LEYTE

Population

14th largest Total (2007) 1,592, 336

languages

Cebuano, Waray-Waray

Genaral Information

Is a province of the Philippines located in the Eastern Visayas region. Its capital is Tacloban City and occupies the northern three-quarters of the island of Leyte. Leyte is located west of Samar province, north of Southern Leyte and south of Biliran. To the west of Leyte across the Camotes Sea is the province of Cebu.

Economy / Resources

The economy of Leyte depends on agriculture. Rice is farmed in the lower flatter areas specifically those around Tacloban, while coconut farming, for coconut oil is the main cash crop of the more mountainous areas. Fishing is also a major source of livelihood among residents.

Geography

Ormoc City is an independent component city of Leyte. The city governs itself independent of the province and the residents do not vote for elective provincial officials, as stated in the city's charter.

Culture

The people of Leyte are divided into two main groups, primarily by language. In the west and south are the Cebuanos, while in the north and east were Waray-waray. The Cebuanos have ties with Cebu, the most populous province in the Visayas; the Warays are more tied to Leyte and Samar.

Climate

The city experiences intense rain period that usually occurs during the months of June to February. Mean monthly temperature for the western section of Leyte range between 21.1 degree C to 34 degree C felt during the months of January and May.

Transportation

Three airlines operate regularly from Manila to Tacloban City. Buses ply the Manila-Maharlika-Highway route passing Eastern Visayas.Air is the only way to go. An express bus from Pampanga will take up to 24 hours, exspress! Don't try to pince the peso, it will be painful! Fast ferries and ships facilitate inter-island travel from Cebu, Manila, and other ports of call. The types of available land transportation are cars, vans, jeepneys, tricycles, and buses.