Biliran – Philippines’ Untouched Paradise
Little is known about the province of Biliran. It was once a part of the province of Leyte until it became independent in 1992.
As more is learned about this hidden paradise, Biliran’s undiscovered and unexplored wonders are starting unravel before the world. Among its well-kept treasure is the Higatangan Island, famous for its moving sandbar and the Tomalistis Falls, believed to have the clearest water in the world. Biliran still has more beaches, caves, dives sites, and other places of interest waiting to be discovered.
Demographics
1.Population –
150, 031 (as of 2007 Census)
2. Land Area – 55.42 sq. km
3. Capital – Naval
4. Language/Dialect – Cebuano, Waray, English,
and Filipino
5. Divisions
Cities (0)
Municipalities (8)
Undiscovered
Scenic Beaches
The province is blessed with white sand beaches, majestic
islets, rich marine life and coral gardens, enchanting
falls and springs, and rice terraces replicating Ifugao
creativity and ingenuity.
Tomalistis
Falls
It has unbelievably clear and sweet-tasting water said
to be a wondrous elixir capable of healing powers.
Higatangan
Island’s Moving Sandbar
The island is known for its moving sand bar extending
about 200 meters to the sea. There is one huge coral
rock, a reef that was thrust up from the ocean’s
floor centuries ago. The fields are studded with gigantic
clamshells measuring up to a meter wide.
Man-Made
Iyusan Rice
Terraces
Location: Brgy. Iyusan, Almeria, Biliran
Similar to the Banaue Rice Terraces, it is located on
a mountainous terrain where each terrace threads on
its natural slope. Although not in the same scale as
the famous Ifugao creation, this rice terraces reflects
the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Biliran’s
local farmers.
Masagongsong
Swimming Pool
Location: Brgy Masagongsong, Kawayan, Biliran
Its twin pools are supplied with naturally flowing cool
and fresh spring water that came out from rocks in the
creek. The area is shaded by coconut trees and lush
tropical plants. The resort’s cool waters and
invigorating atmosphere offer absolute relaxation to
any visitor. It has a conference hall, kiosks, comfort
and dressing rooms.
Natural
Higatangan
Island
Location: Naval, Biliran
The island has several white sand beaches sprinkled
with exotic shells newly washed up from the seabed.
Facing an open sea, the white sand beach, cool pristine
waters and exotic rock formations of Higatangan Island
are themselves nature at its best.
Sambawan
Island
Location: Mariripi, Biliran
It has two main islets rich in marine life and coral
gardens. At high tide, Sambawan is transformed into
three beautiful islets. Sambawan Island is one of Biliran's
sites for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Tingkasan
Island and Bat Cave
Location: Brgy. Balacson, Kawayan, Biliran
The island is ideal for diving and spear fishing, made
even more appealing with the abundance of edible shells.
In the island is a bat-filled cave, where ancient secondary
burial jars have been found.
Tomalistis
Falls
Location: Caibiran, Biliran
It is known for its crystal clear and sweet-tasting
waters. It is believed to be the clearest drinking water
in the world that even ships come to this place for
water supply. Also, townsfolk believe that the water
from the falls has mystical healing powers.
Bagongbong
Falls
Location: Almeria, Biliran
This 30-feet waterfalls is located amidst tropical forest
is a potential source of hydroelectric power. The Philippine
National Oil Company found out that the falls could
generate 3.5 hydropower megawatts.
Casyawan
Falls
Location: Cabucgayan, Biliran
The falls are hidden in dense and huge mahogany trees.
A narrow steep trail surrounded by lush foliage leads
to this 40-foot waterfall.
By Air-land:
Major carriers serve direct Manila-Tacloban flight
twice a day, landing at DZR Airport in Tacloban
City. From Tacloban City, aircon shuttle vans
and ordinary fare buses are available in going
to the capital.
From Mactan International Airport in Cebu, fast crafts are available daily to Ormoc City, where aircon shuttle vans connect the trip to Naval. Direct voyage to Naval is available 3 times a week.