Socorro, officially the Municipality of Socorro (Surigaonon: Lungsod nan Socorro; ), is a 4th class municipality in the province of Surigao del Norte, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 25,942 people. The municipal territory is contiguous with the island of Bucas Grande. Formerly a sitio and later a barrio in Dapa known as Bunga, it was established as a municipality on February 22, 1961, by virtue of Executive Order No. 219.

Etymology

The municipality's name is derived from Spanish for "help." A popular folklore suggested that the name originated from a Spanish priest's plea for help when his sailboat nearly capsized amid a storm while he was en route to officiate Mass in 1920. Brave local men of the then-sitio rushed to assist, saving the priest and his companions. In gratitude, the priest named the place “Socorro” to honor their courage and willingness to help others in danger. It was previously named Bunga, which translates to "fruit."

Geography

Barangays

Socorro is politically subdivided into 14 barangays. Each barangay consists of puroks while some have sitios.

Climate

Demographics

Socorro is noted for having 75 people's organization in 2023.

Economy

Socorro is a tourist destination and agricultural town, featuring the Sohoton Lagoons, Rock Islands, and the Atoyay Farmstead. The area also includes white sand beaches, limestone forests with high biodiversity, and communal agricultural areas like the Atoyay Farmstead. Notable wildlife species in the limestone forests include the tarsier, hornbill, and civet cat. Other attractions include several accessible lakes, Magkahuyog Falls, and extensive mangrove areas. Historical sites, such as the Colorum Uprising landmark, commemorating a 1924 revolt by a religious sect against government forces, while the Socorro Swimming Pool, originating from local springs, is a popular recreational site. Socorro also has abundant yet undeveloped mineral resources, such as ore covering 50 ha, nickel 60 ha, and iron and gold covering 70 ha.