Legazpi Tourist Information
Since being declared a city on June 12, 1959, Legazpi City has grown tremendously, with
facilities rivaling that of any first class city and at the same time boasting of a host of tourist
attractions and a rich cultural heritage.
Infrastructure
The competitiveness of Legazpi City has been recognized by several organizations and
institutions, including the Asian Institute of Management, and the influential Philippine Chamber
of Commerce and Industry. The ever increasing potential of the city can be seen by the fact that
it has been cited as a Special Economic Zone and is also one of the vital cogs of the
Bicol Regional Agro Industrial Center.
Another boon for the city is the Legazpi City International Airport, which is projected to help
increase the already considerable number of tourists and foreign investors in the metropolis.
The communication infrastructure and facilities are first rate. Cable television, mobile phone
services, and broadband Internet access are widely available. This has led to the influx of a
wide range of TV and radio stations in the city.
Economy
The well established infrastructure of Legazpi City has naturally led to a more robust economy.
The largest mall in Bicol is in the city. There are also plenty of shops, eateries, shops and
cinema houses. The Embarcadero is a complex that was designed to showcase the best in
Information Technology.
The Albay Astrodome is one of the many sports facilities in the city, and is often the site of
basketball games and other recreational activities. There are also government edifices, and
offices holding both the most renowned local and foreign companies. There is no shortage of
banks in the city either, as over 40 of the most established in the country have opened
branches there.
Another indication of the vigorous economic status are the large number of bus companies that
have opened shop. As one would expect in any modern city, there are numerous taxi cabs, taxi
cabs, tricycles and jeepneys, ready to take people wherever they need to go.
Education & Health Services
One of the strengths of Legazpi City is its highly qualified workforce, brought about by an
abundance of quality schools and universities. Aquinas University of Legazpi, Divine World
College, Bicol University, Bicol Christian College of Medicine, St. Agnes Academy and STI are
among the most well known.
There are several first class hospitals and medical facilities in the city, including the Legazpi Eye
Center, Aquinas University Hospital, St. Theresa Hospital and Estevez General Hospital.
Historical Overview
The earliest known records would suggest that the original inhabitants of the area mostly
settled in Sawangan. Not much is known about the tribe, except that it was ruled by a chieftain
called Gat Ibal, whose dominion extended throughout most of Albay province.
Based on archeological information, the people lived in groups, and most resided in small nipa
huts. The excavated remains showed that most dwelled in the lowlands.
In 1565, the Spanish conquistador, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi came to the land, and became
captivated with the place that he named it after himself. It would become one of the centers of
economic and religious activities throughout the Spanish era.
In 1942, the Japanese Imperial Army invaded Albay and took over, including the capital city. The
locals would engage in guerrilla warfare during the next three years and contribute to its
liberation in 1945 with the arrival of the American and Philippine forces.
Facts & Figures
- Province: Albay (Region 5)
- Barangays: currently there are 70
- Foundation Day: June 12, 1959
- Total land area: 200. sq. km (120 sq. m)
- Estimated Population: over 220,000
- Geographical Location: Legazpi City is situated in between Masbate and the island of
Catanduanes.
- Major Tourist Attractions: Mayon Volcano, Penaranda Park, Plaza Rizal, Bicol Heritage Park,
Liberty Bell
PICTURE