Burauen is a municipality located in the province of Leyte, which is part of the Eastern Visayas region in the Philippines. It is located about 38 kilometers southwest of Tacloban City, the regional center of Eastern Visayas.

The town of Burauen has a rich history that dates back to the Spanish colonial period. It was founded in the early 16th century by the Augustinian friars who established a mission in the area. Burauen was also the site of a major battle during World War II, which saw the Allied forces successfully pushing back the Japanese army.

Today, Burauen is a thriving municipality that is known for its scenic landscapes, natural attractions, and cultural heritage. It is home to several notable landmarks and tourist destinations, such as the Burauen Church, which is a centuries-old Catholic church that features a unique blend of Spanish and Filipino architecture.

In addition, Burauen is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, hills, and rivers. The nearby Mount Alto Peak is a popular hiking destination that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Overall, Burauen is a great place to visit for anyone who wants to explore the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Philippines.

How to get there?

To get there, you can take a flight to Tacloban City and then travel by bus or van to Burauen. The travel time is approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. You can also take a direct bus from Manila to Burauen, which takes around 24 hours. Once you arrive in Burauen, you can explore the town and its surrounding areas, which offer scenic views and attractions such as the Burauen Hot Spring and the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park.

History

The town has a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial era. Here’s a brief overview of the history of Burauen Leyte:

• Pre-colonial era: Before the arrival of the Spanish, Burauen was already inhabited by the native Waray people. The town was known as “Mabunga,” which means “fruitful” in Waray.
• Spanish colonial era: In the late 16th century, the Spanish colonizers arrived in the Philippines and established the town of Burauen. The town was officially founded on September 15, 1571, and was named “Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Burauen” after the town’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Assumption. The Spanish built a church and a convent in the town, which served as the center of religious and political power.
• American colonial era: In 1901, the Philippines was ceded to the United States by Spain, and Burauen became a part of the Leyte province. During this period, the town experienced significant economic growth due to the establishment of coconut plantations and the construction of roads and bridges.
• World War II: During the Second World War, Burauen was occupied by the Japanese Imperial Army. The town was liberated by American forces in 1945.
• Post-war era: After the war, Burauen continued to develop, with improvements in infrastructure and the establishment of new businesses. In 1957, the town was elevated to the status of a municipality.

Today, Burauen is a thriving town with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. The town is known for its natural beauty, including its hot springs, waterfalls, and scenic mountain views.