Samar Western Highway

National Highway in Samar

The western highway between Catbalogan, Calbayog and Allen is being worked on but it still is in rough condition. There have been dramatic improvements the past 12 months, however.

One constant in Samar is the steady supply of rain so the road conditions vary depending on how wet they are.

This section is near San Jorge.

There has been a big push to upgrade the road system in Samar this year and it is very nice from Motiong southwards to the San Juanico Bridge.

Is is still an unpleasant ride between Catbalogan and Calbayog.

The scenery along this route is great because you pass over endless rivers and can see what’s going on down there.

These rivers are the life of Samar and almost all villages and towns are located where they meet the sea.

The road system is the connection to Manila from all corners of the Philippines. The buses run all the way to Davao in Mindanao.

For those that stay in the province, there is a greater dependence on boat travel.

Catbalogan fish market – interesting youtube video

The easiest way to get around any city in Samar is to use the tricycle.

The fare is 4 pesos per person at this time. There has been a recent increase from the standard 3 peso.

diving for coins in the harbor at Allen Samar – video at the ferry pier

In Allen you can catch a ferry to Luzon. Buses and other vehicles drive on to the ferry while the passengers get off and sit in the upper level.

The bus fare will include the passage across.

If you take your own vehicle have a copy of the registration and pay port fees and passage. A bill of lading for the cargo (your vehicle) will be issued.

Samar Western Highway