Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Dinagat Island, CARAGA

Dinagat Island is a province in northeastern Mindanao. It consists of several islands, the largest and most important of which is Dinagat Island. The province has a population of around 127,000 and is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. Its economy is mainly based on agriculture, fishing, and mining, with nickel being the province's most important mineral resource. The province is also rich in cultural heritage with several historical sites and monuments including the Church of San Jose which dates back to Spanish colonial times.


The Best Time to Visit San Miguel, Surigao: A Seasonal Guide

San Miguel Community is a small but vibrant town in the Surigao del Sur Province of the Philippines. Known for its pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and friendly locals, San Miguel is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. San Miguel is located in the southeastern part of Surigao del Sur and borders the municipalities of Tandag, Cortés, and Lanuza. 

The city has a total area of ​​about 60.4 square kilometers and a population of around 12,000. Most residents speak Visayan, with a few other ethnic groups including Tagalog, Waray, and Surigaonon. 

Tourism is one of the main attractions of San Miguel in its beautiful beaches. The most famous of these is the Britannia Group of Islands, a collection of 24 islands and islets with crystal-clear waters and powder-white sand. The city boasts pristine beaches, natural wonders, and colorful festivals, making it a popular year-round travel destination. 

However, the best time to visit San Miguel depends on what you want to experience and what activities you want to do.   Here's a seasonal guide to help you plan your visit to San Miguel, Surigao:   

Summer (March to May)   

Summer in San Miguel is the high season for tourism. The climate is hot and dry, making it ideal for beach activities like swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping. The Britannia archipelago is a must-visit in summer and offers the ultimate island hopping experience.   

The rainy season (June to November)   

The rainy season in San Miguel begins in June and lasts until November. The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy rain. However, the rainy season is also the best time to see the falls and rivers in all their glory. The Tagbina Twin Falls is a must-see during the rainy season as the water flow peaks and makes for a spectacular sight.   

Typhoon Season (December to February)   

December to February is typhoon season in San Miguel, Surigao. Although typhoons rarely hit the city directly, the weather can be unpredictable with occasional showers and strong winds. However, this time of year is also a good time to experience the city's cultural wealth. 

The Kahimunan Festival is held every September 29th  while the Bonok-Bonok Maradjao Karadjao Festival is held every September 9th.  In general, the best time to visit San Miguel, Surigao depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience. Whether you want to soak up the sun, explore the natural wonders, or immerse yourself in the city's culture and traditions, San Miguel has something to offer year-round.


Tourism

Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the islands and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping. Other notable beaches in San Miguel include Santiago Bay, Lamesa Beach, and Bonsai Beach. 

Aside from the beaches, San Miguel also has natural wonders such as waterfalls and caves. The Tagbina Twin Falls in Barangay Tagbina is a must for the adventurous. The falls consist of two cascades that flow into a natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation. 

The Tagbina Cave, on the other hand, is a complex network of underground caves with impressive rock formations and stalactites. 


Culture and festivals 

San Miguel is a culturally rich city that celebrates various fiestas throughout the year. The most notable of these is the Kahimunan Festival, held every September 29 in honor of the city's patron saint, San Miguel. The festival features street dances, a grand parade, and various cultural performances showcasing the city's heritage. 

Another well-known festival in San Miguel is the Bonok-Bonok Maradjao Karadjao Festival, held every September 9th. The festival is a colorful celebration of people's resilience and unity in the face of disaster and challenge. Participants wear colorful costumes and dance to traditional music. 

Overall, San Miguel is a picturesque town with a unique combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. With its pristine beaches, natural wonders, and colorful festivals, San Miguel is a destination worth exploring for travelers looking to experience the best that Surigao del Sur offers.

An eco-tourism adventure in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur: Protecting the environment while having fun


San Agustin is a small town located in the northeastern part of Mindanao, Philippines. San Agustin is bounded by the municipalities of Tagvina to the north, Tandag to the east, Bayabas to the south, and Ringigig to the west. San Agustin's economy is primarily agricultural, with rice and corn being the main crops. Other crops are coconuts, abaca, fruits, and vegetables. Fishing and ranching are also important livelihoods. 

Marihatag's Natural Wonders: A Nature Lover's Paradise

Marihatag, Surigao del Sur is home to the Manobo and Visayan peoples, who have their own culture and traditions. Known for their weaving skills, the Manobo people make traditional clothing and accessories from abaca fibers. They also have a rich tradition of music and dance and are often performed at celebrations and festivals. 


A Guide to Madrid, Surigao

Madrid is a relatively small town with a population of about 12,000 in the province of Surigao de Sur

Madrid's history dates back to the early 1900s. It was established as a settlement for workers of forestry companies operating in the area. The city was named after the Spanish capital in honor of the Spanish officials who worked for the company. 

During  World War II, Madrid was occupied by the Japanese army, and the city suffered heavy damage during the conflict, resulting in the loss of many lives. After the war, Madrid began to rebuild and develop, becoming an important agricultural and commercial center. 

Today, Madrid is known for its beautiful natural attractions such as Lake Majao and Capihan Park, where visitors can relax and enjoy the beauty of the area. The city also hosts numerous festivals and cultural events, including the Majao Festival, which celebrates the history and culture of the city. 

Madrid is a peaceful and charming city where you can experience the rich history and culture of the Philippines.


The Kimzima Farm

Kimzima Farm is a newly developed privately owned farm located in Barangay Panayogon, Madrid, Surigao del Sur. The farm produces a variety of crops including rice, corn, and vegetables. 

The resort offers comfortable cottages and rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning, private bathrooms, and wireless internet. The cottages are surrounded by lush greenery and offer a calm and relaxing atmosphere. 

Kim Jima Farm and Resort also has a restaurant serving organic and locally sourced food, and a convenience store where you can purchase fresh produce and other produce. Kimzima Farm also has a restaurant serving organic and local cuisine. There is also a small shop where visitors can purchase fresh produce and other produce. 


The Future of Tourism

Unfortunately, the lack of existing attractions, facilities, and amenities has prevented the city from developing as a major tourist destination. However,  Madrid has several scenic spots and potential tourist attractions such as Bayogo Caves, Panlangagan Caves, Panlangagan Plateau, NIA Dam, Karacan Bridge, Bayogo Irrigation Dam, Ancestral House, Karacan River, Daan. Good to know. Union Fish Cage and Pen and Live Ogu Beach Resort. 

To boost Madrid's tourism industry, local governments, and tourism industry stakeholders must work together to develop and promote these attractions. This can be achieved by providing facilities and utilities, improving accessibility, and developing tourism-related activities and services. 

With proper planning and execution, Madrid will become a thriving tourist destination in Surigao del Sur, contributing to the local economy and providing opportunities for community growth and development.


HOW TO GET THERE

By Plane: 

  • The closest airport to Madrid is  Bancasi Airport in Butuan City. 
  • From the airport, you can travel to Madrid by van or bus. It takes about 3-4 hours.  

 By Land: 

  • You can also take a bus or van from Davao City or Butuan City to Tandag City,  about 45 minutes from Madrid. 
  • From Tandag city you can get to Madrid by jeepney or bus. It takes about 1-2 hours.  
By Boat: 

  • You can also take a ferry from Cebu City to Surigao City. 
  • From Surigao City, you can reach Madrid by bus or van. It takes about 3-4 hours. 

Once in Madrid, you can explore the city by tricycle or motorbike taxi.


A Photographic Journey through Lingig Town, Surigao

Lingig is a municipality positioned on the jap coast of the Surigao del Sur province, located on the border of Davao Oriental. In the beginning, Lingig inhabited through indigenous communities, along with the Manobo and Mandaya peoples. The region become later colonized by the Spanish withinside the overdue 1800s, after which the Americans withinside the early 1900s. During the Japanese profession of the Philippines in World War II, the city become used as a base by Japanese forces.

5 Reasons Why Lianga Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List

municipality Llanga in the province of Surigao del Sur is located in the eastern part of Mindanao Island, facing the Philippine Sea. The city has a total area of ​​440.5 square kilometers and a population of about 43,000 (as of the 2020 census). 

Llanga is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse population. The town is home to several indigenous peoples, including the Mandaya, Manobo, and Mamanwa peoples who have lived in the area for centuries and preserved their traditional way of life.  Lianga is named after the Lianga, a native tree that grows abundantly in the region. The city was incorporated in 1939 and became a municipality on June 18, 1966. 

Lianga's main economic activities are agriculture, fishing, and mining. It is known for its high-quality rice production and abundant marine resources such as different types of fish, shellfish, and seaweed. Lianga's mining industry is also growing, with several mining companies operating in the area, extracting minerals such as gold, copper, and nickel.  

Lianga is also known for its efforts to promote environmental protection and sustainable development. The city has several protected areas, including Mount Hilong Hilong Nature Park, which is home to a variety of endemic and endangered flora and fauna. The city also implements various ecotourism programs such as hiking and camping tours to promote sustainable tourism and economic development. 


Llanga is a beautiful and diverse town in Surigao del Sur, offering both local and foreign visitors a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure.

Here are some things to do in Ryanga: 

 

 Explore  Mount Hilong Hilong Nature Park

Located in Llanga, Mount Hilong Hilong Nature Park is a reserve that offers a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a wide variety of endemic and endangered flora and fauna, making it an ideal place for nature lovers. 

 

Visit  Tinuy-an Falls

His Tinuy-an Falls in the nearby town of Bislig is a must-see for anyone visiting Lianga. The waterfall is 95 meters wide and is sometimes called the "Niagara Falls of the Philippines". Visitors can swim in the crystal clear water or ride a bamboo raft under the waterfall. 


Discover the cultural heritage of indigenous communities

Lianga is home to several indigenous groups, such as the Mandaya, Manobo, and Mamanwa, who have preserved their traditional way of life. Visitors can learn about the culture, customs, and traditions by visiting villages and participating in cultural activities such as traditional dances, handicrafts, and tastings. 


Visit  Lianga Bay and Mangrove Forest 

Liangga Bay is a beautiful natural attraction that offers the opportunity to explore the mangrove forests that are home to a wide variety of marine life. Visitors can take a boat tour or paddleboard through the mangroves and enjoy the beautiful views of the bay. 


 Participation in ecotourism activities

Lianga is committed to environmental protection and sustainable tourism. Visitors can participate in various ecotourism activities such as tree planting, beach cleaning, and marine conservation programs to protect the city's natural beauty and biodiversity. 


Visit Lyanga Eco Park

Lyanga Eco Park is a community-run project that offers visitors a variety of activities such as trekking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park also has zip lines and skybikes, allowing visitors to explore the park uniquely. 

All in all, Llanga offers a wide range of activities and attractions perfect for visitors looking for a unique and authentic experience in Surigao del Sur.



Surf's Up! Catching the Best Waves in Lanuza, Surigao del Sur

Lanusa is a municipality in the province of Surigao del Sur in the northeastern part of Mindanao overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The city has a total area of ​​142.8 square kilometers and a population of about 21,000 (as of the 2020 census). 

The city of Lanuza is known for its beautiful beaches, surf spots, and marine reserves. The city is also home to various indigenous peoples, including the Mamanwa,  known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. 


Lanuza is named after  Dona Maria Ana Lanuza y Cortez, the mother of the Spanish governor Don Sebastian Furtado de Corcuera. The city was incorporated in 1917 and became a municipality on August 15, 1948. 

The Beauty of Sibadan Fish Cage Ecotourism: A Visual Journey | Hinatuan

Sibadan Fish Cage is a popular tourist destination  in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines. With floating fish cages acting as fish farms, visitors can see how the locals raise different fish species such as tilapia, milkfish, and carp. 

 Sibadan Fish Cage is located in  Hinatuan Bay and can be reached by boat. A boat ride offers beautiful views of the bay and surrounding islands. Once at the fish cages, visitors can watch the locals feed and harvest the fish, and even participate in the feeding. 

The fish farm also has an adjoining restaurant that serves fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish, kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices), and sinigang (sour soup). The restaurant has beautiful bay views, allowing visitors to enjoy their meals while admiring the beautiful surroundings. 

A visit to Sibadan Fish Cages is a unique experience that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of Hinatuan Bay while witnessing the region's traditional fish farming methods. The Fish Cage is open daily from 8am to 5pm and your admission fee includes the boat ride to and from the Fish Cage.


HOW TO GET THERE

Here's how to get to Hinatuan from Manila, Cebu, and Davao and how to get to Sibadan Fish Cages. 

 From Manila: 

  •  By Air – Several airlines operate daily flights from Manila to Butuan City or Davao City. From there you can take a van or bus to Hinatuan. Upon arrival in Hinatuan, rent a boat and head to  Sibadan Fish Cages. 
  • By Land - From Manila, take a bus to Surigao City or Butuan City,  then transfer to a van or bus to Hinatuan. Upon arrival in Hinatuan, rent a boat and head to  Sibadan Fish Cages. 

From Cebu: 

  • By Air - Several airlines fly daily from Cebu City to Butuan City or Davao City. From there you can take a van or bus to Hinatuan. Upon arrival in Hinatuan, rent a boat and head to  Sibadan Fish Cages. 
  • Land and Sea - You can take a ferry from Cebu City to Surigao City and from there take a van or bus to Hinatuan. Upon arrival in Hinatuan, rent a boat and head to  Sibadan Fish Cages. 


From Davao: 

  • By Air – Several airlines operate daily flights from Davao City to Butuan City. From there you can take a van or bus to Hinatuan. Upon arrival in Hinatuan, rent a boat and head to  Sibadan Fish Cages.
  • By Land - Take a bus from Davao City to Butuan City or Surigao City,  then transfer to a van or bus to Hinatuan. Upon arrival in Hinatuan, rent a boat and head to  Sibadan Fish Cages. To ensure a safe and hassle-free journey to Sibadan Fish Cage, it is recommended to arrange a boat transfer with a local tour operator or Hinatuan accommodation staff.


Why Hinatuan Should Be Your Next Adventure Destination

Located on the northeastern coast of Mindanao, the city of Hinatuan in the province of Surigao del Sur is known for its natural attractions such as the Enchanted River.  The city's name comes from " Hinatuan " meaning "left behind". The name was given to the city by early settlers left behind by wandering tribes.

The area that is now Hinatuan was originally part of  Manobo territory. However, in the 17th century, the Spanish colonized the area, forcing many of the Manobo to move to the mountains.  During  American rule, Hinatuan was part of Tandag Municipality. It was in 1917 that Hinatuan was established as an independent municipality. 

  During World War II, Hinatuan was occupied by Japanese forces and used as a base for operations in Surigao. After the war, the city slowly rebuilt and is now a thriving community with a growing tourism industry.  

 Hinatuan is also known for its natural resources, especially its rich fishing grounds. Most of the city's residents are involved in fishing, but others are interested in agriculture, especially coconut, rice, and maize. 

 In recent years, Hinatuan has become a popular tourist destination due to its natural attractions. The city is also known for its vibrant festivals that showcase the culture and traditions of its residents. Hinatuan is a beautiful and charming town offering visitors a variety of activities and attractions. 

Here are Why Hinatuan Should Be Your Next Adventure Destination 

  • Enchanted River

The Enchanted River is the city's most famous attraction, and for good reason. The river is known for its crystal clear blue water and is home to a wide variety of fish. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and dive to explore the river's underwater caves and rock formations. Read More>>

  • Sibadan Fish Cage

Located near the Enchanted River,  Sibadan Fish Cage is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Visitors can rent a boat, try their hand at fishing, or just enjoy the scenery and calm waters.  Read MORE>>

  • Hinatuan Baywalk

The Hinatuan Baywalk is a scenic walk along the city's waterfront. Visitors can stroll the footpaths, watch the sunrise and sunset, and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. 

  • Na Phang Tao Marine Reserve

The Na Phang Tao Marine Reserve is a protected area with a wide variety of marine life, including colorful corals and schools of fish. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive and explore the sanctuary's underwater wonders.  White sand beaches - Hinatuan has several white sand beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. Some of the most popular beaches include Talisay Beach, Beray-Beray Beach, and Tagbina Beach. 

  • Festivals

Hinatuan hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the City Festival honoring Saint Archangel Michael, the Kasadian Festival, and the Hinatuan River Festival. These festivals feature colorful parades, street dancing, and cultural performances that showcase the city's traditions and heritage.  

  • Caves

Hinatuan has several caves worth exploring such as Pangasinan Cave, Kalihatag Cave, and Tagvaobo Cave. Visitors can go caving to see stunning rock formations and underground rivers. 

 Overall, Hinatuan offers a variety of attractions and activities that will appeal to nature lovers, adventure seekers, cultural vultures, and more.