A Guide to Tubod Surigao's Festivals and Celebrations: A Colorful and Vibrant Culture

Tubod is a small and peaceful town that is rich in culture and traditions and is celebrated with various festivals and events throughout the year. It is a relatively small and remote town surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Despite its size, Tubod has a lot to offer visitors, from beautiful natural attractions to cultural attractions. 

The name 'Tubod' comes from the Visayan word 'tubod' which means 'spring' or 'spring of water'. The town is said to be named after a natural hot spring that was once the main source of water for the people of the area. 

 

According to local folklore, the first settlers in the area discovered a spring and found its water to be clean, clear, and plentiful. They were so grateful for the discovery that they decided to name their settlement after the spring, which eventually became known as Tubod Municipality.

Tubod's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice and maize being the main crops in the region. Other agricultural products are coconuts, vegetables, and fruits. Fishing is also an important industry, and the town's proximity to the sea provides a  livelihood for many locals. Small businesses and tourism also contribute to the local economy, and the town's festivals and natural attractions draw tourists to the area.

Festivals and Celebrations:

Tubod Surigao's festivals and celebrations are a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. These colorful and vibrant events showcase the city's traditions, history, and way of life. From attending the Tubod Town Fiesta street parade to sampling local delicacies at the Tagapan Festival, these festivals, and events are a great way to immerse yourself in Tubod's unique culture.

• Tubod Town Fiesta

Celebrated every December 2nd, the Tubod Town Fiesta is one of the most important events on the town's calendar. The festival features colorful parades, street dancing, cultural performances, and a variety of local cuisine. The highlight of the festival is the river procession, in which an image of  Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, the city's patron saint, is carried by boat along the Tubod River. 

•  Tubod Foundation Day

Celebrated annually on January 9th, Tubod Foundation Day commemorates Thanksgiving and the founding of the city. The festival is marked by a series of cultural performances, parades and sporting events. 

•   Araw ng Tubod

Celebrated annually on June 17th, Araw ng Tubod is a day to remember the city's heroes and martyrs who fought for the city's independence. The festival features flag-raising ceremonies, flower-laying ceremonies, and cultural performances.  Feast of the Holy Rosary – Celebrated annually on October 7th, the Feast of the Holy Rosary is a religious festival honoring Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, the patron saint of the city. The festival features processions of statues of patron saints, as well as various cultural performances and local delicacies. 

• Tagakpan Festival

Celebrated on December 4th each year, the Tagakpan Festival celebrates the city's agricultural heritage. The festival features a street parade of farmers and their produce,  cultural performances, and a local food fair. 

Apart from these big festivals and events, Tubod also hosts many smaller events throughout the year, including City anniversaries, Christmas, and Easter. Visitors to Tubod can experience the city's vibrant culture and traditions by attending these festivals and events. 

Nature Park in Tubod That Must-Visit Destination for Nature Lovers

• The Thrilling Activities that Await You at MAHUCDAM WATER NATURE ADVENTURE PARK

Surrounded by magnificent nature, it is a natural park where you can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and river trekking. The park is named after the Mahukudam River, which flows through the park and offers visitors a refreshing swimming experience. The park also has various waterfalls for visitors to explore, including the stunning Mahukudam Waterfall. 

Besides water activities, visitors can also participate in nature hikes to discover the park's lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. The park is home to a wide variety of birds and animals, including monkeys, wild boars, and civet cats.

Cabins and picnic areas are available for rent for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery. Visitors can also bring their own food and enjoy a picnic with family and friends. 

The Mahukudam Water Nature Adventure Park is the perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to experience the beauty of Surigao del Norte.

• A Refreshing Escape: Visiting Songkoy Cold Spring in Tubod

It's a refreshing escape from the heat of the Philippines' tropical climate. The cold springs are surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, creating an idyllic and tranquil environment.  

Visitors can cool off from the heat by taking a dip in the clear, cool spring waters. The water is so clear you can see the bottom and the water temperature is perfect for a refreshing swim. The spring surroundings are also well-kept, with picnic tables and benches available for visitors. Besides swimming, visitors can also explore the area and take nature walks. Lush greenery and towering trees provide a beautiful backdrop for relaxing walks. The area also has small caves and rock formations for visitors to explore.  

The entrance fee to the cold springs is affordable and there are small shops nearby where you can buy groceries and snacks. The friendly locals are also very helpful and willing to offer advice on the best places to visit in the area.  Overall, Songkoy Cold Spring is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the heat and enjoy the natural beauty of  Tubod, Surigao del Norte.

Hagkang cave

 This is a natural cave system known for its stunning rock formations and underground rivers. The cave is home to many bats and other wildlife, making it a unique and attractive place to visit.  Another must-see attraction in Tubod is the Tubod Marine Reserve. The reserve is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, fish, and sea turtles. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive and explore the sanctuary's vibrant underwater world. 

Mountain Trails

For those who prefer to stay on land, Tubod has a number of hiking trails that offer great views of the town's rolling hills and forests. One of his most popular hikes is the Mount Kapaya Trail, which takes about two to three hours and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. 

Other things to DO

In addition to its natural attractions, Tubod also has many cultural attractions, such as the Tubod Town Hall, a fine example of colonial architecture built during the Spanish colonial period. The city hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Tubod Town Fiesta celebrated each December, featuring colorful parades, street dancing, and cultural performances. 

Culinary Tubod is known for its delicious fish dishes such as kinilaw and grilled fish. The city also has many local delicacies such as binaki, a type of steamed rice cake flavored with coconut milk and sugar.  

How to Get There

Getting to Tubod can be a bit of a challenge as it is relatively remote and there are no airports or major transport hubs nearby. However, it is possible to reach Tubod by bus or van from Surigao City, which takes about 2-3 hours.  In summary, Tubod is a small and remote town, but rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. 

Whether you're exploring the stunning rock formations of Hag Kang Cave, snorkeling in the vibrant waters of  Tubod Marine Reserve, or hiking the scenic trails of Mount Kapaya, Tubod has something for everyone. Delicious food, friendly locals, and a relaxed atmosphere make Tubod hideaway worth visiting.