Along the quiet coast of Barangay Candahug stands one of the Philippines’ most iconic monuments — the MacArthur Leyte Landing Memorial National Park, a place where history and remembrance converge with tourism and well-being.

The site commemorates Gen. Douglas MacArthur’s historic landing on Oct. 20, 1944, during World War II. Today, it is more than a war memorial — it is a symbol of national pride, a destination for travelers, and a growing contributor to sustainable tourism in Eastern Visayas.

Stepping Into History and Reflection

Seven bronze statues — twice the size of an average person — rise from a shallow pool at Red Beach, marking the location where MacArthur kept his promise: “I shall return.” The statues depict MacArthur and six other notable figures from his entourage. A museum adjacent to the site houses wartime photographs, MacArthur memorabilia, and a replica of his famous landing speech.

For many visitors, the memorial serves as a quiet space to reflect, not only on the country’s wartime past, but also on personal battles.

“Being here brings perspective,” said Lilia Francisco, a Manila resident visiting for the first time. “It helps you think about resilience — of a nation and of oneself. It’s strangely peaceful.”

Mental health professionals have long advocated for historical tourism and cultural immersion as ways to enhance mindfulness and emotional wellness. The park’s calm coastal setting, paired with its solemn significance, makes it a natural spot for both contemplation and relaxation.

Getting There and Around

The park is accessible via the Pan-Philippine Highway (AH26) and is only about 20 minutes from Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City. Regular flights from Manila to Tacloban make travel convenient for tourists across the country. Public transport, rental cars, and local tour packages also make the site easily reachable.

The nearby provincial capital, Tacloban, offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to more upscale hotels like The Oriental Leyte, situated just across the park. Restaurants and business centers are also within reach, making the area friendly to both leisure travelers and event organizers.

Supporting the Local Economy

While the memorial honors an international wartime legacy, its present-day impact is very much local.

“We’ve seen an increase in tourism-related employment over the years,” said Ana Lopez, who works at a souvenir kiosk near the park. “During peak seasons, our whole barangay is active — from tour guides to small food vendors.”

Local artisans have also found opportunities through souvenir production and guided tour services. The annual Leyte Landing reenactment draws domestic and international visitors and has become a source of revenue for hotels, restaurants and transportation providers.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

Since its declaration as a national park in 1977, and later as a national historic landmark, the MacArthur Landing Memorial has served as a focal point for Eastern Visayas’ heritage conservation efforts.

Local government units have coordinated with the Department of Tourism and the National Historical Commission to ensure that preservation goes hand-in-hand with accessibility. After Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) damaged one of the statues in 2013, swift restoration work was completed within three weeks, underscoring the value placed on the monument’s upkeep.

Plans are also underway to enhance the surrounding park area with eco-friendly amenities and more interpretive signage that supports educational tourism.

The Best Time to Visit

The dry months of November to May are ideal for visiting, especially during October when the annual Leyte Landing commemoration is held. Visitors during this period can witness military parades, cultural performances and a reenactment of the historic landing — all reinforcing the region’s rich heritage.

As the Philippines continues to promote regional tourism, destinations like the MacArthur Landing Memorial stand as reminders that travel can do more than entertain. It can educate, heal, and empower communities — one visit at a time.

By Jaja Agpalo