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Surigao del Norte - Surfing Capital of the Philippines
The scenic province of Surigao
del Norte is known as the surfing capital of the country because
of its beautiful and powerful waves, which has attracted both
local and foreign surfers. Its pristine beaches on the other
hand, have mesmerized its visitors.
Demographics
1. Population – 409, 468
(as of 2007 Census)
2. Land Area – 1, 972.9 q. km
3. Capital – Surigao City
4. Language/Dialect – Surigaonon, Cebuano, Boholano, English,
and Filipino
5. Divisions
Cities (1)
Municipalities (20)
- Alegria
- Bacuag
- Burgos
- Claver
- Dapa
- Del Carmen
- General Luna
- Gigaquit
- Mainit
- Malimono
- Pilar
- Placer
- San Benito
- San Francisco (Anao-Aon)
- San Isidro
- Santa Monica (Sapao)
- Sison
- Socorro
- Tagana-an
- Tubod
Famous For ...
Surfing, Sea Kayaking,
and Water Activities
Its waves combine the best quality features of the top-rated
waves of Hawaii's fabled "pipeline" and the top-billed
waves of Indonesia. Its huge, powerful rollers have been ranked
among the top five breaks in the world, including the "Cloud
Nine" which is considered one of the world's top surfing
waves.
Mamanwa Tribe
The province is home to one of the country's ethnic tribes,
the Mamanwas. Surigao City's Bonok-bonok Festival depicts the
merrymaking of these native folks and their gratitude to their
pagan gods for a bountiful harvest and good health.
Mangrove Forest
Mangrove is the major theme in the coastal areas of the province.
The saltwater-loving trees form interminable marine forests
covering an area of 17,473 hectares along the coasts of the
mainland and the islands of Siargao and Dinagat.
Places of Interest
Cultural
Surigaonon Heritage
Mini-Museum
Location: Boulevard, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
A collection of ancient archaeological diggings like burial
coffin jars and antique Chinese kitchenwares are showcased in
the mini-museum. Some of these artifacts were unearthed in Panhatungan,
Placer.
Man-made
Mini Dam Park
Location: San Jose, Surigao del Nortex`
A cluster of seven dams of graduated elevations carved out of
cliffs with stones perfectly laid and fitted by human hands.
It is a whole mountainside transformed into a man-made structure
exquisitely landscaped with a variety of plants and trees.
Maharlika Training
Center
Location: LIpata, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
One of the best convention and training centres in the city,
offering the best accommodation and facilities. It provides
a magnificent view of the Surigao Strait and some of the islands
in the city.
Natural
General Luna Beach
Location: General Luna, Surigao del Norte
27-kilometer stretch of bewitching sugar-fine white beaches,
stunningly sapphire seas, and natural coral barriers that keep
the inlet waters placid make this area a perfect destination
for surfers and sun worshippers.
Danawan Beach
Location: Danawan Island, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
Is an island resort in Danawan Island, just across Hikdop Island
going west. Its white beach is so rich in rare seashells. Shell
aficionados often go there to collect rarities.
Panomboyom Beach
Location: Brgy. Baybay, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
It is known for its fine white beaches grossly dominated by
fine coral rocks, which has been splashed by the waves to the
shore.
Basul Island
Location: Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
It is noted for its enticing white beaches richly interpolated
by empty shells casing and fine corals.
Alingkakajaw Island
Location: Claver, Surigao del Norte
With no rock formations like its neighboring islets, it stands
out like a green and white jewel on a pristine blue sea. This
little gem is located just off mainland Mindanao.
Del Carmen Swamps
Location: Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte
A sanctuary of the large species of saltwater crocodiles. One
can take a closer look into the tall marine jungle of mangroves
and other endemic swamp creatures. A boat ride along the narrow
passageway is a thrilling experience.
Buenavista Cave
Location: Brgy. Buenavista, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
? It has three entrances which all lead to a cavern approximately
3 km. away. Unique stone formations inside the cave create an
illusionary vision of a majestic "King´s Court"
complete with other chambers.
Mapawa Cave
Location: Brgy. Mapawa, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
It has cathedral-shaped inner domes richly decorated with magnificent
stalactites having like natural chandeliers balanced by an enthralling
sight of varied sized stalagmites.
Magpupungko Rock
Formation
Location: Pilar, Surigao del Norte
Surrounded by limestone and granite sculptures facing the Pacific
Ocean, its pockmarked limestone floor reveals pools of assorted
shapes and sizes resembling basins, barrels, tubs, and ponds
during low tide.
Lake Bababu
Location: Basilia, Surigao del Norte
A mountain lake nestled in vast walls of granite. A steep descent
to the lake adds thrill to avid adventurers and offers fine
views to numerous small caves in great abandon.
Festivals
Battle of Surigao
Strait
Place: Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
Date: October 25
The greatest naval battle in Philippine history between the
allied forces and the Japanese Imperial Army was staged in Surigao
Strait during World War II. The commemoration of this event
stretches from Surigao City to Loreto where the American troops
landed on that significant day in 1944.
Siargao International
Human Body Boarding Challenge
Place: General Luna, Surigao del Norte
Date: October 7 - 20
A new water sports event in the country participated by top
international body boarders. This is a world series event organized
by the International Bodyboarders Association.
Bonok Bonok Festival
Place: Surigao del Norte Province
Date: September 10
Surigao is home to the Mamanwa ethnic tribe. Their dances are
showcased in this festival held at the feast of San Nicolas
de Tolentino The Bonok-Bonok depicts the native folks' merry-making
to show gratitude to God for bountiful harvest and good health.
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