Leyte is the main province of the Leyte island group. It’s best known for San Juanico Bridge, a two kilometer-long bridge connected to Samar and believe to be the longest in Southeast Asia. It has an impressive total of 43 spans and is 41 meters above the sea at its highest point.

Leyte is also famous for its role during World War II. The MacArthur Landing Memorial at Palo features larger than-life statues of the American generals and others wading ashore in 1944 to begin the liberation of the Philippines, fulfilling his famous promise. “I shall return”. Nearby Hill 522 is a battle site, while Palo Cathedral with its 18th-century altarpiece was once a war hospital. The 1910 Price Mansion in the capital city of Tacloban was formerly the General’s headquarters.

The provincial capitol in Tacloban has bas-reliefs if the first Catholic Mass at Limasawa and MacArthur’s return. Formerly the guesthouse of former First Lady Imelda Marcos, the Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum houses an image of the Sto. Niño, the city’s patron saint, along with priceless art objects once acquired by Imelda Marcos. Other landmarks include the Maria Kannon Garden and Cavalry Hill.

Leyte Park Resort and Hotel is probably the best place to stay in Tacloban. It is located at Magsaysay Boulevard. Amenities and facilities include deluxe rooms, suites, cottages, veranda café, floating restaurant, music lounge, disco, convention center, swimming pools and fitness center. For reservations contact (053)325-6000 or email leypark@tac.webling.com or leypark@mozcom.com