DOT-13 repatriates 136 local tourists stranded in Caraga

The Department of Tourism Caraga (DOT-13) successfully repatriated 136 local tourists stranded in various tourist spots across the Caraga Region due to COVID-19 lockdowns.

These tourists, primarily stranded in Siargao Island and other provinces like Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, and Agusan del Norte, were sent home via a sweeper flight from Butuan to Manila.

DOT-13, in collaboration with local government units, covered the travel expenses of these tourists from their stranded locations to Bancasi Airport in Butuan City.

The agency is still working to determine the exact number of remaining stranded local tourists in the region and coordinating with LGUs for their repatriation.

Previously, DOT-13 provided financial assistance to 167 stranded local tourists and also repatriated foreign tourists in March and April.