Leyte Landing Memorial

Commonly known as MacArthur Park, this site stands as a prominent landmark in Leyte. It houses the renowned bronze statue of General Douglas MacArthur, commemorating his historic return to Leyte on October 20, 1944. Alongside the fearless General, statues of his landing Filipino companions—President Sergio Osmeña, General Carlos Romulo, and four soldiers—are also erected. Recognized for its immense historical significance, the park was designated as a National Historical Landmark in 2004. Inscribed on a marble wall in front of the bronze statues is General MacArthur’s enduring promise to return, a pledge cherished by all Leyteños. This promise, fulfilled yet timeless, continues to inspire hope in the hearts of the present generation.

The Transfiguration of Our Lord Cathedral

The Palo Cathedral is not only a religious landmark but also a significant historical edifice. During the Second World War, the church served as a hospital for the wounded from October 1944 to March 1945. In November 2013, the church was among those that were heavily damaged, but even so, the same still became the refuge of several survivors. The church grounds also served as the last resting place of those who perished because of the typhoon. Pope Francis himself visited the Cathedral on Janaury 17, 2015 and blessed the grave site where the victims of Typhoon Yolanda were buried. It is also in the same year, 2015 that the Palo Cathedral was declared as one of the pilgrim churches of the archdiocese by Archbishop John F. Du.