Tandag is often referred to as Tandag City. It is a 5th class city and capital of the province of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. As of 2015, it has a population of 56,364 people. Farming and fishing are the main economic activity for most of the people in Tandag. Chief farm products are rice, corn, and coconut. Livestock and poultry raising are also important sources of income. Tandag has a national secondary airport and a seaport.

Many versions have been given regarding the name of Tandag. One such version said that Father Calan, Father Encarnacion and another priest were on their way to visit chieftain Suba to baptize his people. When one of the missionaries asked native rowing their boat what name of the place was with fingers pointing downward, the native who naught the priest meant the school of fish answered "tamda", meaning look down. This name later became Tandag. The natives later killed father Encarnacion, the member of the group.

The other version says that when De la Vega landed in Tandag to subdue the ferocious Caragas as the rebellious natives were called then, he did not know the name of the place, so he inquired from the native who was gathering the leaves of herbs locally known as tangad. The native who did not understand Spanish answered hesitantly "tangad." Later, the name was changed to Tandag. Another story tells a group of Spanish soldiers and missionaries who lost their way. When they asked for correct direction, the natives who could not understand a word they said only laughed at them all while saying the word "tank," meaning lost. Thus, the name Tandag means lost. The city celebrates the "Diwatahan Festival" on the third week of January in honor of Señor Sto. Niño. It also celebrates "Araw ng Tandag" every September 10 showcasing the city's blissful achievements through the years.

Airports in Tandag

1. Tandag Airport (TDG)

You will depart from Manila International Airport (MNL) and will land at the Tandag Airport (TDG). The flight takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. The fare starts from PHP 7487.00 nonstop. There are few Airlines to choose from. They are Cebu Pacific and Philippines Airlines.

How to Get Cheap Flights in Tandag?

Traveloka is a travel search engine that makes it easy for travellers to find the cheapest flights to Tandag. All you need to do is key in the information in the search box, and the application will recommend the best trip according to your budget. It compares flight prices across some trusted airlines to help you to get the best possible deal. Use Traveloka's price alert feature to be notified of flights in your desired price range to get the best flight price to Tandag.

When is the Best Time to Fly to Tandag

The Philippines are most popular during the dry season, between November and April. At this time the country is fully accessible, including its many beautiful islands and more remote areas. Temperatures are high during March and April, so it's best to travel during the cooler months of December to February. The climate in Tandag is hot, oppressive and overcast. Over the year, the temperature typically varies from 77°F to 89°F and is rarely below 74°F or above 92°F.

The wet season falls between May and October, but the rain isn't constant and rarely impacts on travel plans. You'll still enjoy hot, sunny days at this time, fewer crowds and lush green scenery. The shoulder months of May and November can represent good value for money - you'll miss the crowds, the weather's still pleasant and flights will be cheaper than during the high season. The weather can be unpredictable in the Philippines, and typhoons can sometimes occur as early as August or as late as January. If travelling during the start of the month, please be sure to secure accommodation far in advance as the knock-on effect from Easter can cause disruption. Temperatures will be at their peak, this being the last month of the dry season.

There are few festivals in Tandaq. Allaw Ta Apo Sandawa happens during the second week of April. It is the gathering of highland tribes in Kidapawan City, North Cotabato to pay respects to the sacred Mount Apo. Another event that you should not miss is the Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival where it is a local version of Hong Kong's dragon-boat races, featuring domestic and international teams competing in long wooden canoes on a course off White Beach. The Turumba Festival happens around April and May. This is a religious festival commemorating the seven sorrows of the Virgin Mary. The festival consists of seven novenas (acts of pious devotion), one for each sorrow held at weekends in Pakil, Laguna.

What are the Top 3 Things to Do in Tandag

1. Boulevard - This is a beautiful coastal walkway in Tandag where locals usually hang-out. It is a good place if you want to take a walk early in the morning as you watch the glowing sphere rises slowly into the dull morning sky, when it begins to illuminate the small town or to take a stroll in the late afternoon when the sun falls below the horizon and catch the breathtaking sunset.

It is a top destination for an afternoon walk, but it is best liked at night time because of the colourful lamp posts, windy sea air and various stalls that offer good Filipino street food such as fish balls and many more. There are many barbecue stalls where you could experience mouthwatering BBQ and open space for people to walk, watch the outdoor free video at night and for children to play around.

2. Mabua Beach - This is the most famous beach resort in Tandag. It is very accessible, which is why many locals flock there especially during the summer. The soothing wind which blows softly against your dust-powdered face and the fine black sand will surely mesmerize you. The sea water is clear and blue which urges people to take a good swim. The best time to visit the place is during the weekdays as it is quieter then than at weekends.

Nevertheless, if you wish to experience how Filipinos or Tandaganons, in particular, celebrate life in spite of the many adversities in life, do come during weekends as the karaoke's are full. There are lots of beach huts, many karaokes and many small shops where you can buy drinks and other stuff. If you wish to go there, bring some food with you as there is no restaurant inside.

3. Shrine of the Our Lady of Lourdes at Bongtud - It is also known as Tandag Grotto and is located at the summit of a mountain where you can have a full 360 view of the city. It is a tranquil place and it is perfect for meditation. It provides a good climb, good walk, excellent views and a good seascape around. When you are on top, you can see on one side the pier and the blue-green water. Then on the other hand you can spot the fishermen's boats lined up like colorful toys. Both are very attractive when seen from afar.