TRAVEL Siargao
With its enchanting lagoons, cerulean waters and world-class surfing spots, Siargao proves to be a dream destination with an unparalleled beauty, a scenic island that deserves the many accolades it has earned in recent years. The surfing capital of the Philippines landed on Time Magazine’s “The World’s 100 Greatest Places of 2021” list and Vogue Paris’ 10 islands to go on vacation this summer. In October 2021, it topped the charts of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Islands: Readers’ Choice Awards 2021 in Asia.
Siargao is home to the famous Cloud 9 Surf Break, where surfers from all over the globe flock to enjoy the mighty Pacific Ocean waves. Off the coast of the municipality of General Luna is the majestic Mam-on Island, an idyllic refuge with the finest white sands and the clearest, bluest waters, as well as the captivating Daku, Guyam and Naked Islands that evoke a laidback vibe. Corregidor Island, on the other hand, boasts beautiful coves, palm tree-covered hills and beautiful beaches well-loved by its adventure-seeking guests.
Tourism in Siargao started to flourish years before the pandemic and during this time, several resorts, restaurants and small businesses have blossomed there. However, just like the rest of the world, the restrictions brought about by the pandemic made a major impact on the island’s tourismdependent economy. “This pandemic came as a surprise and drastically affected the lives of both the locals and foreigners who have found home in the island. However, amidst the confusion and anxiety, the Siargaonons did not flinch in their resiliency and perseverance. The pandemic stimulated the people’s drive to help those who are in need,” says Nelia Arina, regional director of the Department of Tourism in Caraga.
With the strict implementation of health protocols, Siargao has started reopening gradually. “People, especially the tourism industry workers, see a ray of sunlight as tourists start to flock the island. The local economy is slowly picking up and the tourism related establishments are now keeping their businesses afloat,” she adds, her voice full of hope. In this time of uncertainty, the tranquil island of Siargao still beckons.