However, in 1924, the existing Aciga River swelled its bank, destroying all properties, plants and animals and forcing the inhabitants of Santiago, Cabadbaran to transfer to barrio Jagupit. In 1936, the same river wrought havoc to the barrio and the barrio folk again decided to transfer to Sitio Paypay at the foot of the hill. Long before the migration the Manobos and the Mamanwas inhabited the place. But then the national government constructed a highway cutting through Sitio Paypay, the influx of people to the place began.

In 1936, through a bill in Congress sponsored by the late Congressman Marcos Calo, Paypay was changed into Santiago in honor of Saint Santiago.

In the latter part of 1964, the barrio officials of Barrio Santiago indicated their desire to become a municipality. Finally, in 1969, a bill sponsored by Ex-Congressman Jose C. Aquino and approved by the Sixth congress of the Republic, gave birth to Republic Act 5242, which created the new municipality of Santiago.

Santiago lies on the northeastern part of Agusan del Norte. Its boundaries are Jabonga to the north; Tubay and Cabadbaran to the south; Surigao del Sur to the east. It is 47 kms. from Butuan City.

Santiago's municipal flower is African Daisy; lanzones as its municipal fruit; Nara as its municipal tree; kalaw as its municipal bird; and golden yellow as its municipal color.

Source: Agusan del Norte Brochure
Produced by the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte
in cooperation with Community Affairs Public Assistance and Information Office
and the Provincial Planning and Development Office.