Manila: The Department of Tourism in the Caraga Region (DOT-13) has welcomed the move of Surigao del Norte First District Rep. Francisco Matugas to push for an investigation into the soaring cost of airfares to Siargao Island. ‘Tourism should remain affordable and inclusive, and not a privilege for only a few,’ DOT-13 Regional Director Ivonnie Dumadag said in an interview on Thursday. She noted that since Siargao Island is a top destination for both foreign and domestic tourists, the investigation at the House of Representatives (HOR) is timely and appropriate.

According to Philippines News Agency, ‘Our Tourism Secretary, Christina Garcia-Frasco’s, priority, is to sustain the growth of tourism in our island destinations,’ Dumadag said, adding that sustaining this growth includes balancing affordability, safety, and quality of travel experiences. Data provided by DOT-13 indicates that a total of 242,560 tourists visited Siargao Island from January to August 19, 2025. Of this number, 167,401 were domestic tourists, while 75,159 were foreigners.

Netizens raised concerns earlier this week over the soaring cost of round-trip airline tickets to Siargao, which can reach as high as PHP30,000. Matugas, in a Wednesday interview, said the finalization of the calendar is being done to set a date for the investigation. The solon also shared his own experience, saying he recently bought a Manila-Siargao-Manila ticket for PHP22,000.