Discovering the Beauty and Diversity of Eastern Visayas: An In-Depth Guide

Eastern Visayas, officially designated as Region VIII, is a breathtakingly beautiful and culturally rich region located in the Philippines. It spans across six provinces, including Biliran, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar, and Southern Leyte, as well as one highly urbanized city, Tacloban. This region is an excellent destination for those who want to explore the natural wonders, cultural heritage, and charming coastal towns of the Philippines.

Name	Type	Area (2013), in km2	Municipal count	Barangay count
Biliran	Province	536.01	8	132
Eastern Samar	Province	4,617.16	22	597
Leyte	Province	6,335.44	40	1,503
Northern Samar	Province	3,694.96	24	569
Samar	Province	6,048.03	24	951
Southern Leyte	Province	1,801.46	18	500
Tacloban	City (HUC),  Capital, Regional center	201.72	–	138
Eastern Visayas Total		23,234.78	136	4,390

A Rich Cultural Heritage

Eastern Visayas is a region with a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the pre-colonial era. It is home to the Waray people, who are known for their warm hospitality, strong community ties, and unique cultural traditions. The Waray people have a rich oral tradition, which is passed down from generation to generation, preserving the region's history, values, and beliefs. In addition, Eastern Visayas is also home to several indigenous communities, such as the Tagbanua, Agta, and Kankanaey, who have their own distinct customs, beliefs, and ways of life.

Natural Wonders and Stunning Landscapes

Eastern Visayas is home to some of the most stunning landscapes and natural wonders in the Philippines. The region boasts of lush tropical forests, crystal-clear beaches, and towering mountain ranges that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. For example, the Calbiga Cave System, located in the town of Calbiga, Samar, is a series of interconnected caves that feature stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. The caves are also home to a variety of unique and exotic species of animals and plants that can only be found in this region.

Another natural wonder that is worth exploring in Eastern Visayas is the beautiful and pristine Lake Danao, located in the town of Danao, Leyte. This stunning lake is surrounded by lush tropical forests, and its crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of fish and other aquatic species. Additionally, the lake is also an excellent spot for kayaking and fishing, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

A Thriving Coastal Culture

Eastern Visayas is home to several charming coastal towns, each with its unique history, culture, and attractions. For example, the town of Tacloban is the regional center of Eastern Visayas, and it is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and thriving coastal culture. The town is home to several museums, cultural centers, and other landmarks that showcase the region's rich history and cultural traditions.

Another charming coastal town that is worth visiting in Eastern Visayas is the town of Borongan, located in Eastern Samar. This town is known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant seafood market, and charming colonial-era architecture. Additionally, Borongan is also home to several annual festivals and cultural events, such as the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival, which celebrates the region's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

A Growing Tourism Industry

The tourism industry in Eastern Visayas is growing rapidly, with an increasing number of tourists visiting the region each year. This growth is driven by the region's rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and thriving coastal culture. Additionally, the region's strategic location, with easy access to the rest of the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia, makes it an attractive destination for travelers from around the world.