Siargao Finally Reopens! Here’s Everything You Need To Know Before Going There

Siargao, the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, finally reopened its doors to tourists on September 1.

However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases, and the local government unit have required tourists to follow a set of stringent requirements and protocols before they can enter the island for a much-needed break.

Who can go to Siargao?

Residents and local tourists can go there for leisure. They are required to submit a valid ID, proof of a confirmed booking at a DOT-accredited accomodation for at least 2 nights, and a negative result on swab/saliva RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours prior to their arrival in the island. Do note that those who are 17 years old and younger are exempted from taking a test. If they are planning to stay longer than five days, they are required to take another antigen test on the fifth day.

If invited by a Surigao del Norte resident, they must also show a travel certification issued by the mayor of their destination city. All requirements must be emailed to the Provincial Tourism Office (sdntourism@gmail.com) before departure.

For those living in Surigao Del Norte, they must also submit a negative swab/saliva RT-PCR test result within 48 hours prior to arrival and a valid ID/proof of residency.

What requirements do tourists need to prepare?

Here are the things tourists must prepare before going to Siargao:

*Negative swab/saliva RT-PCR test result: All domestic tourists must provide a negative RT-PCR or Saliva test within 48 hours prior to travel to Siargao. Children 17 years old and below are exempted from taking a COVID-19 test.

*At least 2 days confirmed booking of accommodation: Tourists must have a confirmed booking at a DOT-accredited accommodation for at least 2 days.

*Valid ID.

Tourists must email these requirements to sdntourism@gmail.com one day prior to their arrival in Siargao.

What are the guidelines and protocols one must follow when they’re in Siargao?

Upon arrival, tourists are expected to practice minimum health and safety protocols mandated by the government. They must also wear face masks and face shields at all times, wash hands frequently, and observe proper social distancing to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Also read: Pacifico Bigwish Beach in San Isidro Is a Surf Spot You Shouldn’t Miss