A 20-minute boat ride off the coast of Inopacan leads to a hidden gem in Eastern Visayas — Digyo Island, the smallest and perhaps the most charming of the Cuatro Islas. Framed by stretches of powdery white sand and flanked by two natural sandbars, Digyo offers the kind of quiet tropical escape that is increasingly sought after by travelers in search of peace, healing and sunshine.
Locals fondly call it “Little Boracay,” but Digyo, unlike its famous counterpart, thrives in its simplicity and community-led tourism. Its shorelines remain clean and uncrowded, with crystal-clear shallows perfect for swimming, snorkeling or simply watching the tide roll in.
Rest and Recovery by the Sea
Travel has long been associated with improved mental health, and Digyo Island is no exception. The combination of sunlight, saltwater, and the sound of waves provides a natural balm to modern-day stress. Travelers often speak of how the serenity of the island — free from noise and clutter — allows them to recharge emotionally and mentally.
“There’s no Wi-Fi, but the disconnection is the point,” said Noreen P., a visitor from Ormoc. “You realize how much your body and mind crave silence and nature.”
The early mornings are especially rewarding, with sunrise painting the sea in pastel hues. Guests can walk barefoot along the sandbars or set up tents along the beach. While modest, the island offers essentials — cottages for rent, sari-sari stores, and even small eateries selling fresh catch.
Travel Made Simple
Digyo is accessible year-round, but the dry season from December to May is the ideal window for calm seas and clear skies. From Tacloban City, the provincial capital, travelers can take a two-hour van ride to Inopacan Port, where boats await to ferry visitors to Cuatro Islas. Boat rentals typically cost around P3,000 to P3,500 depending on group size and itinerary.
Flights to Tacloban are available daily from Manila and Cebu, with travel time ranging from 45 minutes to a little over an hour. From the airport, local transport such as vans and buses provide easy transfers to nearby towns, making Digyo a feasible getaway even for weekend travelers.
Boosting the Local Economy
What makes Digyo stand out is how its community benefits directly from tourism. Local boat operators, food vendors, and souvenir sellers all rely on visitor traffic. For residents like Melchor Reyes, a father of four and a licensed boatman, the influx of tourists offers not only income but a reason to remain in his hometown.
“Because of the guests, I don’t have to leave Leyte to find work,” Reyes said. “We get to raise our families here and take pride in what we have.”
Cottage rentals, island guides, and small businesses on the island are mostly run by Inopacan locals. This direct participation means tourism helps fund school fees, household expenses, and even infrastructure improvements.
Sustainable by Design
Digyo Island is not without its challenges — waste management, overcrowding during peak season, and resource preservation are ongoing concerns. In response, local officials have implemented waste segregation policies and limit the number of visitors per day during high season.
“There’s growing awareness that we need to take care of Digyo, or it won’t stay this beautiful,” said barangay official Liza Torres. “We encourage guests to bring reusable containers and avoid single-use plastics.”
Volunteer clean-up drives and educational campaigns are slowly becoming the norm, and more travelers are becoming mindful of their environmental impact.
Rediscovering the Local
In a country of more than 7,000 islands, it’s easy to overlook a small patch of sand in Leyte. But Digyo Island’s charm lies in its accessibility, authenticity and the fact that it remains proudly community-owned. It reminds visitors that one doesn’t need to fly far to experience something unforgettable — sometimes, it’s just a boat ride away.
Whether you’re in need of rest, looking to support local livelihoods, or seeking a destination with heart, Digyo Island is a testament to how domestic tourism can bring joy, recovery and resilience to both travelers and hosts.
