The Effect of Tourism on Economic Status Among Local Surfers in Siargao Island

This study assessed the perceived economic effects of surf tourism among local surfers in Siargao Island, Philippines, focusing on income growth, income stability and asset accumulation, livelihood resilience and social support, and overall economic status. A quantitative descriptive-comparative design was employed involving 200 local surfers selected through simple random sampling from Dapa, General Luna, Pilar, San Isidro, and Santa Monica. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics, the Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and pairwise comparisons. Results revealed generally favorable economic perceptions, with income growth receiving the highest mean (M = 3.54), followed by income stability and asset accumulation (M = 3.48), economic status (M = 3.45), and livelihood resilience and social support (M = 3.42). Significant differences emerged across economic dimensions (p = 0.012), particularly between income growth and livelihood resilience (p = 0.011). Seasonal earnings significantly differentiated assessments across all four dimensions, while selected differences were associated with age, education, surf role, and accreditation or association membership. The study concluded that perceived income opportunities did not translate equally into long-term financial security. Livelihood diversification, financial literacy, accessible accreditation, and off-season support programs are recommended. Although limited by self-reported data and geographical coverage, the findings provide evidence for community-centered tourism planning. Supporting Sustainable Development Goals 8, 11, and 17, the study contributes to sustainable livelihood development, coastal community resilience, and stakeholder collaboration.