"The Leyte Provincial Capitol is a beautiful neo classical building located in Tacloban City and it has a lot of historical significance. Designed by renowned architect Antonio Mañalac Toledo, its beauty is defined by a stunning facade featuring a colonnade of Ionic columns and intricate bas-relief sculptures. The building's architecture also reflects the American colonial era, reflecting a style that was popular for government buildings at the time. That's why its aesthetic is similar to the two National Museums erected in Manila City. Its most notable role came during the American Occupation and the pivotal events of World War II. After General Douglas MacArthur fulfilled his promise to return by landing in Leyte in 1944, the Capitol building became the temporary seat of the Philippine Commonwealth government. From October 1944 to February 1945, it served as the center of Philippine governance. Inside this very building, a historic moment occurred when General MacArthur formally swore in Sergio Osmeña as the President of the Philippines, symbolizing the re-establishment of the Commonwealth on Philippine's liberated soil. Today, while a new capitol has been constructed, the old building stands as a powerful monument to the resilience of the Filipino people and the crucial role Leyte played in the country's liberation. I hope this building will be restored and be accessible to the public very soon."

Besinga, Joshua Gabriel P.

"The Old Leyte Capitol is an architectural gem and a landmark in Leyte Province. Designed by architect Antonio M. Toledo, this neo-classical building was constructed in 1924 and expanded in 1964 and features a façade with ten Ionic columns and a bas-relief that depicts scenes from the first mass in Limasawa and the Leyte Landing. The whole site is rich in details and ornamentations. There are fountains with sculptures on both sides of the plaza, although they are not functioning, and the water is murky. Two cannons adorn both sides of the main building. The interior of the main building is just as impressive. The majestic staircase on the second floor is decorated with Corinthian columns and pilasters, intricate wrought-iron railings, and coats of arms. The Governor's Hall, also known as the Ball Room, is spacious and features carved bas-reliefs, sculptures, a wooden floor, and sunken ceilings.

The Capitol became the seat of the Philippine Commonwealth Government from October 23, 1944 to February 27, 1945 and served as the Capitol of the Philippines.

Unfortunately, the building is closed, as the provincial government has relocated to a new site in Palo, Leyte. As of this writing, exploring inside the building is prohibited. However, visitors are welcome to roam freely in the Capitol's plaza or forecourt to admire the beautiful architecture of the Old Leyte Capitol. Fortunately, there are plans to renovate the building and convert it into a museum."

Matt Yepes

"Nice place, full of history.. This is the old capitol, there's a newly constructed capitol which is spacious and bigger."

Cenon Oliver