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Samar Town Cleared of Rebels—Why Are Tourists Flocking In?

Would you believe that a town once feared for being dangerous is now one of the most visited tourist spots in Samar? That’s exactly what’s happening in Matuguinao, a small town that used to be known as a hideout for rebels — but is now becoming a peaceful and beautiful place people want to visit! 🌿💧✨

💥 From Danger Zone to Tourist Zone

For many years, people were afraid to go to Matuguinao. The town was once full of fear because it was known as a base for rebel fighters from the New People’s Army (NPA). Almost all of its 20 villages were affected by rebel presence.

But now? Things have totally changed.

Thanks to a strong partnership between the local government, military, and police, they worked very hard to bring peace to the town. Mayor Aran Boller said they focused on erasing the scary image of their town — and it’s finally paying off.

🏞️ Building Beauty: Cold Springs Turned into Tourist Spots

To show everyone that Matuguinao is now peaceful, the town turned its natural cold springs into tourist spots!

🌊 Matugnaw Spring – the first cold spring resort
🌿 Maslog Cold Spring – the second resort
🔨 A third spring is now being developed!

Since they opened the resorts in 2021, the town has recorded over 66,000 daytime visitors! 😮
In 2024 alone, they had 15,084 tourists, ranking them 12th in Samar’s top tourism destinations!

🏕️ What’s Next? Waterfalls, Caves & More!

But they’re not stopping there!
The town is now preparing even more exciting spots for tourists like:

Caves 🕳️
Waterfalls 💦
Nature adventures 🌳

They’ve also asked help from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) to fund more eco-tourism projects!

🏠 Can You Stay Overnight?

Right now, the town only allows day tours because there are no hotels yet.
But the mayor is asking people who have money to build rooms or inns, so guests can stay longer.

Some local homes are already renting out rooms, and by next year, the town hopes to have its first real accommodation facility.

🚗 Easier Than Ever to Visit

Before, you had to ride a boat for four hours just to reach Matuguinao. Now?
Thanks to a new road project from the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan program, it only takes 30 minutes by land from the main road of Samar Island! 🚙💨

🕊️ Peace is Possible

Mayor Boller said that while the NPA once controlled most of their villages, all communities are now free from rebel influence. Only four villages are still being watched closely.

There are just six known rebel members left who are from Matuguinao, and even they are not causing trouble anymore. In fact, the town is working on a peace talk to help them return to normal life — with help from their families.