Siargao, once an easily accessible surf haven in the Philippines, is now facing a new kind of challenge – not from powerful waves or tropical storms, but from surprisingly high airfare. If you've been dreaming of its famous Cloud 9 breaks or stunning lagoons, you might be shocked by recent flight prices.
Just a few years ago, catching a round-trip flight from Manila to Siargao could cost as little as ₱3,000 during special deals. Imagine grabbing a bargain like that for a tropical getaway! But today, travelers are routinely seeing fares jump to between ₱15,000 and ₱18,000. To put it simply, for some, flying to international hotspots like Bali or even Tokyo can now be cheaper than a domestic trip to our very own Siargao. This isn't just about the usual inflation or fuel costs; it points to a much bigger issue: a near-monopoly in the skies above the island.
So, what happened? It wasn't that long ago that multiple airlines flew the Manila-Siargao route. Both budget-friendly Cebu Pacific (through its subsidiary Cebgo) and Philippine Airlines (PAL) offered direct flights. They used smaller turboprop planes, which are perfectly suited for Siargao's shorter runway. This competition meant more choices for you and more reasonable prices.
However, almost overnight, the scene changed. Cebu Pacific's direct flights from Manila to Siargao were moved, leaving Philippine Airlines as the only direct option from the capital. With just one airline serving this direct route, prices naturally soared. Many similar domestic flights across the Philippines remain much more affordable, highlighting just how dramatic this price jump to Siargao has been.
The impact has been felt deeply by everyone. For Siargaonons who live or work in Manila, going home to visit family has become a luxury many can no longer afford. We've heard people say it now costs more to fly to Siargao than to travel abroad, comparing a ₱20,000 round-trip fare to trips to the Maldives or Japan. Tourists, especially those traveling on a budget, are rethinking their plans, leading to a noticeable drop in visitors. Resorts, homestays, and small cafes are all feeling the pinch, as fewer people arrive to enjoy the island. For those who can't afford the sky-high tickets, the alternative is a grueling 34-hour journey involving ferries and buses, turning a quick two-hour flight into a multi-day adventure.
The story of Siargao's airfare isn't just about travel costs; it's a look into how policy changes can ripple across an entire community. The island needs our attention to ensure it remains a paradise accessible to all.
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