By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur —Mayor Grace Carmel Paredes-Bravo of this town has issued a stern warning to homestay owners and incoming guests to avoid dealing with unauthorized brokers, who she says have been inflating accommodation rates ahead of the Palarong Pambansa 2026.
In an advisory, Bravo urged homestay owners to list their properties directly with the Provincial Tourism Officeor the Municipal Tourism Office to avoid third-party brokers who often manipulate prices. She stressed, “To ensure fair pricing and official representation, please list your property directly. There is no need to utilize brokers or middlemen.”
The warning comes in response to complaints over rising accommodation prices in San Francisco, with some properties reportedly charging rates comparable to “five-star hotels in Boracay.” One complainant, Renz Em NL, revealed they had booked a homestay for P45,000 for eight days and seven nights, which they said was the cheapest option available.
“We are aware of this issue,” Bravo said, noting that a homeowner had recently admitted to involving brokers in their business dealings but refused to disclose their identity.
In support of the mayor’s efforts, Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr. confirmed that an investigation is now underway into the practices of unauthorized brokers. “We will not tolerate those who will take advantage of the event,” Cane said in an interview with local media.
“We believe unscrupulous brokers are sabotaging the Palarong Pambansa 2026, trying to embarrass the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur,”the governor pointed out.
Ian Louie Bajade, a San Francisco resident, shared his thoughts on the matter through social media: “I’ve been seeing some posts lately about the unreasonable room rates being imposed by some locals for the Palarong Pambansa. They’re asking for prices far higher than what hotels and Airbnbs charge in big cities.
Bajade added the event is for sports and grassroots development, not business. “Yet, greed is hijacking its purpose, turning what should be a long-term gain into something transient and momentary. This made me reflect on our political culture – we demand transparency and accountability from the government, but when given the chance, we exploit the situation. If we keep doing this, what separates us from the corrupt officials we condemn?”
The mayor also reminded prospective guests not to transact with individuals or establishments that do not possess a valid permit from the local government unit (LGU). She emphasized that those seeking permits for homestays must first comply with the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) to meet essential standards, including sanitation, fire safety, and health safety.
Homestay properties must meet a set of minimum requirements, including separate guest rooms, clean beds and linens, safe electricity and ventilation, sanitary facilities, and continuous water supply. Any establishment unable to meet these standards should not be engaged in any transactions.
Bravo further urged guests to avoid brokers who had refused to attend the mandatory training and meetings conducted by the Provincial Tourism Office. “Please do not negotiate or transact with them,” she warned.
For inquiries about accommodations in San Francisco, the Municipal Tourism Office can be contacted at 0960-378-4682.
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