Surigao Hub

Emergency Hotlines Guide in Surigao del Norte (Island & Mainland Municipalities)

2026-01-12T12:36:00.003+08:00

This page serves as a compiled emergency hotlines guide for Surigao del Norte, covering island and mainland municipalities, Surigao City, and selected provincial agencies.

The information below is based on publicly shared contact details from the local government unit of Surigao del Norte thru its Provincial Tourism Office FB post and is intended for reference and emergency preparedness. Travelers and residents are advised to save these numbers and verify details when necessary.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
Contact numbers may change without prior notice. For updated details, please coordinate directly with local government units or emergency offices.

🧳 Travel light, travel smart: Budget-friendly luggage pick for your next Siargao adventure!

2025-06-17T11:49:00.003+08:00

Whether you’re chasing the famous waves of Cloud 9, hunting for hidden lagoons, or just planning to chill at the laid-back cafes in General Luna, Siargao is always a good idea.

But before you book that flight, let’s talk about something every traveler needs: a reliable, rainproof, and budget-friendly luggage bag — because let’s face it, the last thing you want is a busted zipper or soaked clothes right when you land.

We found a great budget luggage option under ₱966 on Shopee, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite for Siargao-bound adventurers.

Why we love it:
✅ Compact enough for hand-carry (avoid those check-in fees!)
✅ Made with water-resistant fabric – perfect for sudden Siargao rainshowers
✅ ⚠️ Theft Protection 🔕 Mute Sound ➕ Max Large Capacity
✅ Durable zippers and straps, tested by weekend warriors and long-stay nomads alike

Whether you're a first-timer or a frequent visitor, smart packing can make or break your Siargao trip.

✈️ Planning your escape soon?
Check out this affordable travel bag that gets the job done — stylishly and securely.

👉 https://s.shopee.ph/9zm2mwDmVG

🛍️ Support this blog when you shop via our link. It helps us keep sharing Siargao stories!

Surigao City gears up for State of the City Address, oath-taking ceremony

2025-06-16T16:44:00.002+08:00

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte— City Vice Mayor Alfonso “Pons” Casurra officially opened Monday’s flag ceremony at the City Hall by urging department heads to submit their annual reports promptly. He emphasized that achievements from last year and the first half of this year must be fully documented for the upcoming State of the City Address scheduled on July 18, following the June 27 oath-taking ceremony.

“As you all know, our mayor will deliver a one‑hour presentation, highlighting the true status of our city,” Casurra said, urging departments to consolidate their accomplishments into a comprehensive video presentation.

Casurra also stressed the importance of finalizing preparations for the oath-taking ceremony, set for a Friday morning at 7AM of June 27. The event will include a formal transition from the outgoing to the incoming officials, concluding around noon of June 30.

Leading both projects himself, Casurra encouraged civic engagement, saying, “I look forward to seeing how people will accept us again for the coming three years.” He affirmed their dedication to transparent, accountable governance and expressed hope for a fruitful term (2025–2028).

In closing, Vice Mayor Casurra extended Father’s Day greetings to employees and reminded parents that the first day of classes in public elementary and high schools falls today—a reminder of the shared responsibility in ensuring children’s education.###

Tourism slowdown in Siargao raises concerns among local stakeholders

2025-06-16T16:02:00.004+08:00

(Photo Credit: Janos Leo Gorgolon Andanar FB page)

By Surigao Today News Desk

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte — As the volume of tourists visiting Siargao Island continues to dwindle in the past few weeks, concerns are rising among investors, business owners, and tourism-dependent locals who fear a return to pre-boom trends, especially during the school season.

In a Facebook post that quickly drew attention, Janos Leo Gorgolon Andanar, a proud Siargaonon, reflected on the current situation and expressed the shared anxiety of many stakeholders.

“Amo ini na picture an tag ka hadlukan nan mga naka invest na sa Siargao nan millions pag palit nan lupa sanan millions sa pag tukod nan negosyo. Amo sab ini an tag ka hadlukan nan pipila ka mga lokals na full time job na an turismo,” Andanar wrote, referring to the recent photos showing nearly empty tourist areas on the island.

According to Andanar, the slowdown isn't entirely new or surprising. Historically, Siargao experiences a dip in tourist arrivals starting June when classes resume. In previous years, the island was mostly frequented by foreign visitors during this off-season.

“Normal ini sauna and dawat man ini nan mga lokal sanan mga negosyante,” he said, noting that this trend was disrupted only in recent years, particularly after the tourism boom following the pandemic and Typhoon Odette.

Andanar pointed out that many who invested heavily in land and tourism-related businesses failed to account for the long-term trends in the island’s tourism patterns. He emphasized that for more than five years prior, consistent visitors were mainly surfers—not casual vacationers—and this niche group helped maintain a stable, if smaller, tourism economy.

He warned that those whose businesses were built on the post-Odette hype could be caught off guard if the current "normalization" continues.

“Makuratan gajud sila kun mo normalize an hype and mo balik anay sa pre-Odette trend,” he said, referring to the tendency of tourist arrivals peaking only during major events or long weekends.

Adding to the island’s tourism woes are rising safety and infrastructure concerns. Andanar cited increasing reports of theft in tourist-heavy areas, high airfare costs, expensive food prices comparable to Manila, and frequent power outages that affect digital workers like virtual assistants.

“Amo jaun mag duha-duha na an iban na mo dajun sa ila travels pa Siargao,” he noted, as these issues contribute to travelers reconsidering their plans.

Despite the decline in tourist numbers, Andanar acknowledged there are upsides to the slowdown. Reduced garbage output, ongoing efforts by some LGUs to develop proper sanitary landfills (not just dumpsites), and the push to implement no-single-use-plastic ordinances are all steps toward sustainable tourism.

However, he stressed the need for a more inclusive distribution of tourism benefits across all barangays and municipalities on the island.

“Dapat an mag binipisyo nan ini kay an mga LOKAL na jaun sa mga ka-barangayan sanan gagmay na isla,” he said, noting that despite the island-wide branding, tourism profits are concentrated in a few areas.

In his concluding note, Andanar observed that even though flights continue, the few passengers on board are mostly locals.

“Arang ra an pasahero pero lokal ra tanan kay makita mo ra sa mga wayung na taga isla ra,” he added.

As Siargao grapples with this shift, the challenge now lies in managing expectations, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring that the true beneficiaries of tourism are the island’s local communities. ###

Going island hopping in Siargao or just worried about sudden rain?

Check out this affordable Ocean Pack Waterproof Bag — perfect for keeping your phone, wallet, and powerbank safe!

Heavy-duty

Starts at P89.00

Over 1,000 good reviews!

Shop now https://s.shopee.ph/2fzQiqcj35

#SurigaoToday #travelessentials

New Surigao-Sorsogon Ferry Route Offers Direct Mindanao-Luzon Link, Bypassing San Juanico Bridge Bottleneck

2025-06-10T12:15:00.007+08:00

(Photo credit: Leyte Transportation News and Updates)

SURIGAO CITY – A game-changing inter-island route is on the horizon.

A new daily Roll-on, Roll-off (RORO) ferry service directly connecting Surigao City in Mindanao to Bulan, Sorsogon in Luzon is set to launch soon—providing a faster and more efficient alternative for cargo movers and travelers affected by load restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge.

Cebu-based Seen Sam Shipping Inc. will operate the route using two high-capacity Landing Craft Transport (LCT) vessels, LCT 1018 and LCT 1070. These will run daily trips between Lipata Ferry Terminal in Surigao and Bulan Port in Sorsogon, aiming to ease the transport burden caused by the ongoing structural limitations on the San Juanico Bridge that links Samar and Leyte.

The Port Management Office (PMO) of Surigao has already granted a berth allocation certificate to Seen Sam Shipping—one of the key requirements for clearance from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), which is expected to give the green light for full operations soon.

According to the company’s initial schedule, LCT 1018 will depart from Bulan at 5:00 AM, while LCT 1070 will leave Lipata at the same time, with an estimated travel duration of 21 hours.

The launch of this new route comes at a crucial time, as logistics companies continue to struggle with route disruptions and delays due to the San Juanico Bridge's imposed weight limits. By offering a direct Mindanao-to-Luzon passage, the Surigao-Sorsogon route is expected to streamline cargo movement, minimize delays, and boost inter-island connectivity.

Freight operators and businesses stand to benefit from improved efficiency and flexibility, with the new service providing a reliable and timely transport option across the country’s major island groups.

Stay tuned to Surigao Today for updates on the official launch and complete schedule of this new ferry service. (with a report from PPA PMO-Surigao)

Thirst for solutions: Dinagat tackles water shortage head-on

2025-06-03T08:52:00.002+08:00

SAN JOSE, DINAGAT ISLANDS – Amid ongoing dry season challenges, the members of the Provincial Water Security Council Core Group gathered recently to address the worsening water shortage affecting the entire province.

Held at the People’s Hall in the IJN Yamashiro Building in San Jose town, the meeting tackled urgent issues tied to limited water access and its impact on agriculture, tourism, public health, and emergency response.

Governor Nilo P. Demerey, Jr., stressed the importance of securing alternative water sources for both short-term emergencies—such as fire outbreaks and calamities—and long-term development plans for the province.

Among the strategies discussed were the implementation of a Water Rationing and Truck Mobilization Plan, support mechanisms for tourism facilities vulnerable to water scarcity, and contingency systems for fire response during drought conditions.

Governor Demerey also announced a partnership between the Provincial Government and San Miguel Corporation, which will enable the towns of Cagdianao, Dinagat, and San Jose to tap into the Del Pilar Water Reservoir as a new water source. (with a report from Lorense Mae Nidea, PIO-PDI | Photos by Markkenneth Caracol)

Mpox Alert: Caraga still safe, says DOH

2025-05-28T11:21:00.006+08:00

BUTUAN CITY - Dr. Amethyst Kathleen Alicante, Cluster Head of RESU/HEMS at the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga, clarified that the Caraga Region remains free from monkeypox or Mpox cases.

According to Dr. Alicante, Mpox is a zoonotic disease—originating from animals—and is transmitted through direct contact, such as sexual activity, hugging, kissing, or using items contaminated with the virus.

While cases have already been recorded in various parts of the Philippines, including some nearby provinces in Mindanao, only one suspected case has been reported in Caraga. However, laboratory results confirmed that the case tested negative for the virus.

Dr. Alicante further emphasized that Mpox is a serious disease, with reported fatalities in some areas.

Common symptoms include skin rashes or lesions, fever, headaches, body aches, and fatigue.

San Jose (Dinagat) Water District announces new monthly water meter replacement fees effective July 1

2025-05-28T10:43:00.008+08:00

San Jose, Dinagat Islands — Starting July 1, 2025, consumers under the San Jose (Dinagat Island) Water District (SJDIWD) will see a revised monthly charge for water meter replacement, in line with the newly approved Board Resolution No. 017 Series of 2025.

The resolution, titled “Policy Guidelines on the Management, Maintenance, and Replacement of Water Meters”, aims to institutionalize proper upkeep and ensure timely replacement of water meters across the district.

The increase is part of the water district's proactive efforts to improve service delivery and infrastructure sustainability. According to the official notice, the new monthly fees will vary depending on the size of the consumer’s water meter:

½” (12.7 mm) – Php 25.00

¾” (20 mm) – Php 49.00

1” (25 mm) – Php 73.00

2” (50 mm) – Php 186.00

SJDIWD emphasized that the policy is meant to safeguard efficient operations and uninterrupted water services by ensuring that all meters are functional and well-maintained.

The water district urges all account holders to take note of the change and be guided accordingly in their future billing cycles.

Mayor Paul Dumlao represents Surigao City in Africa

2025-05-28T08:15:00.005+08:00

Mayor Paul Dumlao proudly represents Surigao City at the UN-Habitat Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya — bringing with him the spirit of Batang Surigaonon leadership and global cooperation. 🇵🇭🌍 (Photo: Paul Dumlao FB)

SURIGAO CITY - Mayor Paul Dumlao is currently in Nairobi, Kenya, attending the UN-Habitat Assembly, marking his visit to Africa — his fifth continent to date.

In a social media post, Mayor Dumlao expressed pride and gratitude as he represents Surigao City on the global stage. He will be sharing the city’s efforts on multilevel governance and its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its Voluntary Local Review (VLR).

“Mapasalamaton karajaw ako sa oportunidad na ma-share ang kalamboan nan Surigao City sa iban nasud. Excited sab ko maka-learn sa iban na mga nasud,” the mayor shared in his post.

His participation is at no cost to the government, underscoring his administration's commitment to responsible leadership and global collaboration.

Surigao City offers free palay hauling assistance for farmers

2025-04-02T11:05:00.006+08:00

Surigao City – The Local Government of Surigao City, through the City Agriculture Office, is extending its full support to local farmers with the launch of the Operation Palay Hauling Assistance Program, according to a post from Surigao City PIO.

This initiative provides free transportation services to ensure that harvested palay is smoothly delivered to drying facilities or the market. With the ongoing harvest season, the local government aims to ease the burden on farmers by offering a free hauling truck service, complete with a driver, so they no longer have to worry about additional expenses for transport.

Additionally, the LGU has partnered with the National Food Authority (NFA) to facilitate the fair and timely purchase of palay at reasonable prices.

For further inquiries, farmers are encouraged to contact the City Agriculture Office at 09108156192.

This service is available by schedule, so interested farmers are advised to reach out and secure a slot to benefit from this program. (PIO-Surigao City)

The exciting lineup: 39th Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karajaw Festival Contingents Revealed!

2023-09-06T11:17:00.007+08:00

Are you ready to be swept off your feet by an explosion of color, rhythm, and culture? The 39th Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karajaw Festival is just around the corner, and we're thrilled to unveil the official list of participating contingents for both the Bonok-Bonok Based Category and the Bonok-Bonok Festival Category!

This annual extravaganza is a celebration like no other, bringing together communities to showcase their incredible talent, creativity, and, most importantly, their deep-rooted traditions. So, without further ado, let's take a sneak peek at the fantastic lineup for this year's festival.

Bonok-Bonok Based Category

This category pays homage to the traditional "bonok-bonok" dance, where dancers skillfully maneuver their permormance, captivating audiences with their grace and agility. The participants in this category are as follows:

Lumad Capalaynon, Capalayan National High School
Bagtik Sumayajaw Nan Canlanipa
Hingas San Juan Performing Arts
Surigao City Central Elementary School

These talented groups are sure to leave you in awe with their breathtaking stilt performances, passed down through generations.

Bonok-Bonok Festival of Festivals Category

In this category, participants unleash their creativity and artistic flair, crafting vibrant and imaginative floats and costumes that represent the spirit of the Bonok-Bonok Festival. The following contingents will grace this year's festival:

Surigao City National High School - Special Program in the Arts
Lumad Habonganon, Municipality of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte
Agusan del Sur Artists Guild (ADSAG)
Barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City
Municipality of Nasipit, Province of Agusan del Norte

Prepare to be dazzled by the sheer ingenuity and artistic brilliance on display in these visually stunning entries.

The 39th Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karajaw Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. This is a time to immerse yourself in the beauty of tradition, to witness the vibrant colors and rhythms that define the soul of this festival.

Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the event date. Mark your calendars and invite your friends and family to join us for a celebration like no other. It's a festival that embodies the spirit of unity, creativity, and the enduring traditions of our people. Don't miss it!

We can't wait to see you there, celebrating with us!

Exciting career opportunity: Join Surigao del Norte State University as an instructor!

2023-08-03T12:22:00.003+08:00

Surigao del Norte State University is currently seeking interested applicants to fill the position of Instructor I with various areas of specialization, including:

1. Master's in Environmental Science

2. Master's in English Language

3. Master's in Autonomy

4. Master's in Welding and Fabrication Technology (WAFT)

5. Master's in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC)

6. Master's in Tourism Management

7. Master's in Civil Engineering

8. Master's in Electrical Engineering

9. Master's in Electronics Engineering

10. Master's in Computer Engineering

11. Master's in Physical Education

12. Master's in Marine Biology

13. Master's in Fisheries

14. Master's in Information Systems

15. Master's in Computer Science

16. Master's in Agricultural Engineering

17. Master's in Agricultural Economics

18. Master's in Chemistry

19. Master's in Physics

20. Master's in History

21. Master's in Food and Service Management

If you are interested, you can apply by accessing the application form at the following link: https://forms.gle/PDaZCwcWze1J5goD8

Join the Surigao del Norte State University team now! 🙌 See the attached photo for more information. Apply now and take the first step towards an exciting career opportunity. Please note that all applicants must adhere to the qualifications and requirements mentioned in the application form to be considered for this position.

Surigao City public market lease agreement amended

2023-08-02T09:08:00.003+08:00

Surigao City Mayor Pablo Yves L. Dumlao II and Surigao City Vice Mayor Alfonso S. Casurra traveled to Manila on July 31, 2023, to sign an amended lease agreement for the Surigao City Public Market.

The agreement, which was signed in the presence of key government officials and executives of Philippine Primark Properties Inc., marks a new era of collaboration and inclusivity for the market.

Under the amended agreement, the local government of Surigao City will assume direct responsibility for operating the public market. This will allow for broader economic opportunities within the market, as the exclusive zone that was previously designated will be eliminated.

The signing of the amended lease agreement is a testament to the dedication of Surigao City's leadership to uphold the principles of good governance and progressive policies that prioritize the welfare of the constituents. The local government is now poised to implement new measures to enhance the market's infrastructure, services, and overall accessibility, contributing to Surigao City's continued development. (Surigao City PIO)

Special recruitment event for jobs in Australia, New Zealand set in Surigao City this August

2023-08-01T08:12:00.011+08:00

Attention to all job seekers! An exciting opportunity awaits for those interested in applying for work abroad. A special recruitment activity is set to take place on August 10-11, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, targeting positions in Australia and New Zealand.

The venue for this event will be held at the Provincial Manpower and Employment Office, located at Jose Sering Road, Provincial Capitol, Surigao City.

This event could be your chance to secure a bright future in these beautiful countries. Don't let this golden opportunity slip away. Mark your calendars and be prepared to seize the moment!

Get ready to embark on a journey towards a better career. Remember, dreams come true when you take the first step. See you there!

Siargaonon women surfers dominate Pilipinas Surfing Nationals in Baler

2022-10-27T13:11:00.006+08:00

Three Siargaonon women surfers went victorious during the Pilipinas Surfing Nationals Leg 2 in Baler, Aurora recently.

Nilbie Blancada (Champion), Jolina Longos (1st Runner-up), and Shiela Mae Arjona (3rd Runner-up) were the winners of the recent Women’s Open Shortboard Competition at the Pilipinas Surfing National Leg 2.

It can be recalled that Siargaonon duo John-Mark Tokong and Nilbie Blancada have also claimed famous victories at the recently concluded 2022 Siargao International Surfing Cup in Gen. Luna.

Congratulations!

CebuPac to start daily Surigao-Manila, Surigao-Cebu flights from Nov. 1

2022-10-27T12:03:00.002+08:00

Cebu Pacific will start a daily Surigao-Manila and Surigao-Cebu flights effective Nov. 1, 2022, utilizing an ATR-78 aircraft.

Please find below the updated schedule per information from Engr. Junelito Abrazado, Manager of Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) in Surigao.

Ceb-Sug (Daily) : 9:20 AM ETD

Sug-Ceb (Daily) : 10:25 AM ETD

MNL-SUG (Daily) : 10:05 AM ETD

SUG-MNL ( Daily): 12:30 PM ETD

DILG, LGU Libjo partner for COVID-19 vaccination

2021-05-03T12:02:00.008+08:00

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands -- The local government unit (LGU) of Libjo and the Department of the Interior and Local Government have joined hands to promote the country’s vaccination program, in response to the dismal number of persons who are willing to be vaccinated.

According to Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Bryan Edulzura of Libjo in an informal face-to-face survey conducted by the DILG contact tracers among barangay officials and workers in Libjo, about 30 percent of them are willing to be inoculated.

He said that the local government of Libjo wanted to intensify efforts to educate the people about the effects and benefits of the vaccine and that there is a need to counter the fake news that are proliferating in the social media.

“The local government is forming an advocacy team to composed of Municipal Inter-Agency Task Force, Municipal Peace and Order Council members, Rural Health Unit personnel and volunteers to visit barangays and convince people to be vaccinated,” Edulzura said.

The LGU earmarked P1.6 million for the vaccine on top of the national government’s allocation. (DILG-Libjo/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

DOH Caraga records 78 new COVID-19 cases, 3 deaths

2020-09-15T15:04:00.001+08:00

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Health (DOH) in Caraga has recorded 78 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Caraga region. Three deaths were also reported.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in the region now reached 783, with 21 deaths, the DOH report said.

Based on the Regional Situation Update on COVID-19 over the weekend in the Caraga region, the region currently has 349 active cases and 413 recoveries.

The DOH said 45 of the new cases were from Butuan City, 8 from Bislig City (Surigao del Sur), 8 from Remedios T. Romualdez (Agusan del Norte), 4 from Nasipit (Agusan del Norte), 3 from Carmen (Agusan del Norte), 3 from Lianga (Surigao del Sur) 2 from Buenavista (Agusan del Norte), and 1 each from Surigao City, Tubajon (Dinagat Islands), Sibagat (Agusan del Sur), Talacogon (Agusan del Sur) and Barobo (Surigao del Sur).

The new cases by barangay in Butuan City were distributed as follows, 10 from Libertad, 4 San Vicente, Ampayon 3, Bancasi 3, Doongan 3, Limaha 2, New Society 2, Baan (Kilometer 3) 2, Bayanihan 2, Holy Redeemer 2, and one each of Barangays San Ignacio, Sikatuna, Maug, Basag, Pagatpatan, Bitan-agan, Buhangin, Lumboan, Villa Kananga, Imadejas, J.P. Rizal and Diego Silang.

With this new development, residents in this region’s premier and capital city of Butuan were urged to strictly follow all the health protocols and guidelines issued by the city government and health authorities to stop the spread of local transmission.

Rehab of Surigao City airport runway portion done ahead of schedule

2019-10-16T16:42:00.000+08:00

SURIGAO CITY, Oct 16 -- The partial rehabilitation and repair of a portion of the Surigao City Airport runway is now complete, much earlier than the committed November 2019 deadline.

With the additional restored 400 meters of the provincial airport's runway now ready for use, it is expected that the number of flights by commercial airlines in the city to and from Cebu and Manila will increase.

The airport has been limited in its operations after a magnitude 6.7 quake damaged the runway on February 10, 2017 and is only able to utilize 1 kilometer of its runway since.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, who was requested to intervene and help fast track the rehabilitation efforts for the airport welcomed the speedy completion of the project.

Sec. Andanar also thanked the Department of Transportation for closely monitoring the progress of the ongoing repairs.

"Thanks, Asec. [Giovanni Lopez]! We, Surigaonons, owe you and Secretary Art [Tugade]," he said in a text message, further requesting the DOTr chief to inaugurate the runway once it is fully restored.

According to the airport's contractors, Vicente T. Lao Construction and Pacific Concrete, their works on asphalt overlay and pavement concreting projects are already done.

The airport development project which covers 700 meters repair and rehabilitation of the runway is expected to be completed by February of next year. (PCOO/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao airport rehab fast-tracked as Sec. Andanar intervenes

2019-08-07T16:00:00.000+08:00

AIRPORT REHAB. Communications Secretary Martin M. Andanar (blue polo), along with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary Banoy Lopez and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Director-General Jim C. Sydiongco, inspects the runway and batching area of the Surigao Airport rehabilitation project on Wednesday (August 7, 2019). Andanar said the DOTr assured to make a catch-up plan to reach full operational capability of the airport by February 2020. (PCOO)

SURIGAO CITY, Aug. 7 —The repair and widening of the quake-hit Surigao Airport runway remain on track despite several conflicts faced by the contractors that halted the project for several years as Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar was asked to facilitate it with the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

“For how many months now, tuloy-tuloy po ang aming (we have constant) coordination ni (with) Sec. Art Tugade, ako bilang(me as) Surigaonon, and Secretary Art naman bilang (as) Department of Transportation Secretary,” Andanar said in a press briefing here on Wednesday as the officials inspected the Surigao Airport runway and batching site.

“Dahil po sa pakiusap, tuloy na po yung ugnayan namin ni Sec. Art Tugade (Because of the request, our coordination with Sec. Art Tugade pushed through),” he added.

On June 3, the Provincial Capitol of Surigao Del Norte adopted Resolution No. 103 Series of 2019 asking Andanar to intervene in the delayed repair of the Surigao Airport.

The Surigao City Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc. also adopted a resolution on June 15, 2019.

As Andanar sought to fast-track the project, he was given the affirmation by the DOTr to make a catch-up plan to reach full operational capability by February 2020.

“Kahit hindi nasimulan noon, hahabulin po talaga ng DOTr ang mga buwan na hindi nasimulan para po tayo makaabot sa deadline mismo(Though it did not start as scheduled, the DOTr will make up for missed months so that we can finish it right on the deadline),” Andanar said.

The widening of the Surigao Airport runway began in October 2015, but did not proceed as planned as HERBANA Builders, the previous project contractor, declared bankruptcy and left the project hanging.

In February 2017, a 6.7-magnitude earthquake hit Surigao City that damaged the runway, only being able to use 1,000 meters from the original 1,700 meters. This led to the suspension of seven weekly Philippine Airlines flights between Manila and Surigao.

While the DOTr issued a notice to proceed to new contractors Pacific Concrete and VT Lao Construction for the Surigao Airport Development Project and secured fresh funding of PHP123.5 million from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund, the construction did not start promptly.

“Sa kasamaang palad, nagkaroon tayo ng bagyo dito at may mga tulay, limang tulay po ang nasira at hindi ‘ho passable in the sense that nagbigay ang DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) para sa kaligtasan ng lahat ng mananakay at sa mga biyahero may limitasyon kung ilan lang ang kayang i-biyahe (Unfortunately, typhoon damaged five bridges and were not passable in the sense that DPWH provided for the safety of passengers and for commuters, the is a limit),” DOTr Assistant Secretary Giovanni Lopez said.

However, Andanar and Lopez agreed that the contractors should set-up a concrete plant and batching plant near the airport to avoid similar delays.

“Totoong naantala. Pero kahit ang (It was really delayed but even the) original contract duration, which is February 2020, that is non-negotiable. Yan po ang ginagawa natin, ginagawan po ng paraan ngayon. ‘Yan po ang mangyayari, (That’s what we are doing now) we will deliver on the same period of time regardless of the delay. Reasonable or unreasonable, gagawin po natin yan (we will finish it),” Lopez said.

Lopez said the runway’s partial operation of up to 1,400 meters is possible by November to resume the operations of seven weekly Manila-Surigao flights.

He said this will accommodate the high demand of flights in the Christmas season. (PCOO)

Feature: The disadvantages of early english education to preschoolers at home

2017-09-11T14:08:00.000+08:00

By Ronshel T. Laguna

(September 10, 2017) - The Philippines is a multilingual nation with more than 170 languages. They use Filipino as their national language or their “lingua franca,” while English as the medium language for instructions and their respective mother tongues.

English is also the most commonly used language among foreign language speakers throughout the world when people with different languages come together, they use English to communicate. One of the primary benefits of learning English is that it is often considered the language of global business. The international business community often uses it for communication, even among people who do not speak the same native language.

Meanwhile, Filipino as defined by the Commission on the Filipino Language (KWF) is "the native language, spoken and written, in Metro Manila, the National Capital Region, and in other urban centers of the archipelago."

Filipino is ideally a pluricentric language - a language with several centres, each providing a national variety with at least some of its own (codified) norms. Generally, pluricentric language is used across the boundaries of individual political entities, so that the language and the ethnic identity of its native speakers do not coincide (Clyne 1992, pp 1-2).

The Philippine constitution recognizes Filipino and English as the two official languages [Art. XIV. Sec. 6 and 7]. It also says that “regional languages as the auxiliary official languages in the regions xxx shall serve as auxiliary media of instruction therein.” In fact, the Philippines has around 181 languages, 17 of which are qualified for the new mother tongue or the Mother Language-Based Education and are being used in kindergarten and the first three years of primary education nationwide (Abueva, 2013).

Mother tongue or L1 is the person’s first language. A person speaks it the best and so is often as the basis for sociolinguistic identity (Bloomfield,2008).

Learning mother tongue is no easy task. The most important years of learning begins at birth. During these early years, humans are capable of absorbing more information than later on,(Ogbu,1991). The brain grows rapidly in the early years. During these years, parents are responsible for the learning of their child. Parent involvement in early literacy is directly connected to their child’s academic achievement, (Erika Burton,1974). Equipping the preschoolers with English Education basically on how to read, write and speak is what we call Early English Education. Parents need to interact with their children like supporting, explaining, endorsing and challenging them to move on from what they know about English. An important way of doing this is to involve children in real literacy tasks in which they can make a meaningful things enabling them to do with an adult what ‘tomorrow’ they will be able to do independently.

Here’s a story of Mrs. Anet, a mother that used to train her child to read books or some other types of literature. Sometimes, she reads it for her more often times and teaches her child to write English words. Letting her child sing or recite nursery rhymes, talks to her child also using this medium of instruction. Julia, her child cannot read but rather understand what her mother reads. She can write the correct spelling of some basic words in English. She can speak and make a short conversation using English language.

Because English is a first language for many countries, many other nations teach it as a requirement in schools. According to (B.Miller,2004),“It is estimated that over a billion people in the world speak English on at least a basic level.” For many people, the benefits of learning English involve the new opportunities that become available to someone who understands it.

However, for some teaching English to preschoolers may also have some disadvantages in which the language is learned, if kids are in touch with the English language since they are born, they may start speaking three to six months later; than those who are raise in a monolingual environment, children will temporally mix languages, additional effort from parents and children to encourage each other to learn the foreign language is needed (Silke Rheman, 2010).

Those disadvantages fortunately appear at the early process of learning the language. One of the most remarkable disadvantages that children have at the moment of being taught in English since they are born is that they might start speaking three to six months later. Rehman says that “You can expect your bilingual child to begin speaking about 3-6 months later than his/her monolingual peers”. Monolingual children are expected to say their first 8-10 words around the age of 18 months and their first 2 word sentences around the age of 2 years. Also she recommends that “if monolingual children don´t talk in the first 6 months, they have to go and ask a doctor.” On the other hand, if bilingual kids do not start speaking after the extra six months there must be language confusion or a medical factor that is blocking the learning process.

Another significant disadvantage of teaching English especially in preschool is that children will temporarily mix languages. Rehman states that “It is normal for bi-/multilingual children to mix up languages until about the age of 4. If children are lacking the right word in language A, they will borrow it from language B to communicate their message.” It means that they may temporally mix the languages affecting the way they interact or communicate their ideas or messages to others. ###

References:

Book:

Silke Rehman (2010) Make Your Child Multilingual!: The 10 Step Success Plan to Raising Bilingual / Multilingual Children, Booksurge Llc.

Clyne, Michael G., ed. (1992). Pluricentric Languages: Differing Norms in Different Nations. Contributions to the sociology of language 62. Berlin & New York: Mouton de Gruyter.

Newspaper/Journal:

Jose “Pepe” Abueva (2013) Seeking Unity in Diversity: Sustaining Our Multilingual and Pluralistic Culture, The Bohol Chronicle.

Gov. Sol Matugas botante na sa syudad

2017-03-10T17:56:00.000+08:00

(Photo credit: Jun Parada)

SURIGAO CITY, Marso 10 - Botante na sa syudad si Surigao del Norte gobernador Sol Matugas.

Basi sa report ni Roberto "Jun" Parada, ang usa sa mga tigpamaba sa probinsya, pormal ng gibalhin ni Gob. Sol ang iyang rehistro gikan sa Brgy. Poblacion 3 sa Gen. Luna, Surigao del Norte dinhi sa syudad sa Surigao sa iyang pagbisita sa City Comelec Office Biyernes sa hapon.

(Photo credit: Jun Parada)

Kauban sa gobernador ang iyang kapikas nga si former Congressman Francisco "Lalo" Matugas, Surigao City Mayor Ernesto "Nitoy" Matugas, mga konsehales sa syudad nga myembro sa Padajon Surigao local party ug uban pang mga supporters.

Isla sa Siargao efeature sa pelikula, Jericho Rosales mubida

2017-03-07T11:27:00.003+08:00

Paul Soriano

SURIGAO CITY, Mar. 7 - Sa iyang pagbisita dinhi sa isla sa Siargao nag-uhay pa lamang, gibutyag karon sa film director nga si Paul Soriano ang plano niyang pelikula diin ma-feature gayud ang isla sa Siargao nga pagasugdan karong Abril human sa semana santa.

Dugang pa ni Soriano, pipila ka mga tourist attractions ug tourist destinations ang ila gyud nga ipakita sa entertainment world.

(photo:interaksyon)

“The film will carry a plot which is classified as Love Story/Drama, covering a month long shooting. It will also be slated for the Manila Film Festival this coming December 2017,” sumala pa ni Soriano. (FEA)

Surigaonons gitay-og na usab ug 5.9 magnitude nga linog, usa patay

2017-03-06T10:13:00.003+08:00

Photo credit: Nards Go

SURIGAO CITY, Mar. 6 - Nag-panic na usab ang katawhan sa Surigao del Norte human mitay-og na usab ang laing kusog nga linog niadtong Dominggo, alas 8:08 sa buntag.

Base sa datus gikan sa Phivolcs-Surigao, ang 5.9 magnitude nga linog anaa kini sa 8 kilometros sa kasadpan sa San Francisco sakop sa maong probinsiya nga dunay kalawmong 7 kilometros ug Tectonic ang origin. Dugang pa sa Phivolcs usa kini ka aftershock sa Feb. 10, 2017 6.7 magnitude nga linog.

Ang maong pagtay-og nasinati usab sa mga kasikbit nga lugar ug probinsiya.

Base sa datos sa City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, usa matud pa ang namatay tungod sa cardiac arrest, ang biktima naila nga si Socorro Cenes, 65 anyos ang edad nga taga Narciso cor. Lopez Jaena Sts, ning syudad. Treinta syete (37) usab ang gikatahong naangol. Gideklarar usab ni Gob. Sol Matugas nga walay klase sa tanang level sa Surigao City ug uban pang kasikbit nga lugar karong lunes.

Sa kasamtangan padayon pang gisuta ang mga damyos nga hatud sa maong linog ug lauman usab ang mga aftershocks.

Bagyong Marce naghulga sa Surigao

2016-11-23T17:38:00.001+08:00

Photo credit: PAGASA

SURIGAO CITY (Nov. 23) - Nahimo nang bagyo ang Low Pressure Area (LPA) sa sidlakang bahin sa Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Kini mao ang gitawag karon nga bagyong Marce (Tropical Depression Marce). Mao usab kini ang rason sa kusog nga ulan sa dakbayan ug padayon nga ulanon ang pipila ka mga adlaw niini tungod sa bagyo.

Base sa 5:00 sa hapon nga weather bulletin sa Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), ang bagyong Marce anaa na kini sa 420 kilometro sa sidlakan sa Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Gadala ang maong bagyo og hangin nga 45 kilometros matag oras (kph) ug huros nga 55 kph nga gibanabana kining mopaingon sa amihanan-kasadpang bahin sa nasod sa 17 kph.

Signal number 1 giisa na karon sa Surigao del Norte apil na ang Surigao City, Surigao del Sur, Dinagat Island, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Misamis Oriental and Camiguin, Southern Leyte, Bohol, ug Siquijor.

Ugma sa hapon (Huwebes), gikatakda nga anaa na kini sa 145km habagatang-sidlakan sa Surigao City ug Biyernes anaa kini sa Isabela, Negros Oriental.