Siargao: The municipal government of Del Carmen on Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, made public its Island Escapade tourism promotion on Monday. The tourism program will feature the municipality's top tourist destinations, including the Sugba Lagoon, Pamumuan Beach, and Kawhagan and Halian Islands.

According to Philippines News Agency, the local government unit (LGU) stated, "The Island Escapade is a community-managed tour that brings our visitors into the heart of our pristine lagoons and resilient island communities." Through this initiative, the LGU aims to allow domestic and foreign visitors to immerse themselves in the town's island life.

"As a community-managed program, residents in our tourism destinations will welcome our visitors and lead tours and other activities," said Lanie Lipio, municipal tourism officer, in an interview on Monday. She highlighted that people's organizations involved in tourism activities are active in these areas and are working with local officials to facilitate visitor access and manage tourist sites.

The famous Sugba Lagoon and Pamumuan Beach in Barangay Caub are among the destinations included in the program. Visitors can also enjoy community immersion, diving, and other beach activities on Halian and Kawhagan Islands. "The Halian, an island barangay, is the farthest from the town. Its travel time is almost an hour, depending on the sea condition," Lipio added.

The island, home to nearly 400 families, is also known as "Turtle Island," as it serves as a nesting ground for sea turtles. "Halian Island also offers the best site for diving, as it is considered a marine sanctuary. During the onslaught of super typhoon Odette in 2021, despite its flat terrain, the village recorded zero casualties," Lipio explained.

The Island Escapade program offers three-day packages that cover food, accommodation, transportation, and activities at selected sites. "Visiting tourists may proceed to the town's tourism office to inquire about the program," Lipio concluded.