Siargao Island to Enhance Tourist Safety with New First Aid Facility

GENERAL LUNA, SIARGAO ISLAND – The Department of Tourism in the Caraga Region (DOT-13) has announced the upcoming establishment of a tourist first aid facility in Siargao Island’s General Luna town, particularly near the popular Cloud 9 surfing spot. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance safety measures at major tourist destinations across the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, the new facility is one of six such installations planned nationwide as a result of a memorandum of agreement signed on Monday between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Health (DOH). “This strategic move aims to strengthen emergency response capabilities at key tourist locations,” Dumadag explained in an interview on Wednesday.

The first aid stations, including the one on Siargao Island, will be established through collaborations involving the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority and the DOH. Similar facilities are set to be constructed in La Union, Boracay, Panglao, Palawan, and Puerto Galera. Dumadag noted that over PHP40 million has been allocated to develop these facilities in the six designated tourist areas.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco is scheduled to kick off the groundbreaking ceremonies for these projects later this year. Dumadag highlighted the importance of such facilities on Siargao Island, acknowledging its geographic isolation despite the growing influx of tourists each year. “The first aid facility is essential for effectively managing accidents and other emergencies, ensuring that both local and international visitors can enjoy a safer travel experience,” she stated.