Baybay City, Leyte, Philippines

Baybay City, Leyte is within Region VIII – Eastern Visayas, in the Republic of the Philippines.

Barangays of City Of Baybay, in the Leyte province, within Region VIII (Eastern Visayas) in the Republic of The Philippines

People of Baybay City

As of the 2020 Census, Baybay City had a population of 111,848.
In 2015, the city recorded a population of 109,160, reflecting a modest growth over five years.
Baybay is historically home to the Baybayon people, a subgroup of the Waray-Waray ethnolinguistic group. The area also has indigenous ties to early riverine and coastal communities that predate Spanish colonization.
The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, with Waray-Waray present in some barangays. While these dialects shape local identity, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Baybay City

Baybay City is located on the western coast of Leyte Island in the Eastern Visayas Region (Region VIII). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.68°N latitude and 124.80°E longitude.
The city spans a land area of 459.34 square kilometers, making it the second largest city in Leyte and fourth largest in Region VIII. Its terrain includes coastal plains, forested hills, and river systems, with Mount Pangasugan rising prominently in the east. The climate is tropical monsoon, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
The Baybay City Hall is located in Barangay Gaas, along Diversion Road, near the Land Transportation District Office and Baybay Catholic Cemetery.
Most people reach Baybay via land transport. It is accessible by bus and van from Tacloban City (approximately 3–4 hours) and Ormoc City (about 1 hour). The nearest airport is Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban. The Port of Baybay serves inter-island vessels connecting to Cebu and other Visayan provinces.

Tourist Attractions of Baybay City

Mt. Pangasugan: A biodiversity hotspot ideal for hiking and ecological research.
16,000 Blossoms: A scenic flower garden in Barangay Lintaon offering panoramic views of the city and Camotes Sea.
Lintaon Peak: Known for its sea of clouds and sunrise views, located in Barangay Villa Solidaridad.
Gintingasan Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall in Barangay Pangasugan, popular for trekking and nature photography.
Ka Miguel Paradise: A natural spring and eco-resort in Barangay Amguhan.
Baybay City Charter Day: Celebrated every June 16, commemorating the city’s conversion through Republic Act No. 9389. Festivities include parades, cultural shows, and civic events.

Economy of Baybay City

Baybay’s economy is anchored in:
- Agriculture: The city is a major producer of coconut, rice, abaca, and root crops.
- Education and research: Home to Visayas State University, a leading institution in agricultural and environmental sciences.
- Trade and services: Local markets, transport hubs, and small businesses support daily commerce.
- Eco-tourism: Natural attractions and cultural sites contribute to seasonal income.
In the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index, Baybay ranked 37th in Economic Dynamism and 58th overall among component cities nationwide.

Educational Institutions of Baybay City

Young residents pursue higher education at:
- Visayas State University (VSU): A premier state university offering programs in agriculture, engineering, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and education. It has five campuses and ranks among the top 20 universities in the Philippines.
- Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception: A private Catholic institution offering liberal arts, teacher education, and business programs.
- TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Baybay City

Baybay was founded in 1620 by Jesuit missionaries from the “residencia” of Carigara, making it one of the earliest Spanish settlements on the western coast of Leyte. The area was known to Magellan’s crew and became a focal point for religious and civic development.
In 1835, the Immaculate Conception Parish was established, followed by the construction of the Punta Chapel in 1852. These religious institutions played a central role in shaping the city’s cultural identity.
Baybay was incorporated as a town in 1910 and later converted into a component city through Republic Act No. 9389 on June 16, 2007. Its cityhood was briefly revoked in 2008 and 2010, but was affirmed by the Supreme Court on February 15, 2011.
Today, Baybay is known for its blend of natural beauty, academic excellence, and agricultural vitality. It continues to grow as a center for eco-tourism, education, and civic innovation in Western Leyte.

Elected Officials of Baybay City

As of the 2025 elections, Baybay City is led by:
- Mayor: Jose Carlos L. Cari
- Vice Mayor: Ernesto M. Butawan
- Representative (5th District of Leyte): Carl Nicolas C. Cari
- City Councilors: Carmen L. Cari, Romulo B. Alcala, Fulton Ike C. Arradaza, Edgardo R. Ompoy, Rodulfo S. Palma, Vicente Victor G. Veloso, Dominador K. Murillo, Jorge V. Rebucas, Filemon F. Avila, Arturo Elisa O. Astorga, Jose Rommel A. Peñaranda
For full election results and updates, visit: Baybay City Election Results.

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.

List of Cities in the Philippines