September 4th, 2009
Tantalising Tacloban
Tacloban is a port city located in the region of Eastern Visayas. It was once called “Kankabatok”, which was taken from the name of the Kabatok people, the area’s earliest inhabitants. The name of the city was changed during the Spanish regime in the early part of the 18th century, and it became known as Tacloban. The word was derived from “taklub” or “taraklub”, which means “to cover something” in the local dialect. Native fishermen at that time used to catch fish, shrimp, and crab by covering them with a handmade contraption, and they referred to the place where they did these activities as the “tarakluban”. Over time, the term was used to refer to the entire city.
The city has its own unique place in Philippine history. It served as the capital of the Commonwealth Government from 1944 till 1945. It was also the first town in the country to be liberated from the Japanese forces during the Second World War when the American general, Douglas MacArthur, returned to the Philippines when the tide of war turned in the Pacific.
Today, Tacloban is a busy, progressive city with all the trappings of modernity and development. When you come to visit the region, you will discover a number of cultural and historical attractions which you would certainly enjoy exploring. You would also find many of nature’s delights in the area such as stunning beaches and amazing sunsets. So get ready for an adventure that you will never forget. Journey to Tacloban and be mesmerised.
