Siargao Island, known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” has seen a dramatic increase in tourism, growing from 28,000 visitors in 2015 to over half a million by 2024. This surge has spurred economic growth, creating jobs for locals and boosting development. However, the island continues to grapple with sustainable solid waste management, particularly in General Luna, where unsegregated trash accumulates near the shores. Recent audits reveal that while 63% of the 1,036 tons of plastic produced annually is collected, 32% remains unmanaged. Amid this challenge, Siargao offers attractions like the Del Carmen Mangrove Boardwalk, Litik-Maasin River tours, and the iconic Cloud 9 Boardwalk, supported by community-based guides and local initiatives. This production was supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).
