What is the CARAGA Region in the Philippines?

The CARAGA Region, officially known as the Caraga Administrative Region or Region XIII, is one of the 17 administrative regions of the Philippines. It is located in the northeastern part of Mindanao, the second-largest island in the country.

CARAGA is known for its rich natural resources, including vast forests, mineral deposits (like nickel and gold), and biodiversity hotspots such as caves, waterfalls, and marine ecosystems. It is also home to diverse indigenous groups, including the Manobo, Mamanwa, and Lumad tribes, and features a blend of cultural festivals, beaches, and eco-tourism sites.

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Key Details:

CARAGA comprises five provinces:

  • Agusan del Norte
  • Agusan del Sur
  • Dinagat Islands
  • Surigao del Norte
  • Surigao del Sur

  • Major Cities: Butuan (the regional center), Surigao City (capital of Surigao del Norte), Tandag (capital of Surigao del Sur), and Bayugan (capital of Agusan del Sur).
  • Geography and Economy: The region covers about 18,846 square kilometers and has a population of around 2.6 million (based on recent Philippine Statistics Authority data). It’s heavily reliant on agriculture (rice, bananas, coconuts), mining, fishing, and tourism. It’s bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east, making it prone to typhoons but also rich in coastal beauty.
    -History and Name Origin**: Established as a separate region in 1995 under Republic Act No. 7901, “CARAGA” is an acronym derived from the names of its original provinces (CAtalanuan, RAhuba, Agusan, and Surigao—though the boundaries have since evolved). It was previously part of the larger Region XI.
  • Cultural Significance: CARAGA is renowned for its vibrant festivals, such as the Bonok-Bonok Festival in Surigao City (as highlighted in the context you provided), which celebrates indigenous heritage and religious traditions. It’s also a hub for eco-adventures, with sites like the Siargao Islands (a surfing paradise, though administratively under Surigao del Norte) and the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Why Visit?

CARAGA offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s accessible via airports in Butuan and Surigao, ferries from Cebu or Manila, or buses from other parts of Mindanao. However, travelers should prepare for occasional rough roads and check weather updates due to its tropical climate.

If you’re interested in the Bonok-Bonok Festival or specific spots in CARAGA (like Surigao City), let me know for more details! For official info, check the Philippine government’s tourism site or the Regional Development Council.

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