The Department of Tourism (DOT) has recognized surfing in Siargao as one of the tourism treasures in the Philippines.
DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano said Siargao is one of the sports tourist spots in the country that needs to be sustained and promoted in a wider spectacle.
"Sports tourism is very important in the industry," said Tamano, adding that "Siargao is not just for the region (Caraga) but a national tourism treasure that needs to be sustained and promoted."
Tamano represented Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in the launching of the 1st Governor’s Cup National Surfing Competition spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte.
Also present at the event were Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers and DOT-13 Regional Director Nelia R. Arina.
The national surfing competition kicks off on Thursday, Oct. 5.
The DOT Region 13 said the exposure of surfing sports in the tourism promotion aims to revitalize the tourism industry of Siargao after the onslaught of Typhoon Odette and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reiterating the DOT’s adherence to sustainable tourism, Tamano assured to benefit not only the province of Siargao but also places in the CARAGA region that are not yet discovered by tourist enthusiasts.