the city hall, the main city landmark
Surigao City – the shining jewel of Northeastern Mindanao continues to glitter amidst rich natural beauty and community initiatives to build an environment truly befitting that of a most livable city. With numerous come-ons for leisure and adventure dotting its 54 barangays, 21 of which are in the more than 17 islands and islets within its jurisdiction, Surigao emerges as the destination of choice in this part of the country.
Legends say that the name Surigao probably comes from the Spanish word surgir, which means swift water current. And true to its name, this resource-rich haven is swiftly moving on to become the model city for good governance, economic dynamism and environmental quality. Indeed living in Surigao is always a paradox of being endowed with urban amenities and at the same time enjoying the tranquility and laid-back lifestyle of the countryside.
Founded as a town in June 29, 1655 and later on chartered as a city in August 31, 1970, this city of 138,000 people has shown resurgence with renewed investor interest in mining – its primary economic base, coupled with a robust services sector accounting for 49% of its total employment, and followed by agriculture and fisheries. Through the years, its being the dominant urban and industrial center in the Mindanao Pacific Rim has been balanced with complementary interventions of preserving natural scenic attractions to continue serving the multitudes of tourist arriving at an average of more than 68,000 annually.
The city center also offers the perfect blend of urban comforts without the rush and pollution but the soothing greenery of a centrally located, well manicured park lined with age-old acacia trees that were probably the silent witness to the first raising of the flag of the Philippine Republic in Mindanao on December 26, 1898.
Indeed, the city has gone a long way and the distinct hospitality of the Surigaonons coupled with its persistent determination to improve its quality of life did not go unnoticed and has started to bear fruitful results. In the 2005 & 2007 Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking Project of the Asian Institute of Management, the city was chosen as among the most competitive small cities. It was also awarded as the Most Business Friendly City in Mindanao by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. These recent accolades of course is on top what it has earned already as a consistent National Finalist in the Search for Cleanest and Greenest Cities, the Child-Friendly Cities Award, and the distinction of being considered as one of Asia’s Most Livable Cities.
Discover and experience the City of Surigao!
