CONSUL GENERAL NEIL FERRER JOINS NEXT GEN VIP TOUR IN SIARGAO
Consul General Neil Frank R. Ferrer joins Next Gen VIP Tour 2025 participants for a group photo at the iconic Naked Island in Siargao. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Siargao, Philippines – Philippine Consul General in San Francisco Neil Frank R. Ferrer joined participants of the Next Generation (Next Gen) leg of the Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour 2025 in the island paradise of Siargao on 9–11 July 2025.
The Next Gen Tour is a specially curated component of the VIP Tour aimed at younger Filipino Americans and adventure-seekers, designed to foster deeper cultural connection through immersive and dynamic travel experiences in the Philippines.
In Siargao, often hailed as the surfing capital of the Philippines, the participants explored some of the island’s most iconic destinations. The first day included visits to the world-famous Cloud 9 Boardwalk and Surfing Area, Siargao Mountain View, the serene Secret Beach, scenic Coconut Road, and the natural tidal pools of Magpupungko, where participants marveled at the unique rock formations and swam in crystal-clear waters.
On the following day, participants set off on an island-hopping adventure across Daku Island, Guyam Island, and Naked Island, where they experienced the pristine beauty of Siargao’s white sand beaches and turquoise waters. A highlight of the day was a traditional boodle fight lunch served on the beach, showcasing Filipino hospitality and cuisine in a communal and festive setting.
Consul General Ferrer praised the Next Gen participants for their enthusiastic engagement throughout the tour, which not only promotes Philippine tourism but also strengthens ties between young Filipino Americans and their ancestral homeland.
“The Next Gen Tour is a powerful way to rediscover our roots and share in the beauty, culture, and community of the Philippines,” said Consul General Ferrer. “We hope that experiences like these inspire our younger kababayans to deepen their connection with the country and become ambassadors of our heritage abroad.”
Prior to arriving in Siargao, the Next Gen participants took part in joint activities in Manila alongside those in the Main VIP Tour. These included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument, a guided tour of historic Intramuros, a culinary experience in Binondo, and a visit to Project PEARLS in Tondo. After completing their Siargao itinerary, the Next Gen group rejoined the Main Tour participants in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, for the concluding leg of the program.The Siargao leg of the VIP Tour reflects the Department of Foreign Affairs’ broader efforts to engage the Filipino diaspora and highlight the Philippines as a world-class travel destination rooted in culture, nature, and people-to-people connections. END
Consul General Neil Ferrer, Consul General Senen Mangalile, Mrs. Mangalile, and fellow Next Gen VIP Tour 2025 participants pose at the iconic “Surfing Capital of the Philippines” marker in Siargao. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Consul General Neil Ferrer poses with General Luna, Siargao Mayor Johnson Sajulga and Vice Mayor Romina Sajulga during a dinner hosted by Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Consul General Neil Ferrer joins fellow Next Gen VIP Tour 2025 participants aboard a boat for the island-hopping adventure in Siargao. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Consul General Neil Ferrer poses with surfboards by the shore in Siargao, the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Consul General Neil Ferrer, Consul General Senen Mangalile (New York), Mrs. Fe Mangalile, and fellow Next Gen VIP Tour 2025 participants pose for a photo at the scenic Taktak Falls in Siargao. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Consul General Neil Frank R. Ferrer and Next Gen VIP Tour 2025 participants enjoy fresh coconut juice along the scenic shores of Siargao. (San Francisco PCG photo)