Kalanggaman Island, Palompon, Leyte, One of the Philippines' Finest Beaches

If you happen to be in Malapascua, Daangbantayan, Cebu do not miss to make a side trip to Kalanggaman Island. Kalanggaman Island, which is already a part of Palompon, Leyte used to be part of Cebu but was yielded to the local government of Leyte because of its proximity to the province. While Kalanggaman Island is only an hour boat ride from Palompon mainland of Leyte, it is still accessible by boat from Malapascua Island of Cebu by two-hour ride. According to the island's caretaker, the place got its name because the pure powdery white sand island has two sand bars extending on both sides forming a "langgam" or bird's expanded wings. Others say, it got its name as the island used to be inhabited by migratory birds.

The part of the island facing Leyte is for swimming and the part facing Malapascua, Cebu is for snorkeling and diving.

The whole of Kalanggaman Island is only about 10 hectares and there are no permanent settlers in the island. The local government of Leyte has opened the island to tourists and local beach goers. There are available open cottages for rent at P250 (US$6.25) per cottage to provide visitors with ample protection from the elements. For the upkeep of the island minimal fees are being charged; P150 for locals and P500 (or US$12.50) for foreign tourists. Since there is still no electricity in the island people go there only for a day tour. However, for those who are more adventurous they can actually spend the night in the island with only the bare essentials.