The Department of Tourism (DOT) today confirmed it has activated its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee (DRRMCom) to closely monitor the situation and coordinate rapid assessments following a magnitude 6.0 earthquake that struck off the coast of General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, at 7:03 AM this morning.
Initial reports received by the DOT indicate that no injuries or stranded tourists have been reported as of this time. The department’s immediate priority is the safety and welfare of all visitors and tourism stakeholders in the affected Caraga region.
The DOT is actively coordinating with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), local government units (LGUs), and the DOT Regional Office in Caraga to gather comprehensive information and ensure timely assistance.
As a precautionary measure, tourism activities in the General Luna and Del Carmen areas have been temporarily suspended pending thorough safety evaluations. Affected activities include:
- Surfing at the famous Cloud 9.
- Island-hopping tours covering Guyam, Daku, and Naked Islands.
- Water-based activities in Sugba Lagoon.
Transportation infrastructure remains fully operational. Sayak Airport in Del Carmen and Dapa Sea Port have reported no flight cancellations or diversions.
Initial assessments are underway to determine the extent of the impact on tourism sites, establishments, and infrastructure. Simultaneously, the DOT is coordinating with LGUs to assess affected tourism workers, including boatmen, surf instructors, tour operators, and accommodation staff, to understand any necessary assistance required.
The DOT strongly advises all tourists currently in the area to remain vigilant and alert for aftershocks, strictly follow the instructions of local authorities, and avoid entering restricted or damaged areas.
Water-based tourism activities will only resume after the relevant LGUs and concerned agencies issue official safety and structural clearance.
The DOT remains committed to ensuring timely information dissemination and the continued well-being of visitors and tourism stakeholders.
For tourist information and assistance, please reach the DOT Tourist Assistance Call Center (TACC) through the following channels:
- Hotline: 151-TOUR (151-8687)
- Mobile: 0954-253-3215
- Email: touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph
- Facebook: Department of Tourism – Philippines page
- Web: Click2Call and Live Webchat services on the DOT corporate website
