Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Surigao City, Surigao del Norte is within Region XIII – (CARAGA), in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Surigao City

• As of the 2020 Census, Surigao City had a population of 171,107.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 154,137, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 11% over five years.
• Surigao is historically home to the Mamanwa and Manobo peoples. The Mamanwa are among the oldest indigenous groups in the Philippines, known for their forest-based traditions, music, and rituals. The Manobo have ancestral domains in the uplands and river systems of northeastern Mindanao.
• The major dialect spoken is Surigaonon, a Visayan language distinct from Cebuano. Cebuano and Tagalog are also widely understood. Indigenous languages such as Mamanwa are still spoken in tribal barangays. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Surigao City

• Surigao City is located in northeastern Mindanao, within the province of Surigao del Norte and Region XIII (Caraga). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.7897°N latitude and 125.4958°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 173.91 square kilometers, comprising 54 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river deltas, and rolling hills. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with rainfall distributed year-round and average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
• Surigao City serves as the provincial capital of Surigao del Norte. The City Hall is located in Barangay Washington, which also houses major government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach Surigao via land, air, and sea. The city is served by Surigao Airport, with flights to Cebu and Manila. The Port of Surigao (Eva Macapagal Base Port) and Lipata Ferry Terminal connect the city to Leyte and other parts of the Visayas. Bus terminals link Surigao to Butuan, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro.

Tourist Attractions of Surigao City

• Surigao City Boulevard: A scenic coastal promenade ideal for walking, cycling, and sunset viewing.
• Battle of Surigao Strait Memorial: A historical marker commemorating the last battleship-to-battleship naval engagement in WWII.
• Day-asan Floating Village: A unique community built on stilts over water, often called the “Little Venice of Surigao.”
• Mabua Pebble Beach: A rare shoreline covered in smooth pebbles, popular for swimming and picnics.
• Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival: Celebrated every September 9, this festival honors San Nicolas de Tolentino and showcases ethnic dances, Surigaonon culture, and civic pride.

Economy of Surigao City

• Surigao’s economy is anchored in:
  • Mining: The city is a gateway to nickel and gold mining operations in nearby municipalities.
  • Fishing and aquaculture: Coastal barangays contribute to seafood production and trade.
  • Trade and commerce: Surigao serves as a regional hub for retail, logistics, and inter-island shipping.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, beaches, and cultural festivals attract both domestic and international visitors.
• Surigao City is classified as a 3rd-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, Surigao del Norte ranked among the top 20 wealthiest provinces in the Philippines in 2023, with assets exceeding ₱16.79 billion.

Educational Institutions of Surigao City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Saint Paul University Surigao: A private Catholic university offering programs in business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts.
  • Surigao State College of Technology: A state college offering engineering, maritime studies, and teacher education.
  • Northeastern Mindanao Colleges: Offers programs in accountancy, IT, and management.
  • Surigao Education Center: Offers nursing, business, and technical programs.
  • St. Jude Thaddeus Institute of Technology: Offers engineering, criminology, and education programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in electronics, welding, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Surigao City

• Surigao City traces its origins to the pre-colonial settlement of “Banahao,” described in 1738 by Fray San Juan Francisco de San Antonio as a port town at the northern tip of Mindanao. It was part of the old Caraga district, which later became a politico-military zone under Spanish rule.
• During the Spanish era, Surigao served as a strategic naval outpost and trading center. The Royal House was the residence of the Spanish governor, and the city’s port was vital for inter-island commerce. Repeated attacks by Moro raiders led to the fortification of the area and its integration into the Spanish naval defense network.
• Surigao was officially founded on June 29, 1655. It became a chartered city on August 31, 1970 through Republic Act No. 6134. The city has since evolved into a regional capital, balancing heritage preservation with urban development.
• Today, Surigao is known as the “City of Island Adventures,” serving as a gateway to Siargao and Dinagat Islands. It continues to grow through infrastructure, education, and sustainable tourism, while honoring its rich maritime and cultural legacy.

Elected Officials of Surigao City

• As of the 2025 elections, Surigao City is led by:
  • Mayor: Pablo Yves Lequit Dumlao II
  • Vice Mayor: Alfonso S. Casurra
  • Representative – 2nd District of Surigao del Norte: Bernadette Barbers
  • City Councilors: Sebastian Ric A. Nagas, Cazel R. Azarcon, Leonilo A. Aldonza, Karl Duane A. Casurra, Joel E. Tinio, Joshua Emilio S. Geli, Baltazar C. Abian, Noel Christian G. Catre Jr., Jose Expeditus B. Bayana, Joseph Joey S. Yuipco
• For full election results and updates, visit: Surigao City Election Results.

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