Comprehensive Reviewer: Samar
Province
1. General Information
Samar, also known as Western Samar, is a province in the Eastern Visayas region of the
Philippines. Its capital is Catbalogan City. Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines
and is bounded by Northern Samar to the north, Eastern Samar to the east, and Leyte to the
south across the San Juanico Strait.
2. History
Samar was among the earliest islands visited by Spanish colonizers. It became part of the
Leyte-Samar province in the Spanish era. The island has witnessed the Philippine
Revolution, the American and Japanese occupations, and was severely affected during
World War II. The province was split into three: Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and
Western Samar (simply called Samar). In 1965, the San Juanico Bridge was constructed,
linking Samar and Leyte.
In modern times, Samar has continued to grow in infrastructure and governance, while also
facing natural challenges such as Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, which devastated many towns,
especially Marabut and Basey.
3. Geography and Population
Samar has a rugged terrain with forests, rivers, and caves. It is known for the Samar Island
Natural Park. The province has a growing population and a mix of rural and urban
settlements, with Catbalogan and Calbayog being the main cities.
4. Economy and Infrastructure
Samar’s economy is largely agricultural, focusing on rice, coconut, and fisheries.
Infrastructure developments include roads, bridges, and the San Juanico Bridge. Post-
Yolanda, many rebuilding efforts improved schools, evacuation centers, and housing.
5. Culture and Festivals
Samar is rich in culture and tradition. The Tandaya Festival celebrates its pre-colonial name,
and Samar Day is celebrated every August to commemorate its founding as a province.
Traditional dances, music, and cuisine are integral to Samar’s identity.
6. Municipalities
Samar has 24 municipalities and 2 cities: Calbayog and Catbalogan. Each municipality has
its own history and culture. Notable towns include Basey (known for banig weaving),
Marabut (with beautiful rock formations), and Paranas (jump-off for Torpedo boat ride).
7. Colonial and Wartime History
During Spanish colonization, Samar was evangelized and integrated into colonial
governance. The American era brought education reforms and infrastructure. The island
suffered during the Japanese occupation in World War II, with guerrilla resistance and
major battles.
8. Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan)
Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) hit Samar on November 8, 2013. It caused massive destruction,
especially in Basey and Marabut. Thousands were displaced, and numerous lives were lost.
Recovery efforts included international aid and government rebuilding projects. The
disaster emphasized the importance of disaster risk reduction and climate resilience.
9. Fun Facts
- Samar is home to the Philippines’ longest bridge, the San Juanico Bridge.
- The Sohoton Caves in Basey are a popular ecotourism destination.
- The Torpedo Extreme Boat Ride in Paranas is a thrilling adventure activity.
- Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines.
