ExploreSiargao Terms of Use
1. User Agreement
1.1 Welcome to ExploreSiargao
Welcome to www.exploresiargao.com (the "ExploreSiargao Platform"), operated by ExploreSiargao Inc., a company based in the Philippines. Before using the ExploreSiargao Platform and the services offered by ExploreSiargao Inc., its affiliates (together, "ExploreSiargao"), or third-party Hosts through the platform, please review these Terms of Use ("Terms of Use") carefully. The terms "you" and "your" in these Terms of Use refer to (a) any person accessing the ExploreSiargao Platform, and (b) any individual for whom you make a purchase of the services.
ExploreSiargao provides an online marketplace that enables users to list, discover, and book travel and tourism services. Users who offer accommodations, activities, rentals, or other services are “Hosts,” and users who search for or book such services are “Guests.” Hosts are independent third parties, and Guests contract directly with Hosts when booking a service. ExploreSiargao is not an owner or operator of the properties, tours, equipment, or other services advertised by Hosts, and does not manage or control the Hosts or their listings. ExploreSiargao is not a party to the contracts formed between Guests and Hosts for bookings, nor is ExploreSiargao a real estate broker, travel agency, insurer, or employer of any Host. Except as described in these Terms (for example, facilitating payments), ExploreSiargao’s role is solely to connect Hosts and Guests and provide an intermediary platform. By using the ExploreSiargao Platform, you acknowledge that any agreement for a booking is between you and the Host, and ExploreSiargao disclaims liability for the acts or omissions of any Host or Guest to the fullest extent permitted by law.
ExploreSiargao reserves the right to change or update these Terms of Use at any time without prior notice. We recommend checking this page regularly to stay informed about any changes. Updated Terms of Use will be posted on this page with the date of the latest revision indicated.
By continuing to use the ExploreSiargao Platform after changes are made, you accept the updated Terms of Use. If you disagree with any revisions, you should stop using the Platform and services immediately. It is your responsibility to review the Terms of Use periodically.
While using the services, you may also encounter additional terms specific to certain services (e.g. particular booking conditions or promotional terms) detailed on the relevant pages. These additional terms, along with our Privacy Policy, are considered part of these Terms of Use.
The ExploreSiargao Platform (www.exploresiargao.com) and its subdomains, features, content, and services are owned and managed by ExploreSiargao Inc. All materials on this Platform – including text, data, graphics, articles, photos, images, videos, audio, and other content – are protected by copyright and intellectual property laws. You may access this content for your personal, non-commercial use only. Access is provided on a non-exclusive, non-transferable basis in accordance with these Terms of Use. ExploreSiargao reserves the right to modify, remove, or change the content or functionality of the website at any time without notice.
You must adhere to all copyright notices, trademark rules, and restrictions on the Platform. You are not allowed to use, copy, reproduce, modify, translate, publish, broadcast, transmit, distribute, perform, display, license, sell, or exploit any part of the website or its content for any purpose without prior written consent from the owner or rightful licensor.
ExploreSiargao provides services either directly or through third-party partners, as detailed on our Platform. These services are for your personal use and are not intended for resale or use by unauthorized third parties. We may change, suspend, or discontinue any services, features, databases, or content at any time. We may also impose limits on certain features or restrict your access to parts or all of the services without notice or liability.
We do not guarantee that our services will always be available or uninterrupted. ExploreSiargao will not be liable for any unavailability of the Platform or services. You are responsible for making any necessary arrangements to access the Platform (including maintaining your internet connection and compatible devices) and ensuring that all individuals who access the Platform through your account or internet connection are aware of and comply with these Terms of Use.
You may link to the ExploreSiargao website only with prior written consent from us unless in a positive notion. We reserve the right to revoke linking permission at our discretion. You must not frame the site or link to it in a way that suggests any form of association, approval, or endorsement by ExploreSiargao without explicit permission.
You are solely responsible for your interactions with other users of the Platform. Hosts must upload a business permit to receive payouts for their services on our platform, but ExploreSiargao does not accept responsibility for verifying the identity or backgrounds of Hosts, Guests, or other users you may interact with through our Platform. We do not conduct criminal background checks or guarantee the accuracy of any user-provided information. Use caution and good judgment when engaging with others. Any information or content provided by other users (including descriptions of properties, activities, or rentals) is used at your own risk. ExploreSiargao is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from your communications or dealings with other users on or off the Platform.
ExploreSiargao is not the publisher of the content provided by Hosts or other users, and we assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, misrepresentations, or falsehoods in any user-provided content. This includes listings, profiles, ratings, and reviews. While we require users to follow our guidelines, we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any listing descriptions, ratings, or other content posted on the Platform. Accessing or relying on content on ExploreSiargao is at your own risk, and you agree that we will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from content provided by others.
For your convenience, we provide tools to sort and filter search results based on criteria such as availability, price, popularity, and reviews. We continually optimize our Platform and may test different algorithms to improve user experience. These sorting and filtering tools are offered as-is; we do not guarantee that search results will always be presented in any particular order. Rankings and search order may change as we refine our services.
All intellectual property rights associated with the ExploreSiargao Platform and its content are either owned by ExploreSiargao or licensed to us. This includes all content, software, and materials provided through the Platform, which are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. By accessing and using our Platform, you agree that you will not:
Modify or Create Derivatives: You will not modify, publish, transmit, distribute, participate in the transfer or sale of, create derivative works from, or in any way exploit any part of the Platform or its content without express permission.
Personal Use: You may download or copy content for personal, non-commercial use only, provided you retain all copyright and proprietary notices. Any use beyond personal, non-commercial purposes requires written permission from ExploreSiargao or the relevant rights holder.
Any rights not expressly granted to you in these Terms of Use are reserved by ExploreSiargao and its licensors.
When you contribute information or content to the ExploreSiargao Platform (for example, by creating a listing, posting a review, uploading photos, or providing other materials – collectively, "User Submissions"), you agree to the following terms regarding your content:
License Grant to ExploreSiargao: You grant ExploreSiargao and its affiliates a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to use, copy, modify, distribute, publicly display, and create derivative works from your User Submissions in connection with operating and marketing the Platform. This means we may use your content across our services and promotional channels (including social media, emails, and other media) to promote ExploreSiargao and the listings on our site. This license includes all intellectual property or proprietary rights in your content and is provided to us at no cost. (For example, if you submit a photograph or a written review, we may feature it on our website or in advertising materials to help inform other users about our services.)
Personal Data and Privacy: You allow ExploreSiargao to collect and handle any personal data included in your User Submissions in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Please do not include personal information in content that you expect to be public (like reviews or forum posts) that you are not comfortable sharing.
License for Other Users: You grant other ExploreSiargao users a non-exclusive license to access and use your User Submissions through the Platform, strictly as allowed by the Platform’s functionality and these Terms of Use. For instance, a Guest may view a Host’s listing photos and descriptions for purposes of considering or making a booking.
Content Modification: You acknowledge that ExploreSiargao may reformat, excerpt, or translate your User Submissions as necessary (for example, to fit the design of our website or mobile apps, or to make content accessible in different languages). We will not alter the meaning of your content, and this does not change your ownership of your submissions.
Compliance and Responsibility: You represent and warrant that your User Submissions do not violate any laws or infringe the rights of third parties. This means you promise that you either own the content you post or have obtained all necessary permissions to post it, and that sharing it on our Platform (and allowing us and other users to use it as described above) will not violate anyone else’s rights. You are solely responsible for the content you provide and any consequences of sharing it.
ExploreSiargao is not liable for any User Submissions, and we may remove or disable access to any such content for any reason. However, the obligations and rights you grant to us (such as the license above) continue even if we remove your content or if you delete your account, to the extent that we have relied on those rights (for example, in marketing materials already in circulation).
By using the ExploreSiargao Platform, you agree to conduct yourself lawfully and respectfully. Specifically, you agree that you will NOT:
(a) Infringe or Violate Rights: Use the Platform in a manner that infringes or violates the intellectual property, privacy, or other rights of any third party. This includes uploading content that you do not have the right to share.
(b) Break Laws or Regulations: Violate any applicable law, rule, or regulation in connection with your use of the Platform. You are responsible for understanding and obeying the laws that apply to your use of our services or to any bookings you make (e.g. local rental laws, safety regulations, tax obligations, etc.).
(c) Post Harmful or Illegal Content: Post or transmit any content that is fraudulent, deceptive, defamatory, obscene, pornographic, vulgar, or offensive, or that promotes discrimination, bigotry, racism, hatred, harassment, or harm against any individual or group. Likewise, do not share content that contains viruses, malware, or any other harmful code.
(d) Engage in Unauthorized Commercial Activities: Use the Platform for any commercial or promotional purposes not expressly permitted by ExploreSiargao. For example, you may not conduct contests, sweepstakes, barter, advertise products or services, or run pyramid schemes through our Platform without our prior written consent. The Platform is meant for booking travel services offered through ExploreSiargao, and not for unrelated business solicitation.
(e) Impersonate or Misrepresent: Impersonate any person or entity, or falsely state or otherwise misrepresent yourself or your affiliation with any person or entity. Your ExploreSiargao profile must contain truthful and accurate information about you – misrepresenting your identity or qualifications (for example, a Host listing a property you don’t own or manage) is prohibited.
(f) Compromise Platform Security: Attempt to hack, disrupt, disable, or interfere with the functioning of the Platform. Do not upload or distribute any virus, worm, trojan horse, corrupted file, or any software or program that may damage the operation of the Platform or any user’s devices. Similarly, refrain from any actions that impose an unreasonable load on our infrastructure or that bypass measures we use to secure the Platform.
(g) Violate Host Rules or Local Requirements: If you are a Guest, you agree to abide by the Host’s rules and instructions for any property, activity, or rental you book. Hosts typically provide rules, usage guidelines, safety instructions, or other terms for their listing. These rules are part of your agreement with the Host, and you must honor them. You also agree to treat the Host’s property, rental and any provided equipment with respect, and to avoid causing nuisance or damage. For example, if a Host’s house rules forbid smoking or require quiet hours, you must comply. Failure to follow a Host’s reasonable rules or local law can result in your booking being canceled without refund and/or your account being suspended. Guests should additionally behave appropriately and not harass or harm Hosts, their personnel, neighbors, or property.
By following these guidelines, you help keep ExploreSiargao a trustworthy and safe community. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to the Platform for any behavior that we deem abusive, unlawful, or in violation of these Terms of Use.
ExploreSiargao reserves the right (but not the obligation) to monitor user activity, messages and content on the Platform and to remove any User Submissions at our discretion. This may happen for various reasons, including:
Complaints or Allegations: If we receive a credible complaint or allegation that content you have posted is inappropriate, infringes someone’s rights, or otherwise violates these Terms or our policies, we may remove that content while we review the issue.
Policy Violations: If we suspect that any content you’ve provided violates these Terms of Use, our Content Policy, or any applicable law, we may remove it without notice.
Other Reasons: We reserve the right to remove content or suspend any user account at any time, for any reason or no stated reason. We are not required to justify our moderation decisions, though we aim to act fairly and consistently in enforcing our policies.
You are responsible for all of your activity on the ExploreSiargao Platform and for all content you provide. Specifically:
Your Assurances: You affirm that you have all necessary rights and permissions to share any content you upload (as noted in Section 6.1), and that your postings and bookings will not violate any agreements you have with third parties (for example, agreements with property owners, homeowner associations, or employers), nor any applicable law. Hosts, for example, must ensure they have the legal right to rent out a property or offer a service they list.
Prohibited Activities: You agree not to use the Platform to facilitate any fraudulent or illegal acts. This includes refraining from making any speculative, false, or fraudulent reservation, or any reservation in anticipation of demand. You also must not solicit personal information from other users for unlawful purposes or attempt to obtain login credentials or other sensitive information (no “phishing” or social engineering). Additionally, you will not attempt to probe, scan, or test the vulnerability of any ExploreSiargao system or network or breach any security or authentication measures.
No Data Mining: You will not use any robot, spider, scraper, crawler, or other automated means or interface not provided by us to access the Platform or extract data. The only exception is for search engines or archival services operating on our site in compliance with our robots.txt file.
No Reverse Engineering: You will not attempt to decipher, decompile, disassemble, or reverse engineer any of the software or code comprising or in any way making up a part of the ExploreSiargao Platform. Our platform’s technical infrastructure is proprietary, and any attempt to derive source code or underlying ideas is prohibited.
If you violate any of the above commitments, ExploreSiargao may take enforcement action against you under these Terms, including removing offending content, suspending or terminating your account, or pursuing any other remedies available at law.
To access certain features of the Platform (such as making a booking or listing a property or service as a Host), you need to register and maintain an account with ExploreSiargao (an "ExploreSiargao Account"). You may register as a Guest (to make bookings) or as a Host (to offer services), or both. You will be required to provide a valid email address (or sign in via a third-party login when available) and create a password, or otherwise authenticate via supported sign-in methods. This account registration and the login credentials you choose (username and password) constitute your ExploreSiargao User ID.
When creating your account, you must provide accurate, current, and complete information. This includes your full name, a valid email address, and any other information requested during signup. You agree not to impersonate anyone or use details that you are not authorized to use (for example, don’t use someone else’s email or a name that you are not legally allowed to use). ExploreSiargao reserves the right to refuse registration or cancel an account if we suspect false or misleading information, or for any other reason at our discretion.
You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your password and account. Do not share your password with others. You agree to notify ExploreSiargao immediately at our contact email (see Section 20) if you suspect any unauthorized use of your account or any other breach of security. ExploreSiargao will not be liable for losses caused by any unauthorized use of your account, but you may be held liable for losses of ExploreSiargao or others due to such unauthorized use.
In the course of using the Platform, you may need to provide additional personal information to enable certain features – for example, payment information to make a booking, or a phone number to receive booking updates. All personal information you provide to us must be truthful and belong to you (or you must have the legal authority to provide it). Our use of personal data is governed by our Privacy Policy (see Section 11). By providing your contact information, you consent to receive communications from ExploreSiargao electronically (such as via email or app notifications) regarding your account, bookings, and use of the services. These communications are part of the Platform’s operation (for example, booking confirmations, reminders, and updates).
You agree not to create multiple accounts for the same person or entity without permission, and not to create an account or use the Platform if you are a person barred from receiving services under the laws of the applicable jurisdiction (for example, if you are on a sanctions list, or have been banned from our Platform previously).
If you register as a Host to offer accommodations, activities, rentals, or other services through ExploreSiargao, you must meet additional requirements to ensure the integrity of the marketplace:
Identity Verification: You may be required to verify your identity and/or business status. ExploreSiargao may ask for information such as a valid government-issued ID, proof of address, a selfie or live identity check, or other verification documents to confirm your identity. We may also request proof that you have the right to act as a Host (for example, proof of ownership or authorization to list a property). Hosts agree to provide truthful, up-to-date information and documents for verification purposes.
Business Permits and Legal Compliance: Hosts are responsible for understanding and complying with all laws and regulations that apply to the services they offer. This means you must obtain and maintain any required permits, licenses, or registrations before listing a property or service. For example, if local law requires a permit to operate a tour or a license to rent out a vacation home, you must have that in place. By listing on ExploreSiargao, you represent and warrant that you hold all necessary permits and licenses to legally provide your hosted service, and that your offering complies with zoning, safety, insurance, and other regulations. We may ask you to provide evidence of such compliance (such as a scan of a permit or a license number). Failure to comply with applicable laws or to provide proof upon request can result in removal of your listing or termination of your account.
Banking Information for Payouts: To receive payments, Hosts must provide valid payout information (such as bank account details). You represent that any bank account or financial account you link to your ExploreSiargao account for payouts is held in your name or your business’s name, and that you are authorized to use that account. ExploreSiargao uses third-party payment processors to remit payouts (see Section 10), and accurate banking information is required to ensure you receive your funds. Hosts are responsible for keeping their payout information up to date. Incorrect or out-of-date banking details may result in payment delays or failures, for which ExploreSiargao is not liable.
Additional Host Obligations: You agree to maintain your listings with accurate information (description, availability, pricing, rules, etc.), to fulfill any booking you accept, and to provide the booked services in a safe and professional manner. Hosts should communicate clearly with Guests regarding any rules or requirements (such as check-in procedures or equipment usage instructions). Hosts are strongly discouraged from canceling bookings; cancellations by Hosts disrupt guests’ plans and may result in penalties as outlined in Section 10.10.
By registering as a Host, you authorize ExploreSiargao to conduct background or legal checks as permitted by law (e.g., verification of business legitimacy or screening against government watchlists) and you agree to promptly provide any information we reasonably request for these purposes. ExploreSiargao reserves the right to suspend or remove Host accounts that do not meet the above requirements or violate our standards.
After completing a booking through ExploreSiargao, Guests may have the opportunity to submit a review of the experience (e.g. stay or activity) and overall service. ExploreSiargao may send you email reminders or app notifications inviting you to provide a review. Providing a review is optional, but highly encouraged as it helps other users make informed decisions. These review requests are considered transactional communications (related to your booking) and are not marketing messages.
When you submit a review, please ensure it is factually accurate and fair. We do not impose a specific word limit, but concise, constructive feedback is most useful. Reviews should be submitted within a certain time frame after your booking (typically within 30 days of completion) to ensure relevance.
ExploreSiargao generally publishes reviews on the relevant listing’s page within 72 hours of submission, provided the review meets our guidelines. Reviews are displayed to give future customers insight into the Host’s services and the guest experience. In some cases, writing a review might make you eligible for a small reward (for example, ExploreSiargao credits applicable to future bookings), though any such incentives will be subject to separate terms. Each account may submit only one review per booking. Attempting to submit multiple reviews for the same experience (or coordinating with others to manipulate review outcomes) is a violation of these Terms. Suspected fraud or abuse (such as incentivized positive reviews or defamatory false reviews) may result in removal of reviews and corrective action on the accounts involved. ExploreSiargao also reserves the right to deduct any granted credits or benefits if we determine that a review was not provided in good faith.
By submitting a review or any content (such as photos or videos) to the Platform, you grant ExploreSiargao a perpetual, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, modify, translate, publicly display, distribute, and create derivative works from that content in any medium. This means we have the right to feature your reviews or photos in our marketing materials, social media, or other channels as we see fit, without further notice or compensation to you. You also permit ExploreSiargao to edit or remove your content at our discretion. For example, we might correct minor typos in a review or remove a photo that violates our guidelines. We will not alter the substantive meaning of your reviews.
You confirm that you have all necessary rights to the content you post and that sharing it does not infringe any third-party rights or violate any laws. If your review includes images or personal information of others, you must have their consent to share it. Reviews should be based on your real experience and honest opinion. We do not tolerate reviews that are harassing, hateful, discriminatory, or that include profanity or explicit content. Additionally, reviews should not include personal data (like phone numbers, addresses, full names) of anyone other than yourself, and should not be used to promote external products or services.
All user-generated content on ExploreSiargao (including reviews, forum posts, Q&A, etc.) must comply with these Terms of Use and our content guidelines. We reserve the right to remove or refuse to publish any content that we believe violates our standards or policies. This can include content that is off-topic, appears fraudulent, or that we are required to remove by law or legal process. If a review is disputed by a Host or another user (for instance, claimed to be fake or defamatory), ExploreSiargao may investigate and decide, at our sole discretion, whether to keep, edit, or remove the review.
ExploreSiargao may also intervene to stop abuse of the reviews system. For example, if we detect an effort to artificially inflate ratings (through multiple accounts or quid-pro-quo review swapping), we may remove affected reviews and take action against those accounts.
You agree that ExploreSiargao has the right to take legal action against anyone who violates your rights or our rights in the content you submit (for example, someone posting your content elsewhere without permission, or a competitor scraping our reviews). By posting content, you appoint ExploreSiargao as your agent to enforce copyrights or other rights in that content against third-party infringers, but only to the extent that such enforcement is necessary to protect our Platform or the integrity of the content on it.
Aside from this, you remain fully responsible for the content you submit. If your content causes harm (for instance, a defamatory statement in a review that leads to a claim), you may be held liable. ExploreSiargao merely provides the platform for sharing content and does not assume liability for user posts.
Any feedback, comments, or suggestions you provide to ExploreSiargao regarding our Platform or services (for example, ideas to improve features or user experience) is entirely voluntary. We will be free to use such feedback as we see fit and have no obligation to keep it confidential or to compensate you for it. Similarly, reviews and other user submissions are considered non-confidential and may be visible to others. We encourage you to be truthful but also mindful about the information you share publicly. ExploreSiargao is not responsible for any personal information you choose to include in content that is published (like a review).
By using ExploreSiargao, you acknowledge that user-submitted content (including your own) may be utilized by ExploreSiargao for various purposes (in accordance with the licenses you’ve granted us), and that you have no expectation of privacy or compensation for that content beyond what is outlined in these Terms and our Privacy Policy.
When you book a service (accommodation, activity, rental, etc.) on ExploreSiargao, you may receive either an instant confirmation or a pending confirmation, depending on the Host’s settings. For many listings, availability is updated in real-time and your booking will be confirmed immediately. In other cases, the Host may have a short window to manually accept the booking; the Platform will indicate if a booking is "request pending" and show an estimated confirmation time. Please note that any confirmation times shown are estimates – actual response times may vary. You will receive a notification (via email and/or your ExploreSiargao account) once your booking is confirmed. Do not consider a booking final until you have received a confirmation. If a requested booking is not confirmed or is declined, any payment you made will be refunded (or the transaction voided) as per our payment processor’s procedures.
Upon confirmation, a binding agreement is formed between you (the Guest) and the Host for the provision of the services booked, subject to any additional terms the Host has specified (such as house rules or usage policies) and the cancellation policy applicable. ExploreSiargao will issue you a booking reference or voucher that you may need to present to the Host when you redeem the service (for instance, at check-in or the activity meeting point).
All bookings on ExploreSiargao require upfront payment in order to secure the reservation. This means when you submit a booking request (for a request-type booking) or instantly book a listing, you must provide payment information and authorize the full charge for the booking at that time. ExploreSiargao uses a third-party payment processor (currently Xendit) to handle payments securely. When you pay through our Platform, your payment will be processed by Xendit (or another authorized payment gateway) and the funds will be collected on behalf of the Host. Once your payment is successfully processed, both you and the Host will receive confirmation of the completed transaction.
Payment of the booking price in full is required to confirm your reservation, unless explicitly stated otherwise (for example, if a special promotion allows a deposit with balance later – but such cases are rare on our Platform and would have their own terms). By making the payment, you acknowledge that ExploreSiargao’s payment processor is authorized to charge your provided payment method for the total amount, including the listing price, applicable taxes, and any service fees (detailed below). This upfront payment constitutes full settlement of the amounts due for the booking from the Guest’s side. Guests will not be asked to pay the Host additional fees in cash on arrival for the base services covered by the booking, except for any optional add-ons or local charges expressly disclosed (for example, equipment rental fees not included in an activity, local tourism taxes, or security deposits for accommodations, if applicable).
All transactions on ExploreSiargao are conducted in Philippine Pesos (PHP). If your payment method’s currency is different, our payment processor will handle the conversion to PHP at their prevailing exchange rate. ExploreSiargao is not responsible for the exchange rate applied by the payment provider or any foreign transaction fees that your bank or card issuer may charge. The amount charged in your local currency (if viewed on your statement) may vary due to exchange rate fluctuations. We recommend using a payment method with no or low foreign transaction fees if you are transacting from outside the Philippines.
ExploreSiargao will generally display the total price in PHP, but may show approximate conversions in other currencies. You agree to pay the amount in PHP as shown at checkout. Any currency conversion or bank fees on the payer’s side are your responsibility. All prices are exclusive of VAT and other applicable taxes unless stated. If taxes are displayed or added at checkout, those will be charged as part of the total.
Our payment processor employs industry-standard security measures. ExploreSiargao does not store your full payment card information on our servers; that information is handled by the payment gateway in accordance with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards.
Using ExploreSiargao may incur certain service fees, which enable us to operate and continually improve the Platform. By making or accepting bookings, both Guests and Hosts agree to the applicable fees as described here and on our website:
Host Commission: For each booking facilitated through ExploreSiargao, Hosts are charged a commission fee on the amount paid by the Guest (excluding Guest service fees and taxes). The commission rate is 12% (plus any applicable VAT) for property accommodations (e.g. villas, hotels, homestays) and 17% (plus VAT) for activities and rentals (e.g. tours, surf lessons, vehicle rentals). This commission is deducted from the payout to the Host for that booking. Host commissions are standard practice in the travel industry, typically ranging from 10% to 35%. ExploreSiargao’s commission structure falls within this range, designed to support platform maintenance, secure payment processing, and marketing of Host listings.
Guest Service Fee: Guests are charged a service fee on each booking, calculated as 3% of the booking subtotal (before taxes). This Guest service fee is added on top of the listed price at checkout, and helps cover customer support, payment processing, and platform services provided to the Guest. Many online booking platforms charge guests a service fee (often around 6–15% of the booking cost); ExploreSiargao’s guest fee is set at a modest 3% to remain affordable for travelers. The exact amount of the fee will be shown to you at the time of booking before you confirm payment.
Taxes on Fees: Where applicable, VAT (Value Added Tax) or other taxes on the above fees will be added. For example, if VAT applies to the Host commission or Guest fee, it will be calculated and collected in addition to the base fee percentage. Any such tax will be clearly indicated in price breakdowns.
These fees are used to operate the platform and provide services such as secure payments, user support, fraud prevention, and marketing. ExploreSiargao reserves the right to adjust its fees and fee structure from time to time. If we introduce new fees or change existing fees, we will provide advance notice (for example, by emailing users or posting an update on our site). Continued use of the Platform or further bookings after the effective date of a fee change will constitute acceptance of the new fees. Hosts and Guests are responsible for any fees that apply to their usage of ExploreSiargao as outlined here or on the Platform at the time of booking.
Community Contribution: As part of our commitment to the local community, ExploreSiargao may donate a portion of the Guest service fees (up to 10%) to local NGOs, community projects, or environmental causes. (See Section 10.11 for details.)
ExploreSiargao will remit payouts to Hosts for completed bookings, after deducting the applicable Host commission and any taxes on the commission. Payout Timeline: To protect Guests and ensure a smooth experience, ExploreSiargao releases the Host’s payout only after the guest’s stay or service is successfully completed. In general, payouts are initiated approximately 1–2 weeks after the guest’s checkout date or the activity’s completion date. This waiting period allows us to handle any immediate issues (such as a guest arriving and finding a problem, or any initial dispute) before funds are released.
For example, if a Guest checks out of an accommodation on July 15, the Host’s payout for that booking would typically be initiated by July 22–29. Please note that the exact timing can vary based on bank processing times, holidays, or if additional verification is needed. Once initiated, bank transfers may take up to 14 days to reflect in your account depending on your bank’s processing speeds.
Payout Method: Hosts must ensure that their bank account or payout details on file are accurate (see Section 8.3). ExploreSiargao (through its payment processor) will send payouts to the provided account. All payouts are made in PHP (Philippine Pesos). If your bank account is in a different currency, your bank will convert the amount and may charge a currency conversion fee. ExploreSiargao is not responsible for delays or losses caused by incorrect payout information provided by the Host or by banking intermediaries.
Payout Notifications: Hosts will receive a notification when a payout is being processed, including details of which booking it pertains to. Hosts can also view their balance and payout status in their ExploreSiargao account dashboard.
In the event a booking is canceled or refunded (see cancellation policies below), the Host’s payout might be adjusted or canceled accordingly. If a Host was already paid for a booking that is later refunded to the Guest (due to a chargeback, dispute, or authorized refund), the Host may be required to reimburse ExploreSiargao for the payout (or it may be offset against future payouts).
ExploreSiargao strives to maintain a fair marketplace and the best available pricing for all users. We reserve the right to cancel bookings or refuse services if a booking violates our policies or terms, or if we believe it was made in error or fraud. For instance, if a listing was mistakenly shown with an extremely incorrect price (e.g., a $500 per night villa listed for $5 due to a typographical error), we may cancel the booking to rectify the error, consistent with industry practice for obvious mistakes. In such cases, we will inform you and issue a full refund. Similarly, if we suspect a booking was made through unauthorized means or in violation of Section 7.1 (e.g., a fraudulent payment or a violation of local law), we may cancel that booking at our discretion.
Accuracy of Information: Hosts are expected to provide accurate information about their listings, including pricing and availability. However, ExploreSiargao cannot guarantee that every listing’s details or pricing are error-free or up-to-date at all times. There may be rare occasions where incorrect information (such as a pricing error or an availability sync issue) affects a booking. If we discover a material error in a listing that impacts your booking, we will contact the affected parties (Host and Guest) to attempt to resolve it – which could include offering alternatives, adjusting the price, or, if necessary, canceling the booking with a refund.
All prices on the Platform are shown exclusive of taxes and fees unless stated otherwise. The final price (inclusive of applicable taxes, ExploreSiargao fees, and any additional charges) will be shown at checkout. Guests are responsible for paying the total price shown at checkout. Hosts are responsible for paying any relevant taxes on the income they receive (except for any taxes we are required to collect and remit on their behalf, if applicable by law).
ExploreSiargao takes platform security seriously. If you suspect that your payment method has been used on ExploreSiargao without your authorization, or if you notice any suspicious activity (such as unknown bookings on your account or communications suggesting fraud), contact your payment provider and ExploreSiargao immediately. Your payment provider (bank or card issuer) can secure your account and possibly reverse unauthorized charges. Meanwhile, inform us so we can investigate and take appropriate action on our Platform (such as freezing the account or stopping a fraudulent booking).
We monitor transactions for signs of fraud. For your security, we may reach out for verification if something about a transaction appears irregular (for example, a high-value booking made from a new location). This could include verifying your identity or confirming ownership of the payment method. If we cannot verify the legitimacy of a booking, we reserve the right to cancel it in order to prevent fraud.
Never transfer money outside of the ExploreSiargao system for a booking. All payments for bookings should be made through the official ExploreSiargao checkout. Paying outside the Platform (e.g., direct bank transfer to a Host) is against our Terms and voids any protections (you could be scammed with no recourse). We will not be able to assist with or trace payments made outside our system.
For convenience, ExploreSiargao (via our payment processor) may offer to securely save your payment details – such as credit card or e-wallet information – to facilitate faster checkouts on future bookings. This is optional and done only with your consent. If you choose to save your payment method, it will be tokenized and stored by our PCI-compliant payment provider. We will not store raw credit card numbers on our servers.
Saved payment methods can be managed in your account settings (you can add or remove cards, etc.). You remain responsible for ensuring that any saved payment method is current, valid, and has sufficient funds for charges. If charges to your saved payment fail (e.g., card expired or insufficient funds), we may notify you to update your info, and we reserve the right to cancel any pending bookings if payment cannot be completed.
By storing a payment method, you authorize ExploreSiargao to charge that method for future bookings you initiate, subject to these Terms. We will always provide you with a review of the charges before finalizing a booking.
ExploreSiargao supports multiple payment methods for your convenience, including major credit cards, debit cards, and certain digital wallets or other payment solutions, as made available by our payment processor (Xendit) and as appropriate for your region. When you select a payment method at checkout, you agree to the terms and conditions of that payment provider in addition to these Terms of Use. For example, if you pay with a credit card, you must comply with your cardholder agreement; if you pay via a third-party wallet or bank transfer app, the terms of that service apply.
By entering your payment details and confirming a booking, you authorize ExploreSiargao and our payment processor to charge the specified payment method for the total amount of your booking (including all fees and taxes). You also authorize ExploreSiargao to charge or debit your payment method for other amounts you owe in connection with your use of the Platform, such as cancellation fees (per the policy below) or damage costs that you have agreed to pay.
Validity of Payment: You represent that the payment information you provide is accurate, that you are authorized to use the payment method, and that you will monitor and ensure sufficient funds or credit availability to cover the charges. If your payment cannot be completed (due to insufficient funds, expired card, or any other reason), the booking may be canceled and you may be liable for any applicable cancellation fees or consequences. In such cases, ExploreSiargao also reserves the right to seek collection of the owed amount by other legal means, including using debt collection services, and you may be responsible for any costs of recovery.
Except in case of authorized refunds (as described below) or manifest error, all payments made are non-refundable. Chargebacks or payment disputes initiated by you with your bank without valid cause may be treated as a breach of these Terms. We encourage Guests to follow the cancellation process outlined here, rather than going directly to their bank, for faster resolution.
Guest-Initiated Cancellations: If you (the Guest) need to cancel a booking, the refund you receive will depend on the Host’s cancellation policy that was disclosed at the time of booking. Different Hosts may choose different cancellation terms (for example, one Host may allow free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in, whereas another may have a stricter "no refund" policy after booking). You should carefully review the cancellation policy on the listing page or booking details before you book and in your confirmation email. When initiating a cancellation through the ExploreSiargao Platform, you will be informed of any refund due, if any, according to that policy.
If you cancel before the deadline specified in the Host’s cancellation policy (e.g., cancel X days in advance as required), you will typically receive a full refund of the amount you paid. However, if the Host’s policy explicitly states a partial refund (e.g., 50% refund for cancellations within a certain window), we will refund the appropriate portion accordingly.
If you cancel after the deadline (meaning your cancellation is last-minute or outside the allowed period), the booking is generally non-refundable. The Host is entitled to keep the payout for that booking, and ExploreSiargao will not refund the payment to you, except for any security deposit which would be handled per Host’s rules. After the cancellation period has passed, neither the listing price nor the service fee will be refunded. Please understand that Hosts rely on firm bookings and may have turned away other guests, or incurred preparation costs.
If you fail to show up for a booking (a "no-show") without any cancellation, it is treated as a cancellation after the deadline and no refund will be issued.
Host-Initiated Cancellations: If the Host cancels your booking at any time before the service is delivered (for example, a Host can’t honor a reservation or an activity provider cancels a tour), you are entitled to a full refund of the amount you paid. ExploreSiargao will process this refund to your original payment method. Additionally, we will make reasonable efforts to help you find a similar alternative (though we cannot guarantee an exact replacement). Hosts who cancel bookings may face consequences including automated reviews indicating a cancellation, financial penalties, or account suspension, as such cancellations disrupt user experience. (While this is an internal Host policy matter, we mention it to reassure Guests that Host cancellations are taken seriously.)
Extenuating Circumstances (Force Majeure): In rare cases, you may be entitled to cancel with a refund even when a Host’s strict cancellation policy would normally disallow it, if unforeseen extraordinary events beyond your control prevent you from using the booking. These events can be considered Force Majeure, and may include serious natural disasters (e.g., typhoons, earthquakes), sudden travel restrictions or government orders (e.g., lockdowns, flight bans), outbreaks of disease, or other major safety issues in the destination. If you believe you must cancel due to such an event, you should contact ExploreSiargao support and provide documentation or evidence of the issue (for example, a government travel advisory or positive Covid test, etc.). ExploreSiargao will review on a case-by-case basis in line with our extenuating circumstances policy (which may be updated as situations evolve). If approved, we may override the Host’s policy to provide an appropriate refund or credit. Hosts are required not to charge Guests for cancellations due to force majeure events affecting the Guest, and likewise, Hosts will not be charged commission for those canceled reservations.
Examples of force majeure where a refund or change of booking dates may be granted: A super typhoon hits Siargao and flights are canceled on the day you were to travel; a sudden government order prohibits travel to the area. These are considered beyond your control. On the other hand, foreseeable or personal events (like a minor illness, change of mind, or scheduling conflict) typically do not qualify.
Process for Cancellations and Refunds: To cancel, you should use the ExploreSiargao Platform’s cancellation function or contact our customer support. Refunds, when applicable, will be processed back to the original payment method. If you paid by credit/debit card, the refund will be credited to that card; if you paid by e-wallet, back to that wallet, and so on. Refund processing times can vary: we will initiate eligible refunds within 14 days, but your bank or payment provider may take 5-15 business days (or up to a billing cycle) to post the credit. If a refund does not appear after a reasonable time, contact us and your payment provider.
Please note that the final refund amount might be slightly different from what you paid due to third-party fees outside our control. For instance, currency exchange rate fluctuations between the time of booking and cancellation could cause a variance of a few percent, or the payment processor’s fees might not be returned for certain payment methods. ExploreSiargao does not profit from such differences; any minor shortfalls are due to those external factors and are generally the fault of your bank.
Changes and Booking Modifications: If you wish to make changes to a confirmed booking (such as changing dates, number of guests, or substituting a participant for an activity), you should message the Host through the Platform to request the change. The Host’s ability to accommodate changes will depend on availability and their policies. If a change is agreed (e.g., new dates or a service modification), there may be a price adjustment once approved by ExploreSiargao if needed. Any additional amounts due or refunds owed as a result of an approved booking modification will be handled through the Platform – often by canceling the original booking (with full refund) and creating a new booking, or through a supplemental charge. Both Guests and Hosts must agree to any changes. Until a change is confirmed, the original booking terms remain in effect.
By making a booking on ExploreSiargao, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the cancellation and refund terms above and that cancellation deadlines are strictly enforced. Travel insurance is recommended for Guests to cover unexpected cancellations beyond these terms.
ExploreSiargao is committed to giving back to the local community of Siargao and supporting sustainable tourism. As part of this initiative, we allocate a portion of the Guest service fees (up to 10%) for donations to local community projects, non-profit organizations, or environmental and cultural preservation efforts. These contributions are made by ExploreSiargao from our revenues as a way to share our success with the community.
On our Platform, we maintain a community contribution tracker (a progress bar or similar indicator) showing an approximate total of funds earmarked or donated to community causes through this program. This transparency feature is intended to keep users informed and engaged in our mission to support Siargao. Please note that the displayed figures are based on internal accounting and may not update in real-time; they are estimates and not guaranteed to be perfectly up-to-the-minute.
All donation decisions (including which projects or organizations to support, and when to disburse funds) are made at the sole discretion of ExploreSiargao. While we aim to contribute as advertised, this program is voluntary and subject to change. We do not imply that the Guest has any tax-deductible donation or charitable rights by using the Platform; essentially, the service fees you pay remain a fee for using the Platform, and any portion we donate is a unilateral initiative by ExploreSiargao. Guests and Hosts do not have the ability to direct these funds, nor can they claim them as charitable contributions for tax purposes.
By using our Platform, you acknowledge that our community donations are a goodwill initiative and not a contractual obligation. We will strive to fulfill our stated commitment, but we make no warranties or representations about specific outcomes or impacts of the donated funds. Furthermore, ExploreSiargao is not liable for how recipient organizations use the funds or any outcomes thereof. We choose reputable partners and projects, but once funds are donated, they are managed by those third parties.
This community contribution program underscores ExploreSiargao’s philosophy of responsible tourism. If you have suggestions for local causes or want more information, please contact us. However, participation in bookings and payment of service fees should be made on the basis of receiving the travel service you booked, not on expectation of contributing to a charity. The donation program may be modified or discontinued by ExploreSiargao at any time, though we will honor any stated commitments made up to that point.
Your privacy is important to us. Our Privacy Policy explains in detail how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal data when you use the ExploreSiargao Platform. By using the Platform or any services provided through ExploreSiargao, you consent to the collection and use of information as outlined in our Privacy Policy. This includes information you provide to us (such as during account registration or booking), information collected automatically (such as cookies or device data), and information we obtain from third parties (such as identity verification services).
Key points of our privacy practices include: the purposes for which we use your data (e.g., to facilitate bookings, process payments, provide customer support, send updates, and improve our services), the circumstances under which we may share data with third parties (e.g., with Hosts you book with, with service providers like payment processors, or if required by law), and your rights regarding your data (such as access, correction, or deletion where applicable). We also address data security measures and retention periods.
The Privacy Policy is considered part of these Terms of Use. We encourage you to read it carefully. If you have any questions about how your personal information is handled, you can contact us using the information provided in the Privacy Policy or Section 20 of these Terms.
By agreeing to these Terms of Use, you are also agreeing to the terms of the Privacy Policy. If you cannot agree to the Privacy Policy, do not use the Platform. We may update the Privacy Policy from time to time as well, and will notify users of significant changes as required.
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless ExploreSiargao Inc., its affiliates, and their officers, directors, employees, and agents (collectively, the "ExploreSiargao Parties") from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising out of or in connection with:
Your use of the ExploreSiargao Platform or services,
Your violation of these Terms of Use or any policies referenced herein,
Your interaction with any other user, booking of a service, or creation of a listing, including any injury, loss, or damage of any kind arising in connection with such interaction or booking, or
Your violation of any laws or rights of a third party.
In simple terms, if your actions (or inactions) result in a legal claim or financial loss for ExploreSiargao or other related parties, you will be responsible for the costs and damages. For example, if you are a Host and fail to honor a booking or violate a law which then causes a claim against us, or if you are a Guest and cause property damage that leads to a third-party claim against us, you agree to cover those losses and defend us in any legal proceedings. This indemnification obligation will survive the termination of your relationship with ExploreSiargao and the use of our services.
If we are faced with a claim that you are responsible for, we reserve the right to handle our legal defense as we see fit – even if you are indemnifying us. This could mean we choose our own legal counsel and decide whether to settle or contest a claim. In such cases:
We will notify you of the claim as soon as reasonably possible, so you are aware of your potential obligations.
You agree not to settle any such claim without our prior written consent, if the settlement would impose any obligation on an ExploreSiargao Party or would admit any fault on behalf of an ExploreSiargao Party. (You are free to settle claims that only affect you, but if it involves us, we need to approve.)
We may participate in the defense or settlement of any claim at our expense, and you agree to cooperate fully as reasonably required in the defense of any claim.
This section does not require you to indemnify the ExploreSiargao Parties for any gross negligence or willful misconduct on our part. But ordinary negligence on the user’s part, contractual breaches, or statutory violations are within the scope of your indemnification.
ExploreSiargao provides the Platform and services on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind to the fullest extent permitted by law. While we strive to provide a great user experience, we make no guarantee that the Platform will be uninterrupted, secure, or error-free, or that any content (including listings or reviews) will be accurate or complete. Use of the Platform is at your own risk.
Importantly, ExploreSiargao has no special relationship with or fiduciary duty to you regarding your use of the Platform. You acknowledge that ExploreSiargao does not control and has no duty to take action regarding: who accesses the Platform, what content you access via the Platform, what effect that content may have on you, or any actions you may take as a result of having been exposed to the content. You release us from all liability for you having acquired or not acquired content through the Platform.
Additionally, as stated in Section 1.2, ExploreSiargao is not acting as an agent for any user (Host or Guest) except to the limited extent of facilitating payments on behalf of Hosts. We do not endorse any particular Host or Guest or verify their representations beyond verification processes described. Hosts are independent contractors and not employees, partners, or agents of ExploreSiargao. We do not guarantee the quality, safety, truth, or legality of any listing, or the performance of any Host or Guest.
Any descriptions of services or locations on our Platform (including text, photos, and other materials provided by Hosts or ExploreSiargao) are intended for general informational purposes. ExploreSiargao does not warrant that descriptions of listings, experiences, or other content are accurate or free of errors. Hosts are responsible for listing content, and while we may moderate obvious issues, we cannot ensure every detail is correct. For example, a surf tour described as lasting 3 hours might actually be 2.5 hours; or a map pin for a rental location might be slightly off – we expect Hosts to be accurate, but slight discrepancies are not uncommon.
Any guidance ExploreSiargao provides as part of our services (such as travel tips, recommended activities, or content in our community forums or blog) is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement or warranty of any particular service or destination. You are responsible for verifying and using your judgment.
From time to time, ExploreSiargao or users might provide links to third-party websites or resources (like a tourism board site, or a partner’s site). We provide these links for convenience only. We do not endorse and are not responsible for third-party websites or resources, and your access and use of them is at your own risk.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, in no event will ExploreSiargao or the ExploreSiargao Parties (see Section 12.1) be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, exemplary, or consequential damages arising out of or in connection with your use of the Platform or these Terms. This includes, without limitation, loss of profits, loss of data, loss of goodwill, service interruption, computer damage, or system failure, or the cost of substitute products or services, or any damages for personal or bodily injury or emotional distress arising out of or in connection with (a) these Terms; (b) the use of or inability to use the Platform; (c) any communications or interactions with other users or other persons with whom you communicate or interact as a result of your use of the Platform; or (d) your listing or booking of any service via the Platform.
ExploreSiargao’s total liability arising out of or in connection with these Terms and your use of the Platform, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), breach of statutory duty or otherwise, shall not exceed the total service fees you have paid to ExploreSiargao in the twelve (12) month period prior to the event giving rise to the liability, or if you are a Host, the service fees we paid you in that period. If you have made no payments (or received no payouts) through the Platform in that timeframe, ExploreSiargao’s liability shall be limited to one hundred US dollars (USD $100) or the equivalent in Philippine Pesos.
Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for certain damages, so some of the above limitations may not apply to you. However, in all cases, ExploreSiargao’s liability is limited to the greatest extent permitted by law.
Except as expressly provided in these Terms, ExploreSiargao makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied. We disclaim any and all warranties of title, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement. For example, we do not guarantee that the services offered by Hosts will meet your expectations or requirements, or that any defects in the service will be corrected. We do not guarantee any results from your use of the Platform (such as any financial or travel outcomes).
ExploreSiargao does not warrant that the Platform will be free of viruses or other harmful components, or that any data you transmit through the Platform will be secure or not otherwise lost or damaged. You understand that any material or information downloaded or otherwise obtained through the use of the Platform is done at your own discretion and risk.
If you are dissatisfied with the Platform, your sole remedy (aside from any refund rights described in Section 10) is to discontinue use of the Platform.
Some regions might have consumer protection laws that grant you certain non-waivable rights or warranties. Nothing in these Terms is meant to override those, and if any part of these Terms is unenforceable under such laws, it shall be deemed adjusted to comply with the minimum requirements of the law.
The ExploreSiargao Platform may contain links to third-party websites or resources (for example, an external booking of transportation, insurance offers, or an affiliate’s site). These linked sites are provided solely as a convenience to our users. ExploreSiargao does not own or control these third-party sites and is not responsible for their content, policies, or practices. A link to a third-party site does not imply endorsement by ExploreSiargao of that site or any association with its operators.
When you click a third-party link and leave our Platform, you do so at your own risk. The terms and policies (including privacy and cookie policies) of the third-party site will apply to you, not ours. We recommend you review the terms and conditions of any third-party site you visit.
ExploreSiargao shall not be liable for any loss or damage that may arise from your use of third-party websites. This includes any transactions you undertake with third parties. For instance, if you purchase a separate travel insurance or book a service on another platform that was recommended or linked from ExploreSiargao, that is solely between you and the other provider.
Any interaction, correspondence, transaction or dealings you have with any third parties found on or through the ExploreSiargao Platform (including payment providers, social media services, or other websites) are solely between you and the third party. This includes interactions between Guests and Hosts outside our Platform’s formal booking flow (though we strongly encourage all communications to remain on-platform for safety and record-keeping).
You agree that, to the fullest extent permitted by law, ExploreSiargao is not responsible for any loss or damage of any sort incurred as a result of such dealings or as a result of the presence of such third parties on our Platform. ExploreSiargao is not obligated to become involved in any dispute that you may have with a third party (or another user), though we may choose to assist in facilitating a resolution at our discretion. In line with this, you release ExploreSiargao (and our officers, directors, employees, and agents) from claims, demands, and damages of every kind and nature, known and unknown, arising out of or in any way connected with such disputes.
For example, if a Host and Guest have a disagreement about whether a rule was broken or about damage to property, that is fundamentally a dispute between those parties. We may try to mediate via our Resolution Center, but by using our Platform, users acknowledge ExploreSiargao is not liable for the outcome of such disputes.
(California Residents) – You expressly waive California Civil Code §1542 (which says, in summary, you can’t waive unknown claims) in relation to the foregoing, meaning you waive any protections that would otherwise limit this release to include only those claims which you may know about.
These Terms of Use remain in effect so long as you continue to access or use the ExploreSiargao Platform or services. ExploreSiargao may, in its sole discretion, suspend or terminate your account or access to the Platform at any time, with or without notice, for any reason. This includes (but is not limited to) cases where:
You have breached these Terms or any other policy of ExploreSiargao,
We are unable to verify or authenticate any information you provide to us,
We believe your actions may cause financial loss or legal liability for you, our users, or ExploreSiargao, or
We decide to cease offering the services.
Termination can result in the deactivation or deletion of your account and the forfeiture of all associated data and content in your account (unless we are required to retain it by law). You may also lose access to any bookings or services associated with your account (without entitlement to refunds if termination is due to your breach). ExploreSiargao shall not be liable to you or any third-party for any termination of your account or access to the Platform, except to refund any pre-paid bookings that are upcoming (which we terminate without cause).
If your account is terminated for a breach of terms or improper conduct, ExploreSiargao reserves the right to cancel any future bookings you have without refund and/or to refuse you any future use of the Platform.
You may terminate this agreement at any time by canceling your ExploreSiargao account. You can do this by following the account termination instructions in your profile settings or by contacting us in writing to request account deletion. If you cancel your account as a Host, any confirmed future bookings will be canceled and Guests will receive a full refund. If you cancel your account as a Guest, any future bookings you have will be canceled and refunds will be determined by the Host’s cancellation policy (as if you canceled on that date).
Please note, even after your account is deleted, certain information may remain visible (for example, reviews you wrote might still appear, attributed to an anonymous user). Also, ExploreSiargao may retain certain data to the extent necessary for legal compliance or legitimate business purposes (see Privacy Policy for details on data retention).
Upon any termination of your account, whether by you or us, the following will occur:
Access Revocation: You will immediately lose access to the Platform as a logged-in user. You will not be able to retrieve any content or information you have stored in your account (so please back up any needed data separately).
Pending Transactions: Any pending or in-progress bookings at the time of termination may be canceled. We may help coordinate refunds or inform affected Guests/Hosts as appropriate.
Survival of Terms: All provisions of these Terms that by their nature should survive termination shall survive. This includes (but is not limited to) sections on indemnification (Section 12), disclaimers and limitations of liability (Section 13), dispute resolution and governing law (Sections 17 and 18), and any licenses you granted to ExploreSiargao in user content (Section 6 and 9). In essence, termination does not free you from any liability or obligation incurred prior to termination, and it does not waive any rights of ExploreSiargao in relation to any breach of these Terms by you.
If you ever wish to rejoin ExploreSiargao after terminating your account, you will need to contact us, as simply creating a new account might be flagged if we previously terminated you for cause. We reserve the right to refuse re-registration in such cases.
As a user of ExploreSiargao, you are responsible for ensuring that you meet any legal requirements for your travel or activities. For Guests, this means verifying what is required to enter and stay in the Philippines or participate in an activity. Check your visa and passport requirements well in advance of travel. Different nationalities have different entry rules; it’s your duty to confirm whether you need a visa, how long you can stay, and that your passport will be valid for the required duration. Requirements can change, so even if you have been to the Philippines before, double-check the current rules (e.g., visa on arrival eligibility, onward ticket requirements, etc.).
We also advise ensuring you meet any health requirements. For example, are there any vaccinations needed or recommended? During pandemic times, are there quarantine or testing rules? While ExploreSiargao may provide general guidance or links to resources, we do not guarantee their completeness. Consult official government sources or consulates for up-to-date information. ExploreSiargao will not be liable if you are denied entry or participation because you failed to obtain necessary documents or comply with regulations.
Some Hosts (especially for certain activities or rentals) may require you to provide documentation before or at the time of service. This could include showing a valid government-issued ID to verify your identity, a driver’s license if you rented a vehicle, a diving certification if you booked a scuba experience, or signing a waiver of liability for an adventure activity. Hosts should inform you of these requirements in the listing or prior to the start of the service. As a Guest, you agree to comply with any such reasonable documentation requests or local regulations that apply. If you fail to produce required documentation, the Host may cancel the service and it may be treated as a last-minute cancellation on your part.
Insurance Advice: ExploreSiargao strongly recommends that Guests obtain appropriate travel insurance for your trip. Travel insurance can cover things like trip cancellations, medical expenses, personal injury, accidents, or lost/stolen belongings during travel. Given that refunds may not be available for last-minute cancellations (see Section 10.10), insurance is your safeguard for unforeseen events such as illness, extreme weather, or other disruptions. Ensure that any policy you purchase covers the activities you plan to undertake (for example, some policies might exclude high-adventure sports or riding motorbikes). For Hosts, it’s advisable to have appropriate liability insurance or property insurance as needed; while ExploreSiargao may offer some protections, the primary risk rests with you as the service provider.
Release of Liability for Activities: Many activities (surfing, diving, hiking, etc.) carry inherent risks. By booking such activities through ExploreSiargao, you acknowledge these risks. While Hosts should maintain a safe environment and provide guidance, you as a participant assume responsibility for acting prudently and following all instructions and safety guidelines. ExploreSiargao is not liable for injuries or losses that occur during activities or stays, except as specified by law or a particular program we explicitly offer. Always prioritize your safety and assess your own condition and capabilities before participating.
If you have any questions about legal or health requirements or need clarification on any Host’s pre-requisites for service, please reach out in advance. It’s better to address these details before you travel or before your cancellation window closes.
ExploreSiargao is committed to user satisfaction and to fostering a harmonious community. If you have a dispute, complaint, or concern arising out of your use of the Platform or a booking (whether it’s with another user or with ExploreSiargao itself), we encourage you to first seek an amicable resolution by contacting our customer support. Many issues can be resolved quickly through open communication. For disputes between Guests and Hosts (for example, regarding property or rental condition, rule violations, or refund requests), our team can facilitate a dialogue and suggest fair solutions.
By agreeing to these Terms, you agree that before taking any formal legal action, you will give us an opportunity to resolve your problem or dispute. This entails (a) notifying ExploreSiargao of the dispute (by sending an email to our support or the contact provided in Section 20, with "Dispute" in the subject line and a brief description of the issue) and (b) providing us a reasonable period to respond and attempt to resolve the matter. Please include any relevant information, booking references, correspondence, or evidence relating to the dispute when you contact us. Our team will respond as soon as possible, typically within 5 business days, and will work with you in good faith to address your concerns.
If the dispute cannot be resolved through our customer support team, we may suggest (where feasible) a neutral mediation process. Mediation is an informal and confidential process where a neutral third-party mediator helps the disputing parties find a mutually acceptable solution. Mediation is not binding unless an agreement is reached. It can often save time and expense compared to litigation. If both parties agree, we can help coordinate a mediation session (which might be conducted by phone or online given the distances involved). The costs of mediation, if any, may be split or as agreed during that process.
While we do not require arbitration in all cases, we similarly aim to solve issues without court whenever possible. By using ExploreSiargao, you agree to engage in this good-faith process of negotiation or mediation before pursuing other avenues.
(Note: The following arbitration clause applies except where prohibited by law. If you are a consumer in a jurisdiction that does not allow mandatory arbitration of certain disputes, this section may not apply to you.)
If a dispute arises between you and ExploreSiargao that cannot be resolved informally or through mediation as described above, either party may elect to resolve the claim by binding arbitration, to the extent permitted by law. Arbitration is an out-of-court process where a neutral arbitrator (rather than a judge or jury) decides the dispute. You and ExploreSiargao agree to waive the right to a trial by jury or to participate in a class action for most disputes arising under these Terms or your use of the Platform. Only individual claims are allowed in arbitration (no class actions or consolidation of cases). This arbitration agreement will survive termination of these Terms.
Arbitration Process: To initiate arbitration, the complaining party must send a written notice to the other party describing the claim and requesting arbitration. Arbitration will be conducted by a reputable arbitration organization in Davao, Philippines (unless we mutually agree on an alternative forum), and will follow that organization’s rules for consumer arbitration or small claims if applicable. Costs of arbitration will be governed by the arbitrator’s rules; however, each party will generally pay its own filing and legal fees, unless the arbitrator finds that a claim was frivolous or brought in bad faith (in which case the arbitrator can award fees).
Exceptions: Either party may choose to bring an individual claim in small claims court instead of arbitration if the claim qualifies. Also, this arbitration clause does not prevent either party from seeking an injunction or other equitable relief in a court of competent jurisdiction to prevent actual or threatened infringement, misappropriation, or violation of a party’s copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, patents, or other intellectual property rights.
Important: If you do not wish to be bound by the arbitration provision, you must notify us in writing within 30 days of first accepting these Terms, stating that you opt out of arbitration. Include your name and account info. Opting out will not affect any other provisions of these Terms (such as still requiring amicable resolution first).
For any disputes that are not subject to arbitration (or if a court of competent jurisdiction finds the arbitration clause unenforceable), you and ExploreSiargao agree that the laws of the Republic of the Philippines will govern any disputes arising out of or relating to these Terms or the use of the Platform, without regard to conflict of law principles. Specifically, Philippine law will apply to interpret all rights and obligations under this agreement.
You further agree to submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Davao, Philippines, for the resolution of any lawsuit or court proceeding permitted under these Terms. "Non-exclusive jurisdiction" means that while Philippine courts have authority, if you are a consumer resident in another country, you may also have the right to bring an action in your local courts under applicable consumer protection laws (this clause does not limit any such rights). However, by entering this agreement, you acknowledge that Philippine courts have jurisdiction and are a proper forum for any litigation, to the extent permissible.
If you are accessing or using the Platform from outside the Philippines, you do so at your own initiative and are responsible for compliance with local laws if and to the extent they apply. We make no representation that the Platform is available or appropriate in every jurisdiction.
If any provision of these Terms of Use is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court or arbitrator of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be modified or severed to the minimum extent necessary to make it enforceable, and the remaining provisions of these Terms will continue in full force and effect. In other words, the invalid part will be removed or adjusted, but everything else stays binding. For example, if the arbitration prohibition of class actions is deemed unlawful, the rest of the arbitration agreement might still be enforced for individual claims.
You may not assign, transfer, or delegate any rights or obligations under these Terms of Use without ExploreSiargao’s prior written consent. Any attempt to do so without consent will be null and void. ExploreSiargao, on the other hand, may freely assign or transfer these Terms (in whole or in part) as part of a corporate reorganization, merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, or by operation of law or otherwise, without notice to you. For example, if ExploreSiargao is acquired by another company, your agreement with us (these Terms) may be assigned to that new company.
These Terms shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their permitted successors and assigns. There are no third-party beneficiaries to this agreement, except as explicitly provided (for example, the indemnified parties in Section 12).
These Terms of Use are written in English, which is the controlling language for all purposes. Any translation of these Terms (if provided) is for reference only. In the event of any discrepancy or conflict between the English version and a translated version, the English version shall prevail. All disputes, notices, and communications will be in English, unless otherwise required by law.
Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of future enforcement of that right or provision. Likewise, the waiver of any such right or provision will be effective only if in writing and signed by a duly authorized representative of ExploreSiargao. For example, if you breach these Terms and we do not immediately take action, we still retain the right to enforce that provision or take action for that breach (or a subsequent breach) at a later date.
These Terms of Use, together with any supplemental policies or documents expressly referenced herein (such as the Privacy Policy, Host-specific terms, or additional guidelines on the Platform), constitute the entire agreement between you and ExploreSiargao regarding your use of the Platform and supersede any prior oral or written understandings or agreements between us. You acknowledge that you have not relied on any representation, warranty, or statement not expressly set out in these Terms in deciding to agree to them.
If there is any conflict between these Terms and any other terms posted on the Platform (for example, between this and a policy page), these Terms shall control, unless the other terms explicitly state that they override these Terms in certain aspects.
If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback about these Terms of Use or any other policies, or if you need to report any violations or issues, please feel free to contact ExploreSiargao:
ExploreSiargao Inc. Email: [email protected]
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Last updated: April 26, 2025.