Welcome to Siargao City in Surigao Del Norte, and welcome to Anthro on Foot's walking tour! This is a
self-paced walking tour that features key heritage sites and cultural highlights in the area. We hope you
enjoy this tour
as much as we enjoyed curating it!
The precolonial history of Siargao in Surigao is rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the
indigenous peoples who have inhabited the region for centuries.
Surigao was home to various indigenous groups with distinct languages and cultures. The Mamanwa,
Manobo, and Surigaonon are some of the indigenous peoples who historically inhabited the region.
Maritime pre-colonial societies in the Philippines, including Surigao, primarily engaged in farming,
fishing, hunting, boat-building, seafaring, and trade. Intra-regional trade networks existed, allowing
for the exchange of goods and cultural practices with neighboring communities. Surigao is also known
for its rich mineral resources. Precolonial communities engaged in mining and metalworking activities,
producing tools and ornaments from local ores.
The arrival of the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century marked a significant turning point in the
history of Surigao and the Philippines as a whole. The influences of colonial rule, changes in
governance, and the introduction of Christianity have shaped the modern cultural landscape of the
area.
Presently, Siargao holds the title of being recognized as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines."
The primary attraction that draws enthusiasts to Siargao is undoubtedly its vibrant surfing scene.
Siargao is also distinguished by being home to Mindanao's largest mangrove forest, a site accorded
protected status by the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 1996.
