BUTUAN CITY – The Police Regional Office (PRO)-13 (Caraga) reported on Wednesday that the peace and order situation on Siargao Island remains stable and secure.
The PRO-13 statement follows recent social media posts depicting localized issues that the police clarified do not represent the overall security status of the region's premier tourist destination.
“These incidents were isolated and do not reflect the situation in the island,” PRO-13 information chief Police Major Jennifer Ometer said in an interview on Wednesday.
Ometer added that these specific cases have already been addressed by the police and local government units (LGUs) on the island.
To maintain stability amid the influx of local and foreign visitors, the region has deployed additional personnel who recently trained as Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection.
The PRO-13 also turned over three personnel carrier vehicles to the Surigao del Norte police on Monday to enhance police mobility and response capabilities.
“PRO-13 firmly emphasizes that all tourists, regardless of nationality, race, or background, are entitled to equal treatment, respect, and the opportunity to safely enjoy what Siargao Island has to offer,” PRO-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Marcial Mariano Magistrado IV said.
He said inclusivity and fairness remain central to maintaining a welcoming environment for all visitors.
The PRO-13 is working with the Department of Tourism to implement the Tourist Code of Conduct, an advocacy program piloted in Siargao that promotes respectful and culturally sensitive tourism.
“This initiative underscores the shared responsibility of both tourists and locals in preserving the island’s integrity, traditions, and peaceful environment,” Magistrado added.
He also urged the public to remain discerning of unverified information and continue supporting initiatives that foster unity and order. (PNA)