Vice Gov. says Palo can be Leyte’s next capital

LEYTE Vice Gov. Carlo Loreto said that Palo town is ready to become the next capital of the province, considering its historical significance and improving economic condition.

Loreto was reacting to a proposal endorsed by Palo Councilor Wilson Uy to make the town as the next provincial capital considering that Tacloban City, the current provincial capital, has now ceased to be under the control and supervision of the Provincial Government.

Since its reclassification into a highly urbanized city in 2008, Tacloban is now administratively independent from the provincial capital.

Loreto said the decision still needs the approval of the Provincial Board.

“I say that Palo is already ripe for it. Historically speaking and economic wise, the town is ready to be Leyte’s next provincial capital. But the resolution has to be discussed by the body and go by whatever is the consensus of the majority,” Loreto added.

Loreto said various landmarks and other developments in Palo make its economic atmosphere more vibrant than it was before.

Palo was declared twice as provincial capital before Tacloban City. The first was in 1768 when Leyte and Samar were declared separate provinces, with Palo named Leyte’s capital. On April 22, 1901 when the civil government was established during the American occupation, Palo was Leyte’s administrative seat.

Palo’s annual income is now over P55 million and play host to various commercial and business establishments, IT park, government offices, schools, and residential subdivisions.

Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla earlier said they are accepting the challenge for Palo’s becoming Leyte’s next capital.

“Palo may still not qualify to become a city but it can qualify as provincial capital. And our town is continuously growing,” the mayor said.

The mayor added that the proposal to make Palo as the new provincial capital would entail a long process, but she said it is a good idea to transfer the provincial capital to further boost Leyte’s development.