The recent acknowledgment accorded to Siargao Island is a big leap in the effort to position the Philippines as a tourism destination in Asia, an official here said Monday.

“This recognition is yet again another affirmation that Siargao is still among the must-visit islands in Southeast Asia, not just for surfing but also to experience the many other diverse offerings all around the island, the region, and the Philippines, in general,” Department of Tourism in the Caraga Region (DOT-13) Director Ivonnie Dumadag said in a statement.

Dumadag was referring to last week’s inclusion of the international travel guide publication listing Siargao Island as first in its seven top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.

It particularly cited the island’s developments in terms of an increase in the number of hotels and resorts, flights, and improved road networks.

Data from the DOT-13 indicated a significant increase in foreign tourist arrivals in Siargao Island in 2023 reaching 33,404 visits compared to 6,919 in 2022.

Tourists from the United States topped last year’s arrivals on the island with 5,538 compared to 1,499 in the previous year; Spain with 5,515 from 575; France with 3,904 from 714; the United Kingdom with 3,545 from 716; and Australia with 3,174 from 429.

Tourists from Israel, Germany, Canada, the Netherlands, and South Korea also increased their visits last year.

“The recognition is also aligned with the vision of our Tourism Secretary, Christina Garcia-Frasco, to position the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse of Asia,” Dumadag said.

In October this year, she said the 38th International Surfing Competition on the island is also expected to increase foreign and local tourist arrivals.

The DOT has allocated some PHP2 million in funding support to the international sports event, which will be held in Cloud 9 surfing spot in General Luna town. (PNA)