Anahawan is a municipality located in the province of Southern Leyte in the Philippines. It is situated in the southeastern part of the province and is bordered by the municipalities of San Juan to the north, Hinundayan to the south, Sogod to the west, and Silago to the east.

Anahawan has a population of around 15,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural scenery, particularly its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. It is also home to several tourist attractions, such as the Anahawan Falls, which is a series of cascading waterfalls nestled in a lush forest.

The economy of Anahawan is mainly based on agriculture, with coconut, rice, and corn being the primary crops. Fishing is also an important industry, with the town’s coastal waters teeming with various species of fish and seafood.

Anahawan celebrates its town fiesta every June in honor of its patron saint, Saint Anthony of Padua. During the fiesta, the town comes alive with colorful parades, street dancing, and various cultural performances.

History

The town of Anahawan has an interesting history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally, it was a small village or barrio that belonged to the neighboring municipality of Hinundayan. However, in 1931, Anahawan gained its independence and became a separate municipality named Delgado, named after Congressman Jorge Delgado. In later years, the town was renamed Anahawan.

Over the years, the population of Anahawan has grown steadily. In 1939, the town had a population of 5,086, which increased to 6,094 by 1970. By 2000, the total population had reached 7,209, and in 2015, it had further increased to 8,211.

Anahawan is primarily an agricultural town, with rice, corn, fish, and coconut being the primary products. These industries play a significant role in the local economy and provide employment opportunities for residents.

In addition to its agricultural sector, Anahawan is also home to a few notable tourist spots. One of the most popular destinations is Mt. Cabalian Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush vegetation and offering a great view of the surrounding mountains. The St. Anthony of Padua Parish Church is another attraction that visitors can enjoy, with its beautiful architecture and historical significance.

Native Delicacies in Anahawan, Southern Leyte

The following are the top 3 native delicacies in Anahawan, Southern Leyte:

• Moron: This is a sticky rice cake made from glutinous rice mixed with coconut milk and chocolate or peanut butter. It is wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed or boiled.

• Budbud: This is another type of sticky rice cake made from glutinous rice mixed with coconut milk and sugar. It is wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed or boiled.

• Pintos: This is a type of snack made from fried glutinous rice mixed with sugar and peanuts. It is often served during special occasions or festivals.

These are just some of the native delicacies that you can find in Anahawan, Southern Leyte. Each of them has its own unique taste and texture, which makes them a must-try for food enthusiasts and travelers who want to explore the local cuisine of the Philippines.

How can you get to Anahawan, Southern Leyte? 

Here are the ways to get to Anahawan, Southern Leyte:

• Determine your point of origin. Anahawan is located in Southern Leyte, Philippines, so you will need to travel to the region first. You can fly to Tacloban City, which is the nearest major airport, or take a bus or van from nearby cities such as Cebu or Ormoc.

• Once you are in Southern Leyte, you can take a bus or van to Anahawan. Buses and vans regularly travel to and from Anahawan, and you can easily find one at any bus or van terminal in Tacloban or Ormoc.

• Alternatively, you can hire a private vehicle, such as a car or motorcycle, to take you to Anahawan. This option is more expensive but offers more flexibility in terms of travel time and route.

• It’s also recommended to confirm your travel plans in advance and research transportation options and schedules to ensure a smooth trip.

Note that road conditions in Southern Leyte can be challenging, especially during the rainy season, so it’s important to take necessary precautions and exercise caution while traveling. Have a safe trip!