Borongan’s Insurgency-Free Status Boosts Hopes for Eastern Samar Tourism

Posted on July 22, 2026 at 7:42 pm

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar — The recent declaration of Borongan City as being under a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) is expected to strengthen tourism not only in the city but across Eastern Samar, according to Eastern Samar Lone District Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales.

Gonzales said the declaration gives travelers greater confidence in visiting the province, noting that peace and security are often among the factors tourists consider when choosing a destination.

“How can we invite tourists if we still have conflict?” Gonzales said in a statement on Wednesday. “We are proud that Borongan has achieved this status since visitors are always concerned about what’s going on in the provincial capital.”

Borongan City was declared insurgency-free on July 13, becoming the 21st local government unit in Eastern Samar to be placed under a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition.

The lawmaker said the designation is expected to improve the province’s image as a safe destination and support local tourism, especially with the availability of regular commercial flights through Borongan City Airport.

Since 2019, the city government has been promoting Borongan as one of the country’s emerging surfing destinations. Its annual Surf City competition at Baybay Beach has drawn hundreds of surfers and spectators from Eastern Visayas and other parts of the country.

Aside from surfing, the city is expanding its tourism offerings by developing several island barangays as diving destinations. It has also reopened the Hebacong Sea of Clouds and Nature Park, giving visitors another option for nature and outdoor activities.

Improved air service is also expected to support tourism. Philippine Airlines recently increased its Borongan-Manila service via Cebu from two to three flights a week, operating every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

Eastern Samar is home to several tourist attractions, including the Balangiga Bells, San Antonio de Padua Church in Sulangan, the surfing beaches of Calicoan Island, Canhugas Nature Park in Hernani, Minasangay Island Ecological Park in Balangkayan, Amandaraga Falls in Lawaan, Sanizi Falls in Jipapad, Apiton Island in San Policarpo, and Higunom Island in Arteche.

Local officials hope that Borongan City’s improved security situation, combined with its growing tourism attractions and better transport links, will encourage more visitors to explore Eastern Samar.

Photo courtesy: Borongan City Information Office