Tucked along the western coast of Leyte, there is Baybay City. It is not always at the forefront of travel lists, but it has been growing steadily nonetheless. And every year on June 16, the city pauses to celebrate Charter Day, marking the anniversary of the day it was officially incorporated as a city.
This occurred in 2007, following some legal back-and-forth that culminated in the Supreme Court’s confirmation that Baybay had met the requirements. It became a component city, and since then, the community has embraced its new status.
On Charter Day, the local government usually hosts a formal program. There are speeches, cultural performances, and recognition of individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to the city. Schools sometimes take part in parades or shows, and local performers or community groups are invited to showcase their talents. It is an opportunity for the city to showcase its progress and bring people together.
You might also see small fairs or booths set up around the plaza, sometimes selling food, crafts, or showcasing local businesses. Social media pages get busier than usual as events get streamed or shared. There is a sense of pride, but it stays grounded. People show up, watch, and connect, without the pressure to turn it into something over-the-top.
Baybay has undergone significant changes over the years. It is now home to a state university, a growing port, and a mix of rural and commercial areas. But even with all that, it still moves at a calm pace. Charter Day feels like a reflection of that. It serves as a public reminder that the city has made progress, but it has not forgotten its roots.
[Photo by Paolo Comaling]
