Siargao: Surf stronghold of the Philippines in the change

Siargao has made a name for itself since 1980 as the "Surf capital of the Philippines" when surf photographer Tony Arruza and the surfer Steve Jones visited the island in search of the "perfect wave". They were lucky, because the two pioneers of surfing spread the news about the multitude of perfect waves, the surfers from all over the world attracted to General Luna, the coastal city and goal to Siargao. Today the magnetic energy of the island - a mixture of natural beauty, community and adventure - continues to attract visitors to the southeastern Philippines, whereby the numbers are growing exponentially annually.

growth of tourism on Siargao

Tourism on Siargao has been subject to a remarkable increase, from around 13,600 international arrivals in 2012 to almost 54,000 in 2023. The domestic trips have also risen, from almost 124,000 visitors in 2018 to over 476,000 in 2023 - an amazing increase for an island with around 150,000 inhabitants. And there are further changes, including a cruise terminal, airport expansions and larger resort developments.

sustainability in focus

"It is great to see that Siargao is recognized, but it is crucial to keep the natural beauty and close community of the island," says Wemar Bonono, a 28-year-old professional surfer and co-founder of the Pacifico Surf Bayay, Bigwish Surf School, Pacifico Surf School, Swell Snackbar Crew. "We saw what happened to other holiday destinations. As long as we prioritize sustainability, environmentally friendly initiatives and responsible tourism, Siargao can thrive without losing its charm."

Community-oriented resort development

Ian Sermonia and Mike Medina, school friends from Manila, opened a surf resort in 2013 that combines their love for hospitality and surfing. "After looking for the perfect place for Harana, we fell in love with Siargao," reports Sermonia. "The island opened its heart for us." When the Harana Surf Resort was opened in 2015, they became the first Philippine from Manila to open a surf resort there. Nevertheless, they tried to integrate into the local community.

empowerment of the next generation

Bonono, who grew up in Siargao, spent his days at the Big Wish Beach in Pacifico. At the age of nine, he began to practice surfing with cardboard until he could borrow a surfboard from friends. After a difficult school period, he founded the Sun Crew in 2017, a local non-profit organization that teaches children to surf as long as they go to school and take part in weekend beaches.

protection of livelihood on site

Kara Rosas, born in Manila, came for a voluntary commitment to Siargao in 2019 and helped build up the Bayatakan Farm Experience, a practical project for agriculture and cultural exchange. Together with the owner Analyn Dulpina, they wanted to make sure that over 80 % of the food offered in their snack bar comes from the island to support local food production.

nature conservation and combating plastic waste

siargao houses the largest mangrove forests in the Philippines. Despite the protection status, there are challenges such as waste management and plastic pollution. "The more tourists reach the island, the more plastic waste is attached," says Lady Carmel Litang, who is committed to Sea Movement.

The future Siargao’s

Despite the challenges of rapid tourism growth, there is hope among Siargao's residents. After devastating the Super-Taifun Rai in December 2021, donations flow into the region and make an important contribution to restoring the island. A comprehensive tourism master plan was developed in 2017 to create a timetable for balanced growth, which has not yet been implemented.

"It is really unfortunate," says Felino A. Palafox, Jr., who is behind the plan. "The government has to implement the plan quickly - every new building on Siargao should outperform the building regulations to withstand superai, earthquakes and tsunamis."

Sermonia agreed that this plan Siargao can steer in a positive direction. "The community is strong, but the leadership has to prioritize sustainable practices," he says. "Ultimately, politicians will decide where to go with Siargao."

In the meantime, Siargao is at a turning point. "Hundreds of hotel rooms are not necessarily bad if they are environmentally friendly and the locals feel part of growth," summarizes Sermonia. "I really believe that the warmth of the locals, surf culture and respect for nature and the environment are characterized by the island. If politicians continue to appreciate and protect this culture, Siargao will be on the right track."

Bonono agrees with this opinion and emphasizes the progress in the community, which makes up for the preservation of the beauty of the island, while growth benefits everyone.