Biliran is a province located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, as of August 1, 2020, the total population of Biliran was 182,881. This represents a slight increase from the previous census in 2015, which recorded a population of 171,612.

Biliran is a relatively small province, with a land area of only 536.01 square kilometers. Despite its size, it is home to a diverse range of cultures and traditions, with a mix of indigenous and immigrant communities living in the province.

In terms of economic development, Biliran is largely dependent on agriculture, with rice, coconut, and corn as the major crops. Fishing and livestock raising are also important industries in the province.

Biliran is known for its natural beauty, with stunning beaches, waterfalls, and hot springs attracting tourists from all over the world. However, the province has also been affected by natural disasters, including typhoons and earthquakes, which have caused significant damage to the local infrastructure and economy in the past. Despite these challenges, the people of Biliran remain resilient and committed to building a brighter future for their communities.

How To Get There?

Biliran is an island province located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. There are a few ways to get to Biliran, Leyte, depending on your starting point.

By Air: The nearest major airport to Biliran is the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City, Leyte. From there, you can take a van or bus to Naval, the capital town of Biliran.

By Sea: There are also passenger ferries that travel from Cebu City to Naval, Biliran. The trip takes around 5-6 hours.

By Land: If you’re coming from Manila or other parts of Luzon, you can take a bus or drive to Matnog, Sorsogon, and take a ferry to Allen, Northern Samar. From there, you can take a van or bus to Naval, Biliran.

If you’re coming from other parts of the Visayas, you can take a bus or van to Ormoc City, Leyte, and take another bus or van to Naval, Biliran.

Once you arrive in Naval, you can take a tricycle or motorcycle taxi to your final destination within the province.

History

Biliran is an island province in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It has a rich history dating back to the pre-colonial era.

Before the arrival of the Spaniards, Biliran was already inhabited by the native Waray people. The island was divided into several small barangays or villages that were ruled by chieftains called datu.

In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the Philippines and established their colonial rule. The island of Biliran was eventually incorporated into the Spanish Empire and became part of the province of Leyte.

During the Philippine Revolution against Spain in the late 19th century, Biliran played a significant role in the fight for independence. Local revolutionaries launched several attacks on Spanish forces on the island, but it was only after the fall of Manila in 1898 that the Spanish finally surrendered and the Philippines declared its independence.

In the early 20th century, Biliran became part of the newly established province of Samar and Leyte. It was only in 1992 that it was granted full provincial status as the Province of Biliran.

Today, Biliran is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and hot springs. The island’s rich cultural heritage is also celebrated through various festivals such as the Padul-ong Festival, which is held annually in honor of the town’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador.