Siargao: The Surfing Paradise of the Philippines

• HelloKumusta
  [koo-moo-stah]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pah-ah-lahm]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoHindi
  [hin-dee]
• Please/You're welcomeManghinaon ka
  [mang-hee-nown kah]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sah-lah-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPasaylo-a ako
  [pah-sahy-loh-ah ah-koh]
• How are you?Kumusta ka?
  [koo-moo-stah kah]
• Fine. And you?Maayo. Ikaw?
  [mah-yoh. ee-kahw]
• Do you speak English?Kasabot ka sa Ingles?
  [kah-sah-boht kah sah een-ge-les]
• I don't understandDili ko kasabot
  [dee-lee koh kah-sah-boht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makakita sa menu, palihug
  [goo-stoh koh mah-kah-kee-tah sah meh-noo, pah-lee-hoog]
• I don't eat meatDili ko mankaon og karne
  [dee-lee koh mahn-kah-on ohg kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Tagay!
  [tah-gahy]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko mobayad, palihug
  [goo-stoh koh moh-bah-yahd, pah-lee-hoog]

• Help!Tabang!
  [tah-bahng]
• Go away!Lakaw!
  [lah-kahw]
• Call the Police!Tawaga sa pulis!
  [tah-wah-gah sah poo-lees]
• Call a doctor!Tawaga sa doktor!
  [tah-wah-gah sah dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostNawala ko
  [nah-wah-lah koh]
• I'm illSakit ko
  [sah-keet koh]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko molit-ag...
  [goo-stoh koh moh-lee-tahg]
• I'm just lookingNagtan-aw lang ko
  [nahg-tahn-ahw lahng koh]
• How much is it?Tagpila ni?
  [tahg-pee-lah nee]
• That's too expensiveMahal kaayo
  [mah-hahl kah-ah-yoh]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede pa-murahon ang presyo?
  [pweh-deh pah-moo-rah-hohn ahng preh-syoh]

• What time is it?Unsa oras karon?
  [oon-sah oh-rahs kah-rohn]
• It's one o'clockAla una
  [ah-lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Sulod sa (napulo)
  [soo-lohd sah (nah-poo-loh)]
• MorningBuntag
  [boon-tahg]
• AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pohn]
• EveningGabii
  [gah-bee]
• YesterdayKagahapon
  [kah-gah-hah-pohn]
• TodayKaron
  [kah-rohn]
• TomorrowUgma
  [oog-mah]
• 1Usa
  [oo-sah]
• 2Duha
  [doo-hah]
• 3Tulo
  [too-loh]
• 4Upat
  [oo-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Unom
  [oo-nohm]
• 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
• 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Napulo
  [nah-poo-loh]

• Where's a/the...?Asa ang...
  [ah-sah ahng]
• What's the address?Unsa ang address?
  [oon-sah ahng ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ko pakita (sa mapa)?
  [pweh-deh moh koh pah-kee-tah sah mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kanus-a ang sunod (bus)?
  [kah-noo-sah ahng soo-nohd (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Usa ka ticket (paingon sa ....)
  [oo-sah kah tee-keh (pah-eeng-ohn sah)]

Before the arrival of the Spanish in the Philippines, Siargao was inhabited by indigenous tribes who thrived on fishing, farming, and trading with neighboring islands. These early inhabitants developed a rich culture and social structure, with unique traditions and customs that were passed down through generations.

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the Philippines, including Siargao. The island was gradually integrated into the Spanish colonial empire, with missionaries converting the local population to Christianity. Spanish influence is still evident today in the island's architecture, religious practices, and place names.

During World War II, Siargao was occupied by Japanese forces. The island saw significant military activity, including air raids and battles between Japanese and Allied forces. The war had a profound impact on the local population, leading to loss of life and disruption of daily life.

In the late 20th century, Siargao gained international recognition as a premier surfing destination. The discovery of the now-famous Cloud 9 wave attracted surfers from around the world, leading to a surge in tourism and development. This period marked a significant transformation in the island's economy and lifestyle.

In recent years, Siargao has experienced rapid development, with new resorts, restaurants, and infrastructure projects. However, there has also been a growing awareness of the need to preserve the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect Siargao's unique ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism.

Siargao can be reached via Sayak Airport (IAO), located in Del Carmen. Daily flights connect from Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) and Cebu (Mactan-Cebu International Airport). Upon arrival, you can take a van or tricycle to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can reach Siargao by ferry from Surigao City, which is accessible by plane or bus from other major cities in the Philippines.

Getting around Siargao is typically done via motorbike rentals, which are affordable and convenient for exploring the island. Tricycles and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are also available for short trips. For those who prefer comfort, vans and private cars can be rented. Bicycles are another eco-friendly option, especially for short distances.

The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While some higher-end hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, many local establishments prefer cash. ATMs are available in General Luna and Dapa, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas.

Siargao is generally safe for tourists. However, standard precautions are recommended. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when walking alone at night. While crime rates targeting tourists are low, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities in General Luna and Dapa, including pharmacies for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local police stations are also available for assistance.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing, but avoid overly revealing attire, especially in more conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious sites. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and polite to drivers and other passengers. Don't haggle aggressively. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile or a nod. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Siargao like a local, visit the local markets in General Luna for fresh produce and seafood. Engage with the locals, who are friendly and often willing to share their knowledge about the island. Don't miss out on local activities such as surfing at Cloud 9, island hopping, and exploring the mangroves in Del Carmen. Try local delicacies like 'pan de surf' and 'kinilaw'.