious crispy fritters.
Kinilaw- a Filipino-native popular dish with dozens of variations across the regions. It’s often
referred to as Filipino ceviche, made of any type of raw ingredient and vinegar.
Dalu-dalu- These are snail-like slugs (see Florida Cerith) found on sea and fresh waters as
well as on land.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The tourism marketing campaign of Eastern Samar is they will enhance their place and
improve the experience of tourist for giving a chance to get to know their people, experience

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their culture, taste their cuisine and also to discover and to experience the infinite escape not
only in Eastern Samar but also in Eastern Visayas.

II. Leyte

HISTORY
Leyte is the largest and oldest province in the Eastern Visayan. Before the Spanish Era, Leyte
was called Hiraite it was name to the beautiful wife of a Datu. In early Spanish period, During
1521 the province was visited by the Spanish explorers led by Ferdinand Magellan. Leyte also
known as Las Islas Felipinas, named by Roy Lopez de Villalobos in 1543, a name that later
extended to the entire archipelago. According to PSA, Four centuries later, in 1944, the Battle
of Leyte Gulf, the biggest naval battle between the Americans and the Japanese in world
history, transpired in Leyte. General Douglas MacArthur, at the head of an army of more than
250,000 men waded ashore on the island at Red Beach, Palo, Leyte. This began the end of the
Japanese Imperial Army, eventually, the 2nd World War.

PLACES
Lake Danao
- It is located at Ormoc City, a violin-shaped lake on the mountains of Ormoc was previously
named Lake Imelda but was changed to Lake Danao Natural Park afterwards. According to
experts, this lake is volcanic in origin like the popular Taal Lake in Tagaytay City. It is a
depression produced by the Leyte Central Fault, an active fault passing through the lake area
in N-S direction. Most rock formations that surrounds the lake are andesitic volcanic rocks. At
more or less 700 meters above sea level, Lake Danao lies on an altitude similar to Tagaytay,
making the area cooler than the average Philippine temperature.
White Beach
-Ideal site for fishing, swimming, boating, skiing, and picnicking. Beautiful fine sand that
sparkle gives you a good feeling by just walking on it; makes excellent body rub.
Red Beach
-Landing site of the allied forces headed by Gen Douglas Mc. Arthur during the Liberation of
the Philippines in 1944; panoramic view of Leyte Gulf and Samar Island; ideal place for
promenading, picnicking, swimming and windsurfing.
Balugo Falls
- Developed area with beautiful tropical trees, flowers and shrubs; two swimming pools and
dressing rooms; nursery for vegetables and trees.
Leyte Provincial Capital
- Built in 1907, it is the seat of the provincial government of Leyte. Historic viewing of mural
depicting the First Mass in Limasawa in the Orient and Gen Douglas Mac Arthur´s landing;
became the seat of the commonwealth Government of the Philippines when President Sergio
Osmeña, Sr. came in 1944 with the Liberation Forces of General Mac Arthur.
Price Mansion
- An example of the American colonial home built in 1990. Sturdy mansion where Gen. Mac
Arthur put up his official headquarters and residence when he came with the Liberation forces
in October 20, 1944.
Mac Arthur Leyte Landing Memorial
- Monument Gen. Mac Arthur landed with the Liberation Forces. lagoon where the statues of
the life-size stand; beautiful beach; panoramic view of Leyte Gulf and Samar Island.
Battle of Baluarte Marker
- Site of the historic battle, between Filipino, guerrillas, and Japanese Imperial Forces at dawn
of August 24, 1944. Significant because there was no Filipino casualty while all the Japanese
except one were killed in the encounter; beautiful and symbolic monument made up of three
stairs: at the topmost stand 3 rifles each crowned by a helmet: measuring 3.5 x 3.5 meters.

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This concrete structure is fenced by big silver-colored chains; on one side area 3 flagpoles
which look like bayonets.
San Juanico Bridge
-Longest and most beautifully designed bridge in the Philippines, connecting the provinces of
Samar and Leyte one of the monumental project of former president Ferdinand Marcos.

CULTURE

FESTIVALS
Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival
Celebrated every last week of the month of June, Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival is a very
popular Leyte festival that regularly draws lots of attention from foreign and local tourists
alike. With Tacloban City as its focal point, this event aims to commemorate folk beliefs,
epics, as well as the colorful traditions of the native people in the province. In general, dance-
drama presentations are major highlights of this festival, which feature people who cover their
bodies with colorful paints. Aside from the wonderful cultural presentations, this event also
features many bazaars, where tourists can purchase native products, special delicacies, and
other interesting items.
Buyogan Festival
Held every 19th day of August, Buyogan Festival is another highly popular and attractive
festival in the Philippines. Annually, the local government of Abuyog organizes this special
event to celebrate the founding as well as the rich history of the town. To highlight the
festivities, local residents participate in dances while wearing colorful costumes and make-ups
that closely resemble the appearance of bees. In addition, the choreography of these
outstanding and entertaining dance presentations also mimics the graceful movements and
behaviors of honeybees.
Sangyaw Festival
Organized every June in Tacloban City, Sangyaw Festival is another fascinating festival that
local and foreign tourists love to observe whenever they visit the beautiful province of Leyte.
Like most of the other exciting festivals in the province, this one also features beautiful,
colorful, and mesmerizing dance presentations. Additionally, the various participants of
Sangyaw Festival wear make-ups that closely resemble the appearances of different flowers.
Moreover, another major highlight of this special annual event is the very exciting street
dancing competition as well as the colorful opening day parade.
Alikaraw Festival
Held annually within the municipality of Hilongos in the province of Leyte, Alikaraw Festival
is also one of the most interesting and highly entertaining special events in the area. This
colorful festival never fails to amaze tourists and guests, particularly because it
commemorates the ancient ritual of a local tribe in Leyte. At the same time, this event is a
celebration of the rich natural resources of the place, which boasts of pristine forests and
beautiful orchids. During the celebrations, people can witness enjoyable dance presentations,
as well as outstanding concerts that feature many talented home grown singers.
Pasaka Festival
Celebrated every month of August in the municipality of Tanauan, Pasaka Festival is one of
the most inviting events in the province of Leyte. Above all, this occasion is very special to
the local people because it commemorates their rich heritage, colorful tradition, as well as
strong beliefs. Tanauan residents participate in different kinds of special activities including a
dance-drama presentation, which is a major highlight of the festival. Besides sharing their
culture to future generations, the local residents also organize a feast to celebrate the richness
of their lives as well as their prosperity.
Sanggutan Festival

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Organized every 18th day of May in the municipality of Barugo, Sanggutan Festival is a
certified major tourist attraction in the province of Leyte. More than anything else, local
residents support this festival as it remembers the ancient methods of coconut wine processing
in Barugo. To highlight this special occasion, residents choreograph an interpretative dance
that portrays the winemaking process during the old times in Leyte.
Lubi Lubi Festival
Held every 15th day of August in the municipality of Calubian, Lubi Lubi Festival is a
captivating and entertaining event in Leyte that features enjoyable cultural presentations. As
major highlights of this special occasion, local residents hold dance presentations in an effort
to portray the importance of coconut trees to the lives of the various people living within the
area.
Source: leyteislandsphilippines.com

DELICACIES
Binagol - It is a sweet delicacy that has a different taste and a distinct packaging. Binagol is
made from glutinous rice and taro pudding with nuts, it also has an exciting part in the middle.
There is a sweet mixture of coconut and “Kalamay” (an alternative for brown sugar) in the
middle. It is called as BINAGOL because of its packaging that is in a coconut shell, which is
“bagol” in Waray-Waray. Tourists often associate binagol to Tacloban City since it is said that
your visit to Leyte is not complete without buying Binagol and other native delicacies.
Chocolate Moron- It is an exquisite chocolatey ‘kakanin’ that is wrapped in a banana leaf, a
combination of white coating and chocolate mixture. Moron is always present in all occasions
in Leyte and Samar. The technique to make a delicious chocolate moron is that you have to
balance the chocolate mixture and the white coating mixture so that you’ll get the perfect play
of textures. Like with Binagol, you can buy chocolate moron in pasalubong centers in
Tacloban City.
Suman-Latik - is another version of rice cake that is made from glutinous rice, coconut milk,
brown sugar or Calamay, which makes the taste distinct. Just like with the other delicacies in
Tacloban City, Suman is also wrapped in banana leaf. The latik, (it is a mixture of coconut
milk and brown sugar or calamay) is topped in suman to have a sweet taste in it. You can also
order it at pasalubong stores in the city.
Sagmani- is made from cassava and taro but, some are using sweet potatoes. It is similar to
Binagol, the texture is smooth and sticky. It is a combination of sugar, coconut milk, peanuts
(boiled) and fresh banana leaves (heated).
Roscas - is almost similar to a fortune cookie, this delicacy came from Barugo, Leyte. It is
made of flour, sugar, eggs, anis and shortening. These cookies have a different taste because
of the “Anis” that is added to the ingredients.
Source: evlearners.com

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The tourism marketing campaign of Leyte is “I shall return”. Since the famous words of
General Douglas McArthur's "I shall return" is still the best tagline in promoting Leyte to
tourists.

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III. Northern Samar

HISTORY
According to the Wikipedia, before the coming of the Spaniards, Catarman (Calatman) or
(Cataruman) was a settlement by the mouth of the river of the same name in the region called
Ibabao. The Spanish Conquistadores freely applied the name Ibabao to the northern part of
Samar island when it established its civil government. The similarities in the vocabularies and
pronunciation of the dialects of these areas traces them to a common root as a people.
The town was one of the 13 villages and settlements and adopted as pueblos by the Spaniards
in Samar Island and was one of the settlements in the northern parts of the island. The pueblo
was named Calatman and was one of the pueblos in the Visayan Islands, then collectively
referred to as Islas de Pintados.

PLACES
Pink Beach
According to traveltothephilippines.com, Sila Island is one of the seven islands that compose
the island-municipality of San Vicente Northern Samar. These islands are the boast of white
sand beaches, but Sila Island has its own uniqueness. The sand in the island is pinkish.
Dalupiri Island
According to traveltothephilippines.com, Dalupiri Island is just off the western coast of Samar
Island at the south end of the San Bernardino Strait. The island’s white beaches are considered
an “undisturbed paradise” and future “premier tourist destination” in the Eastern Visayas
region.
Batag Island Lighthouse
According to traveltothephilippines.com, The Faro De Isla Batag or the Batag Lighthouse is a
historic lighthouse on Batag Island off the coast of the town of Laoang in the province of
Northern Samar. This is the third major lighthouse fully designed and built by the Americans
during the early part of the American colonization.
Biri Island Rock Formation
According to traveltothephilippines.com, Biri Island offers you such an astonishing view
because the scenery there is just unbelievable. Tourists will surely fall in love in those rock
formations.
Laoang Church
Another historical church in Northern Samar is the Saint Michael the Archangel Parish
Church commonly known as Laoang Church situated at the heart of the town. It was
established by the Franciscan friars on 18th century who passed the strong Catholicism to the
town’s local residents.
Capul Church
It was an important port of call for the Spaniards, the inhabitants were naturally converted to
Catholicism. In 1596, the Jesuits were the first to establish a mission in the island under the
patronage of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. The first church was built using wood and thatch and
was later fortified to repulse Moro invasions. Information were taken to the site of
traveltothephilippines.com.
University of Eastern Philippines
The University of Eastern Philippines is the first State University in the Visayas. Its flagship
campus is in Catarman, Northern Samar. The University is the only comprehensive state
university in Eastern Visayas, offering the largest number of undergraduate and graduate
degree programs and short-term courses and certificates among the higher education
institutions in the region.

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CULTURE
Bankaton Festival
It is an annual boat racing contest to celebrate the feast of Nueva Señora de Salvacion, the
town’s patroness celebrated every 20th of August in Lavezares, Northern Samar.
Manoglaya Festival
A cultural-tourism festival held in the town of San Antonio from the 9th to the 12th of June
annually, celebrating the fishing skills of the town folks. The festival composed of cultural
performances, street dance, beauty search and exhibit complemented with “sugod-sugod sa
plaza”, a nightly entertainment of music and other performances from leading local
performers in the community.
Embajada Festival
This Samar festival depicts a time in history when conflict prevailed between the Moro-Moros
and the Spaniards although nowadays it is presented in a comical fashion. During the
Embajada Festival, street dancing is common and there’s always the delicious array of food
served in the town center as night sets in.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The tagline of the Northern Samar is “Peace Na Tayo” which is a simple way to communicate
the theme’s call for a participative pursuit of peace more particularly in Northern Samar being
an armed conflict area.

IV. Samar

HISTORY
Prior to the coming of the Spaniards in 1596, Samar Island was called in different names
(Samal, Ibabao/Cibabao, Tandaya, etc.). Legend says that when the Spaniards arrived in
Homonhon Island, they met a wounded man and asked the name of the place, he replied
“samad” which implies of what had happened to him for he didn’t understand Spanish. So, the
word “samad” was adopted with an alteration in the last letter (from d to r). The name Samar
was derived from the local dialect “Samad”, meaning wound or cut, which aptly describes the
rough physical features of the island that is rugged and deeply dissected by streams or a
multitude of rivers dissect the island in various directions like crease-crossing wounds.

In the early days of Spanish occupation, Samar and Leyte islands were under the jurisdiction
of Cebu. In 1735, Samar and Leyte were separated from Cebu and declared into one province
with Carigara, Leyte as the capital. Consequently, during the Spanish-American colonial
period, Samar was separated from Leyte and declared as a province in 1768 with Catbalogan
as the provincial capital.

On June 19, 1965, RA 4221 was passed by Congress dividing Samar Island into three (3)
provinces: Northern Samar with Catarman as capital, Eastern Samar with Borongan as capital,
and Western Samar with Catbalogan as capital. A subsequent legislation passed on June 21,
1969 (RA 5650) changed the title “Western Samar” to simply Samar.

PLACES
Biri Island
Home to not more than 12,000 inhabitants, its coast is rugged yet scenic while its water is wild
yet bountiful. Locals here live in a slow paced quiet life on the backdrop of the continuous
roaring of waves of the Pacific.
Langun-Gobingob Cave System

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The town of Calbiga is the cradle of this amazing underground system which is the largest
karst in the Philippines. The cave system is composed of Langun, Gobingob, Bitong
Mahangin, and Lurodpon. The same cave system is one of the biggest in Asia that’s why
caving enthusiasts should go there when in Samar.
Ulot River
Ride a boat that can take the strong rapids of that river. The end of the destination is Deni’s
Point which has cool waters and boulders where you and your friends can have a picnic. Some
visitors jump into the water from the boulders for a more exciting adventure. The torpedo
Boat Extreme Ride goes through 10.5 kilometers of rapid
Samar Archeological Museum
The museum houses many burial jars, artifacts, Chinese porcelains, religious pieces and log
coffins that have skeletal remains.
Marabut Rock Formations
The limestone formations are out on the sea so they look like they’re floating which makes an
amazing contrast with the blue sky. It’s located at San Pedro Bay which they say has calm
waters.
Lulugayan Falls
The uniqueness of the falls comes from its cascading waters that look like a pretty curtain
from afar and the sky and some trees as backdrops. The natural pools or walk on the banks
and the waterfalls

CULTURE
Parayang Harvest Festival
The main source of livelihood of the inhabitants of Samar is farming and harvesting is
something that is celebrated, being considered by the locals as a time of abundance and
blessing. The Parayang Harvest Festival is a day filled with celebration with several contests
being held throughout the day such as cooking competitions and beauty pageants.
Alimango Festival
According to choosephilippines.com, In Samar Province, the municipality of Santa Margarita
celebrates the Alimango Festival in honor of these mud crabs. It is celebrated to help promote
the crab industry of the municipality. The alimango are raised in fishponds and is the town’s
main source of livelihood.
Carabao Festival of Gandara town
It depicts the culture, tradition and way of life in Samar, and also pays tribute to the draft
animal that helps people till their farms and provides milk for Gandara kesiyo (native cheese).
Sarakiki-Hadang Festival
Sarakiki-Hadang Festival is celebrated in Calbayog City, Western Samar during the primary
seven day stretch of September. It is featured with an introduction of road artists dressed like
chickens and doing their chicken's romance movements. Sarakiki is a custom move and
hadang is the offering, so implies it is custom move offering of the Warays to their divinity or
gods.

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The Tourism campaign of the Samar is “Spark Samar” which created by the Samar Governor
Sharee Ann Tan together with her team in the year of 2017.

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V. Southern Leyte

HISTORY
As stated by southernleyte.gov.ph, even before the fall of the Spaniards to the Americans on
August 13, 1898, a Court of First Instance had already been established in Western Leyte.
There was the Office of the “Promoter Fiscal” equivalent to the Provincial Fiscal and the
Office of “Administrador de Hacienda” equivalent to the Provincial Treasurer. With the
change of sovereign power the positions were abolished except the Fiscal’s who remained
hearing cases from Palompon to Hinunangan. Because of the difficulty of transportation and
managing the affairs of government in Tacloban, the division of Leyte into two provinces was
thought to be the only solution. Prominent leaders of the West Coast rallied to the general
movement of a Western Leyte.

On July 1, 1960, Southern Leyte was inaugurated as a province with sixteen (16)
municipalities, 349 barangays and 4 islands: Panaon Island, Limasawa Island, San Pablo
Island and San Pedro Island. In addition Limasawa, an island to the south where the first
Roman Catholic Mass in Philippine soil is believed to have taken place and thus considered to
be the birthplace of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines.

PLACES
Limasawa Island
The first Christian Mass in the Orient, when Ferdinand Magellan came in 1521. It is historical
and cultural viewing of the Magellan Shrine / Marker.
It is also a diver's paradise. It boasts of magnificent walls and sheer drop-offs decorated with a
variety of lovely fan corals which never fails to awe even the most travelled and experienced
diver. The island also has sites for novice divers and beginners, as well as excellent reef
communities on a gradual slope. It is ideal for open water diving and underwater photography.
For the more daring and adventurous, there are numerous holes and cave let’s where one may
encounter a passing sea snake or a couple of squids.
Guinsohotan and Busay Falls
Clear waters, it’s good for swimming and picnicking.
San Pedro and San Pablo Beaches
White coral beaches ideal for swimming, surfing and skiing; can very well accommodate a
variety of activities related to diving and other water sports/recreation.
Panaon Island
An island part of Mindanao Deep, it is the second deepest body of water in the world. It’s one
of the most mystifying dive destinations in Southern Leyte. It is where one may encounter a
school whales or dolphins.
Sogod Bay
Have already established big fish sanctuaries which will someday become excellent dive sties.
The whole of Sogod Bay and parts of the Pacific area, including the islands of San Pablo and
San Pedro can very well accommodate a variety of activities related to diving and other water
sports and recreation.
Patag Daku
Patag Daku, in English, means big plain. It is certainly big but is never quite plain. It is
actually a valley so dense in vegetations that novice campers and mountaineers will never
come in or out without an experienced guide leading the way. But the trek to the valley comes
big in every way. In mountaineering parlance, it is a major climb. Not the leisurely stroll that
one might expect, the climb is an arduopus six hour journey through a maze of trees, ferns,
moss, grass and big trees.
Maasin Cathedral
Catholic Church situated in a beautiful park, with recreational facilities such as swings, slides,
tennis court. The church architecture dates back to the Spanish era are still found in its altar
and ceilings.
Malitbog, Southern Leyte
One of the oldest towns in the province of Leyte which was once the center of trade and
commerce; old big Spanish houses and church; canopy of century-old acacia trees at the town
plaza; the prominent Esca’s family mausoleum built in 1928 with its dome towering over a
catacomb; fine beaches and unexplored caves.

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Source: escapemanila.com

CULTURE
Pagkamugna Festival (Maasin City)
– Celebrated every 1st of July, the Pagkamugna Festival remebers the founding of the
province of Southern Leyte on July 1960. Grand civic parade, agri-aqua and food fair, live
concerts, motocross and the prestigious search for Southern Leyte highlight this festivity.
Pabulhon Festival (Maasin City)
– A grand display of Maasin City’s agricultural abundance. The main attraction of the
Pabulhon Festival which opens on city’s charter day (August 10) and usually last after the
celebration on August 15. The festival also showcases Cook contests, boat race, pig catching
and many more local games.
Karomata Festival (Buenavista, Pintuyan)
– A cultural celebration depicting the role of the farmers and way of life. Other highlights
include poster-making, house decoration contest and children’s contests. Its main event is the
Karomata Race. It is held during the fiesta of Barangay Buenavista Pintuyan every 3rd to 5th
of April
Tangka-Tangka Festival (Tangka-an, Padre Burgos)
– Celebrated together with the fiesta of Barangay Tangka-an every 26th to 28th of August, It
includes fun games, outdoor activities (rapelling and ascending). It culminates a beach jam
party at the very popular Tangka-a beach. Tangka means “attempt”. The beach has the best
view of Limasawa Island.
Manha-on Festival (Macrohon)
– A cultural presentation in form of dances and cheers accompanied by drums and beats from
improvised bamboo percussion instrument. It depicts how the Municipality of Macrohon
(Manha-on) got its name. It is every 2 of September coinciding with the town fiesta.
Source: philipinewonders.com

TOURISM MARKETING CAMPAIGN

The tourism campaign of southern Leyte is “One Man, One Tree” wherein it has helped
curtail the destructive force of flooding during rainy season. And according to manila bulletin
the province is also aggressively pushing for programs on enhancing rice, corn and cassava
production to cater to its growing consumers and population aside from coconut and abaca
production.

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