photo by IVY MARIE MANGADLAO

Move over white sand beaches—Nasipit, Agusan del Norte is redefining adventure tourism! From September 27–29, the town hosted the 1st Roscoe Democrito B. Plaza International Downhill Gravity Championship in Barangay Camagong as part of the Dunggo Festival 2025. 

With 95 riders from the Philippines, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Australia, the event showcased the thrill of downhill skateboarding—a sport that combines speed, skill, and pure adrenaline.

Winners
1st - Zak Goodwind (Australia) – ₱100,000
2nd - Eryan Abarico (Philippines) – ₱30,000
3rd - Ealoy Maquirato (Philippines) – ₱20,000
4th - Warren Arnais (Philippines) – ₱10,000

Event director Joseph Falcone said Nasipit’s unique terrain gives it the edge to become a hub for extreme sports and adventure tourism. Plans are already underway to make it an annual international event that could eventually be part of the World Downhill Skateboarding Championship tour. 

Japanese rider Hiroki Endo praised the track, calling it “fast, straight, no braking—very good!” and said he looks forward to returning.

Alongside the skateboarding action, Nasipit also hosted the Mountain Bike Downhill Mayhem, proving that Camagong is ready to be a playground for thrill-seekers. 

With warm hospitality, challenging terrains, and big dreams, Nasipit is carving its name into the adventure tourism map of Mindanao.

If you’ve ever heard travelers talking about Siargao, chances are you’ve come across the phrase “Siargao Curse.” Some say that once you visit this island paradise, you’ll find it hard to leave—or that you’ll always feel the urge to come back. But is it really a curse, or is it simply the magic of Siargao?

Falling in Love with Siargao

It’s no secret why foreigners and locals alike fall in love with Siargao. Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, the island offers some of the best surf spots in Asia. But beyond surfing, Siargao is breathtakingly beautiful—filled with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, palm-lined roads, and island vibes that instantly make you feel at home.

One thing you’ll notice right away is how foreigners seem to blend seamlessly into the island lifestyle. You’ll see them walking barefoot, shirtless, or in simple beach attire, embracing the same carefree culture as the locals. Businesses also adapt to this island way of life—many shops and restaurants encourage you to leave your footwear outside before entering. It’s a small gesture, but one that reflects the laid-back, welcoming nature of Siargao.

The Island’s Pet-Friendly Charm

Another reason Siargao captures so many hearts? It’s incredibly pet-friendly. Dogs wander freely, and most establishments are welcoming to furry friends. Since many foreigners are pet lovers, this aspect makes Siargao feel even more like home for them. Imagine enjoying a sunset session on the beach while dogs run around happily—it’s a simple joy that makes the island atmosphere even warmer.

Explore More: The Famous Tri-Island Tour

Of course, no trip to Siargao is complete without experiencing the Tri-Island Tour. This popular island-hopping adventure takes you to three breathtaking spots:

• Naked Island – a pristine sandbar where you can soak up the sun and take stunning photos.
• Daku Island – famous for its powdery white sand and delicious island-style lunch.
• Guyam Island – a small, palm-fringed paradise perfect for relaxation.

The tour usually includes a hearty lunch, boat rides, and the company of friendly local tour guides who make the trip seamless and unforgettable.

To make your island-hopping experience hassle-free, you can book with Elcrest Travel and Tours. They arrange tours around top tourist destinations in the Philippines, and Siargao is one of their specialties. For bookings and inquiries, you can reach them at 0961 877 1387 or follow their Facebook page at Elcrest Travel and Tours. They are conveniently located in Cagayan de Oro – Lane 101 Uptown, Upper Carmen.

Beyond Tourism: A Place to Live

Siargao isn’t just for short vacations; it’s also becoming a haven for digital nomads and long-term travelers. With its chill vibe and growing community of online workers, the island is perfect for those who want to work while enjoying a slower pace of life.

Even if you’re not an online worker, opportunities still abound. Resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars are always looking for people to join their teams. This makes Siargao more than just a tourist destination—it’s also a place where you can build a life if you choose to.

So, Is the Siargao Curse Real?

After my recent trip to Siargao, I can confidently say: there’s no curse. What people call the “Siargao Curse” is nothing more than the natural pull of a truly beautiful island. It’s not that Siargao traps you—it’s that it welcomes you, embraces you, and makes you long to return the moment you leave.

For me, I’ll surely be going back—not because of a curse, but because I genuinely fell in love with the island, the people, and the lifestyle that Siargao offers.

If you really want to understand why so many people feel this way, don’t just visit Siargao for a few days. Stay for a month or more. Live like a local, work remotely, or simply embrace the slow island life. And don’t miss the Tri-Island Tour—a must-do that perfectly captures the magic of Siargao.

So, is the Siargao Curse real? Maybe not. But the island’s charm is so strong, it might just feel like one.