In 2021, Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines, was recognized as the Best Island in Asia by Conde Nast Traveler's (CNT) annual Reader's Choice Awards. As Siargao Islands gain more recognition, it is crucial to plan its development in a way that maximizes the benefits of tourism, minimizes negative impacts, and ensures the sustainability of both the environment and local livelihoods. Siargao Islands is composed of nine (9) municipalities with 48 islands and islets. It has a land area of 62,796.1 hectares (mainland Siargao Islands and Socorro) and 216,118 hectares of marine area with a total of 278,914 hectares of protected landscape and seascape.
Back in 2017, we at PALAFOX were engaged by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) to develop the Comprehensive Tourism Master Plan of Siargao Islands and the Integrated Tourism Master Plan for Santa Monica TEZ. For tourism to be sustainable, it must take care of the community. That is why it was necessary for us to conduct a series of public consultations and focus group discussions to assess the immediate needs and long-term aspirations of Siargaonons. As we undertook this project, we implemented a participatory planning process, an approach that is integral to our Strategic Planning and advisory Services.
The team held several consultations with more than 1,000 individuals and stakeholders, including local communities, business owners, stakeholder local government units, other government agencies, and the Siargao Island Protected Area Management Board, among others.
According to Siargaonons, their top aspirations were:
In consideration of the vision statements inherent in the Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) of all the municipalities of Siargao, the top aspirations of Siargaonons, as well as the results of the SWOT Analysis, the project team was able to arrive at a Tourism Framework Strategy that can be summarized as follows:
“A world-class destination that preserves the environment, celebrates Siargaonon people and values, and provides authentic visitor experiences.”
Enveloped in this framework are five major tenets:
The Comprehensive Tourism Master Plan (CTMP) covers the eight (8) Tourism Management Areas (TMAs) in Siargao. These areas are grouped together in accordance to their geographic proximity, common tourism theme, and potential tourism developments.
TMA 1: Surf Town (General Luna)
TMA 2: Island Capital (Dapa)
TMA 3: Brgy. Sayak and Esperanza of Del Carmen
TMA 4: Western Siargao (Del Carmen except Brgy. Sayak and Esperanza)
TMA 5: Gamefishing Capital (Pilar)
TMA 6: Nature and Beach Destination (Burgos and San Isidro)
TMA 7: Northern Gateway (Santa Monica and San Benito)
TMA 8: Eco-Adventure Island (Socorro)
For each TMA to deliver an authentic experience and avoid competing with each other, differentiating characteristics were sought, and certain products were introduced to position each other differently. These products are either new or already existing, and some are complementing what is already in the area.
The approach used in providing recommendations on the preservation of the environment involves biodiversity conservation/protection, disaster resilience, and providing development guidelines in line with the E-National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) and Siargao Islands Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS), among others. Different strategies were proposed to conserve flora and fauna, marine and aquatic resource, and water supply sources; to improve air quality and waste management; to protect coastal areas, mountain and limestone; and to address issues on informal settlements and noise pollution.
On the other hand, disaster resilience and climate change adaptation are hinged on seven (7) major targets, such as: food security, water sufficiency, environmental and ecological stability, human security, climate-friendly industries and services, sustainable energy, as well as knowledge and capacity development.
Siargao’s tourist projections are continuously increasing due to its growing popularity locally and internationally. To support the increasing demand of the tourist market, the vision for ecotourism of Siargao conveys a medium to long-term goal for all stakeholders and indicates the next step to moving toward sustainable growth. It uses terms and phrases that replicates the mission of the Master Plan and its Tourism Framework Concept:
“Siargao Islands will become an excellent model for sustainable tourism in harmony with protected areas in the Philippines, and shall be known as a global tourist destination that promotes and protects the biodiversity of the landscapes and seascapes of Siargao.”
In line with the management of Siargao Islands Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS) biodiversity and its primary consideration to promote and adhere to the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act and relevant government instruments, the Ecotourism Plan for Siargao Islands will benefit not only the environment but also its people and the local revenue. Environmental, social, and economic sustainability in ecotourism sites are the basis of the development that will strengthen Siargao’s rich identity as an island destination.
How to manage ecotourism areas are already mentioned in the SIPLAS Management Plan. These prescriptions promote community-based ecotourism integrated with proper waste management, building restrictions, limited allowable structures, and proper easements from mangroves and protected areas. All development guidelines necessary for sustainable ecotourism are already integrated in the Tourism Management Areas (TMAs).
The following infrastructure projects were identified as the priority projects that can be undertaken by the government to assist the communities in the islands to sustain the existing and future developments in Siargao:
• Provision of alternative renewable sources of energy
• Provision of water supply and wastewater facilities
• Provision of a solid waste management system
• Solar farm as a power generation project
• Waste collection and waste-to-energy plant as part of the Solid Waste Management Plan
These shall be in accordance with DENR Administrative Order No. 2009-09 or the Standard Design and Specifications for Infrastructure that may be installed within Protected Areas in compliance with the management description of the SIPLAS Management Plan.
The Siargao Tourism Master Plan is a testament to what can be achieved when we prioritize sustainable development, community engagement, and environmental protection. It's a blueprint for a future where tourism thrives in harmony with the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Whether you're a resident, a visitor, or simply a lover of Siargao, recognize that responsible tourism is everyone's responsibility. Respect the island's delicate ecosystems, embrace its culture, and support local businesses. Let's ensure that future generations can experience the same magic that draws us to Siargao today.
To private developers and landowners: Siargao's future depends on your choices. As you consider new projects, embrace the principles of sustainable development, be aware of the master plan, study the terrain, understand the local culture, and prioritize environmental protection.
Palafox Associates is here to help. Our Strategic Development Advisory, Urban Planning and Master Planning services can provide you with the expert guidance and insights needed to create developments that are both profitable and sustainable.
Together, we can make Philippines 2050 a reality, not just in Siargao but across the nation. It's a future where economic progress and environmental stewardship go hand in hand, where communities thrive, and where our natural heritage is protected for generations to come.
Let's build a legacy of responsible development. Contact us today to start planning for a sustainable tomorrow.
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