LEYTE PROVINCE and island, one of the largest and most fertile regions in the Visayan group, is situated southwest of Samar and is separated from Samar by the San Juanico Strait, said to be one of the most beautiful water-ways in the world. Hemp and copra are the most important products exported. Coal is found in the towns of Leyte, Ormoc, and Jaro. Asphalt is being mined in Leyte for street paving purposes. Gold is found in Pintuyan and San Isidro; sulphur in Mahagnao; mineral springs in the crater of Mahagnao, Ormoc, San Isidro, Mainit, and Carigara. [Where Mass First Celebrated] Limasawa, a little island south of Leyte, has the unique distinction of being the place where mass was first celebrated in the Philippines. Toward the end of March, 1521, Magellan discovered this little island, which then appeared to be a prosperous community. It was here that Magellan met Raja Calambu and Ciagu, who feasted the Spaniards and exchanged presents with them. The Island of Leyte itself, then called Tandaya, was the first island of the Philippine Archipelago to receive the name of "Felipina." THE ISLAND OF MINDANAO.--This island is the second largest and potentially perhaps the richest of the archipelago. It is divided into seven provinces--Zamboanga, Misamis, Lanao, Bukidnon, Cotabato, Davao, Agusan, and Surigao. [Origin of Name] The term "Mindanao" or "Maguindanao" was originally given to the town now known as Cotabato and its immediate vicinity. (See page 104.) The word is derived from the root "danao" which means inundation by a river, lake, or sea. The derivative "Mindanao" means "inundated" or "that which is inundated." "Maguindanao" means "that which has inundated." [Islam] Islam was successfully introduced and firmly established in Mindanao by Sharif Mohammed Kabungsuwan. He is believed to have established himself in this region toward the end of the fifteenth century. He was also the founder of the Sultanate so that today most of the inhabitants of Mindanao are Mohammedans. The Christian population came from the northern islands. They immigrated into Mindanao to exploit the rich sections of the islands. They have built their homes along the river basins and near the bays accessible to commerce. In many cases they hold the important municipal positions such as tax-collectors and teachers. The Moros who inhabit the interior valleys have acknowledged the authority of their Christian brothers from the north and are living peacefully with them.