The McArthur Landing Memorial Park in Palo, Leyte, is one of the most visited landmarks in the Province or even in the Philippines; this is to commemorate the historical landing of General Douglas MacArthur. The actual landing in October of 1944 was the start of the liberation of the Philippines from the Japanese occupation – the Second World War. The statues were created by Anastacio Caedo. The significance of this park can be read on the historical markers placed in front of the park.
List of Tourist Spots in Leyte:
- McArthur Landing Memorial Park
- San Juanico Bridge
- Kalanggaman Island
- Napantao Marine Sanctuary
- Tangkaan Beach
- Lake Danao National Park
How to Get to Leyte:
- By Air: Book a flight to Tacloban City (TAC). Take a Taxi or Jeepney to their Integrated Bus Terminal. Ride a UV Express, DupTours, or GrandTours Van to your destination.
- By Bus: There are provincial bus lines with routes from Manila to any point in Leyte Province, and booking can be done online.
- In EDSA Cubao, ride an Isarog Line bus to Tacloban New Terminal, Palo, Mayorga, Tolosa, Javier, and other terminals in the Province. Travel time is about 17.5 hours.
- In Pasay Five Star, ride an Isarog Line bus to the terminals mentioned above.
- In Alabang Terminal, ride an Isarog Line bus to the above-mentioned terminals.
My Day 3 started in Capul Island, Northern Samar. I returned to the Municipality of Allen early in the morning, riding in a boat. Then, I took a pedicab ride to the Grand Tour Terminal, where I took a van bound for Calbayog City. Alighted at their bus terminal. Then, another van ride to Tacloban City. From the terminal, I walked a few meters to McDonald's, where I took a jeepney ride with a "Robinson's" signboard to HIS Capsule Hostel in Fatima Village. Using Google Maps, I tracked the route and alighted in front of HIS.
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| An early morning photo of HIS Capsule Hostel. |
Upon arrival at HIS Capsule Hostel, I was welcomed by their accommodating receptionists. Provided the house rules and booked. Their facilities are clean and organized. They have double deck beds, separated by walls, and the opening is covered with a curtain for privacy. Ventilation and air-conditioning units are suitable. They have a small cafeteria where you can socialize with the others, shower rooms with heaters, and toilets are clean and well maintained. They even have lockers to secure your belongings. They are the most accommodating hotel staff in my 6 Days of solo backpacking in Region 8. I asked them several questions, and they responded promptly (THUMBS UP!!!). Also, the rates of HIS Capsule Hostel are budget-friendly. It is definitely one of the most affordable places to stay in Tacloban City.
When everything was settled, I left my stuff in the locker and proceeded to McArthur Landing Park. How to get to McArthur Landing Park from HIS Capsule is easy. In front, I rode in a jeepney with a "Robinsons" signboard and alighted at the mall's parking area. At the same spot, I rode in another jeepney with a "Campetic" signboard and alighted near the BIR office. Instead of riding in a tricycle, I walked the 1.30-kilometer street to McArthur Park.
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| Photo of the statues at McArthur Landing Memorial Park. |
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| An iconic photo of General McArthur. |
As mentioned above, the McArthur Landing Memorial Park was built to commemorate the historical landing of General Douglas MacArthur in October 1944 - the start of the liberation of the Philippines from the Japanese occupation. I stayed here for over an hour because the rain started dropping. Rode in a tricycle back to Campetic. Then, I took a jeepney ride to Robinsons, where I had dinner. Lastly, a jeepney ride back to HIS. Bathed. Relaxed and rested. This is the end of Day 3.