Davao City / Surigao del Norte — April 23, 2026
The Police Regional Office 13 (PRO-13) has moved to reassure the public that the peace and order situation in Siargao Island remains stable and secure, even as concerns mount over the behavior of some foreign tourists following a widely circulated opinion piece highlighting tensions on the island.
In an official statement, PRO-13 emphasized that security forces are maintaining “close monitoring” of developments on the island, amid reports of an alleged influx of foreign visitors and a string of incidents that have sparked unease among local residents and stakeholders in the tourism sector.
The statement comes in response to a recent op-ed that described Siargao as “a paradise under strain,” citing recurring complaints of misconduct involving certain foreign nationals and warning of growing frustration among locals over perceived gaps in law enforcement and accountability.
Intensified Security Measures
Authorities said proactive steps have already been taken to prevent any escalation of tensions and to ensure the continued safety of both residents and tourists.
PRO-13, in coordination with the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO), local government units, and partner agencies, has strengthened on-the-ground security operations across key tourist areas.
Central to this effort is the strict implementation of the “Strengthened Bantay Turista” program—a nationwide initiative aimed at safeguarding visitors while maintaining peace and order in major tourism destinations. The program focuses on increased police visibility, rapid response capabilities, and closer engagement with local communities.
To further boost operational capacity, three new personnel carriers were formally turned over and blessed at the PRO-13 headquarters on April 20. Officials said the additional mobility will enable faster deployment of police units across Siargao and neighboring areas.
Deployment of Tourist Police
Authorities also highlighted ongoing investments in specialized training for law enforcement personnel assigned to tourism hubs.
According to data from the Regional Education and Training Division 13, a total of 250 police officers have completed the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) Seminar from 2025 through April 2026. Of this number, 45 officers are from Surigao del Norte and are now actively deployed as Tourist Police in high-traffic areas across the province.
These officers are tasked not only with enforcing laws but also with assisting visitors, managing conflicts, and ensuring that interactions between tourists and locals remain respectful and orderly.
Promoting Responsible Tourism
Complementing law enforcement efforts is the rollout of a Tourist Code of Conduct spearheaded by the Department of Tourism. Piloted in Siargao, the initiative promotes responsible, culturally sensitive, and respectful behavior among visitors.
Authorities stressed that preserving the island’s identity and peaceful environment is a shared responsibility between tourists and the local community.
Firm Stand on Accountability
PRO-13 underscored that while Siargao remains open and welcoming to visitors from around the world, inclusivity does not come at the expense of the rule of law.
“All tourists, regardless of nationality, race, or background, are entitled to equal treatment and respect,” the statement read. “At the same time, no individual—local or foreign—will be allowed to engage in behavior that threatens public safety or violates existing laws.”
The regional police warned that any form of criminal activity, disorderly conduct, or actions that disrupt public order will be dealt with accordingly, with appropriate legal action to be enforced without bias.
Public Urged to Remain Vigilant
Amid heightened public discourse, PRO-13 also called on citizens to remain discerning and avoid spreading unverified information that could further inflame tensions.
The police reiterated their commitment to transparency, security, and fairness, assuring both residents and visitors that measures are in place to address concerns while maintaining Siargao’s reputation as one of the country’s premier travel destinations.
A Critical Moment for Siargao
The reassurance from authorities comes at a pivotal time for Siargao, as debates intensify over the balance between tourism growth and community welfare. While the island continues to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, recent discussions have brought issues of cultural respect, enforcement consistency, and local empowerment into sharper focus.
For now, PRO-13 maintains that the situation is under control—but with tensions simmering beneath the surface, the effectiveness of these measures will likely be closely watched by both residents and observers in the coming weeks.
As the statement concludes, the message is clear: Siargao remains open to the world, but respect for its people, laws, and culture is non-negotiable.