Dinagat, about 1 hour by motorboat from Surigao City, has so far almost no tourist infrastructure though this may change as soon as some investors will have discovered the beautiful tiny islets along its western coast. There are many excellent though unexplored sites for divers as well as spelunkers. Dinagat is a big, seven-town island lying between Southern Leyte and Surigao del Norte, of which it is a part, within the newly formed Caraga region.
The island is not without historical significance. During World War II, US Gen. Douglas MacArthur was quoted as saying that Dinagat was one of "three island-sentinels guarding the (southern) Philippines from the enemies in the Pacific."
Unib Islet - This islet, just ten minutes by pump boat from Basilisa, has the unspoiled Bitaug beach and several unexplored caves. It is surrounded by so far mostly undestroyed coral reefs in between interesting underwater rock formations. .
Hagakhak Islet - This uninhabited islet, best reached by pump boat from the village of San Roque, is known for beautiful above-water and underwater rock formations. There are several good but unexplored dive sites around the islet.
Magsaysay Islets - Not just one but a whole group of beautiful islets off the shore of Dinagat Island; several beaches with pure white sand and a cave, Suy-ang Cave, that waits to be explored.
KALESA
The kalesa or karitela is a horse-driven carriage that was introduced during the 18th century. It was used by Spanish officials and the nobles as a means of transportation.
[more]