Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, Philippines

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

People of Tandag City

• As of the 2020 Census, Tandag City had a population of 62,669.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 56,364, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 11.2% over five years.
• Tandag is historically home to the Manobo and Mamanwa peoples. These indigenous communities have ancestral domains in the forests and river systems of Surigao del Sur, with rich traditions in oral storytelling, music, and forest stewardship.
• The major dialect spoken is Kamayo, a regional language unique to southern Surigao del Sur. Cebuano and Tagalog are also widely used. Indigenous languages such as Manobo and 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 Tandag City

• Tandag City is located on the northeastern coast of Mindanao, within the province of Surigao del Sur and Region XIII (Caraga). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.0722°N latitude and 126.1711°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 291.73 square kilometers, comprising 21 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river deltas, and forested uplands. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with rainfall distributed year-round and average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
• Tandag is the capital of Surigao del Sur. The City Hall is located in Barangay Bongtud, while the Provincial Capitol is situated in Barangay Telaje.
• Most people reach Tandag via land and sea. It is accessible by bus from Butuan City (approximately 5–6 hours) and Davao City (around 8 hours). The Tandag Airport serves limited domestic flights, while the Port of Tandag connects the city to Cebu and other parts of the Visayas.

Tourist Attractions of Tandag City

• Dagocdoc Beach: A serene coastal destination ideal for swimming, beachcombing, and sunset viewing.
• San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral: A historic church and religious center located in the heart of the city.
• Provincial Capitol Complex: A landscaped government center with civic spaces and cultural monuments.
• Linungao Island: A small island off the coast of Tandag, popular for snorkeling and day trips.
• Diwatahan Festival: Celebrated every September, this festival honors the city’s patron saint and showcases Kamayo culture through street dancing, rituals, and community parades.

Economy of Tandag City

• Tandag’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, banana, coconut, and root crops.
  • Fishing and aquaculture: Coastal barangays contribute to seafood production and trade.
  • Government services: As the provincial capital, Tandag hosts regional offices, hospitals, and educational institutions.
  • Retail and commerce: Local markets, cooperatives, and small businesses support daily economic activity.
• Tandag is classified as a 5th-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it plays a vital role in Surigao del Sur’s administrative and agricultural economy.

Educational Institutions of Tandag City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU): A state university offering programs in education, agriculture, engineering, and business.
  • Saint Theresa College of Tandag: A private Catholic institution offering liberal arts, teacher education, and health sciences.
  • Surigao del Sur State University – Tandag Campus: Offers programs in technology, fisheries, and environmental science.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public and private secondary schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported high schools and senior high programs.

History of Tandag City

• Tandag’s name is believed to have originated from a local term meaning “to mark” or “to remember,” referencing the area’s role as a waypoint for early travelers and missionaries. It was already a Spanish mission center by the early 1600s, with Jesuit priests establishing settlements along the coast.
• During the Spanish era, Tandag served as the capital of the old province of Caraga. It was fortified against Moro raids and became a hub for religious and administrative activities. The construction of the San Nicolas de Tolentino Church marked its importance as a spiritual center.
• Tandag was officially founded as a municipality in the early 20th century and became the capital of Surigao del Sur when the province was created in 1960 through Republic Act No. 2786. The city grew steadily through agriculture, education, and government services.
• Tandag was converted into a component city on June 23, 2007 through Republic Act No. 9392, ratified by a plebiscite held on June 30, 2007. Today, it is known as the “City of Character,” balancing heritage, governance, and quiet resilience.

Elected Officials of Tandag City

• As of the 2025 elections, Tandag City is led by:
  • Mayor: Alexander Pimentel
  • Vice Mayor: Alfonso Casurra
  • City Councilors: Sebastian Ric Nagas, Cazel Azarcon, Leonilo Aldonza, Karl Duane Casurra, Joel Tinio, Joshua Emilio Geli, Baltazar Abian, Noel Christian Catre Jr., Jose Expeditus Bayana, Joseph Joey Yuipco
• For full election results and updates, visit: Tandag City Election Results.

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