Surigaonon Heritage Center
Surigao Del Norte never fails to amaze visitors with its overflowing bounty of nature. Some of the most magnificent attractions are its landmarks that denote Surigao's existence and the role it played in our country's history. The Antiques of Barangay Panhutongan and Surigao Heritage Center are two trademarks of the province that once witnessed its great past. As we go through, we will find out why Surigao City contributes much to the Philippine’s history.
The Discovery of Antiques in Barangay Panhutongan
Rediscovered sometimes in 1985 during the construction of the school toilet of Panhutongan Primary School, the contractor accidentally excavated human skeleton, skull, and some jewelry.
In August 1990, when the people was moved by the desire to improved and beautify the school and due to financial constraints agreed to start the operation in the area near the school building, they were able to unearth 3 boat-shaped wooden coffins with human skulls and bones covered with antique plates, tea cups, small saucers, soup bowls, pots, jewelry, bolos, and smoke pipes. They also discovered 4 remains of wooden post about 1 meter in length and 11/2 feet in diameter and a well built with slabs of stones.
Some of the items were donated to the Surigao Heritage Center and the rest were believed to have been bought by unknown persons and are no longer traceable. To preserve the cultural heritage of the town, the LGU ordered to secure the area while waiting for historian, anthropologist and archeologist to examine and study the origin of the relics.
Surigaonon Heritage
The Surigao Heritage Center is located at the eastern end of the boulevard strategically facing the Surigao Strait where the famous naval battle between the American and Japanese fleet in the 20th century took place. The center, a stone’s throw away from the port of Surigao City, houses the relics of Surigao's rich history showcasing the unique Surigaonon heritage.
How to Get There
By air: From Manila, there are daily flights to Cebu. There are also daily flights direct from Manila to Surigao via PAL EXPRESS. Cebu Pacific likewise flies from Cebu to Surigao daily except on Mondays and Fridays. One can also take direct flights from Cebu to Sayak Airport in Del Carmen, Siargao Island, via Cebu Pacific every Monday and Friday. There are also daily flights from Manila and Cebu to nearby Butuan City via PAL and Cebu Pacific. Butuan City is 2.5 hours by bus ride to Surigao City.
By sea: Direct voyage from Manila to Surigao are extended by WG & A and Sulpicio Lines every Tuesday and from Surigao to Manila every Thursday. Voyages from Cebu are available daily except Monday via Cokaliong Shipping Lines and Cebu Ferries. Upon reaching Surigao City, there are fast craft transfers going to Dapa in Siargao Island. Commercial and cargo inter-island vessels travel daily to various municipalities of the island via a 2-3 hours trip from Surigao City. Motorized pumpboats and non-motorized bancas also ply the water routes.
By Land: There are regular bus trips via the “RORO” ferry boat from Manila to Mindanao using Surigao City as the gateway passing through Bicol, Samar, Leyte and Tacloban. Buses, jeepney vehicles and air-conditioned shuttle vans ply the routes to the different municipalities in Siargao Island and the mainland regularly. The most popular and convenient mode of transportation within the municipalities going to far flung areas is the “Habal-habal” or the single motorcycle ride.
Hotels in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte:
• Buntog Lodge & Cottages
• Cheri Nicole Beach Resort
• Drop Inn Beach Resort
• Jade Star Beach Resort
• Villa Ernesto Beach Resort