In Siargao, the magic lives in the perfect Cloud 9 barrels, the whispering palm forests, and the pulse of its people. It grows from big, bold ideas shaped by a simple love for the island. It thrives in the spirit of bayanihan (community unity) that turns dreams into reality.
From this vibrant soil, a new seed has sprouted: Ubani Siargao, the passion project of island resident Charmaine Tanteras. Ubani represents the Siargao spirit of starting with an idea, adding heart, and building something beautiful with the community.
Tanteras, like so many who are called to Siargao, saw more than a paradise; she saw a home with untapped potential and a community rich with talent. Ubani began not in a boardroom but in the quiet moments after a surf, during conversations with local artisans, and with the realization that the island’s soul could be expressed through something tangible.
“Ubani started when I kept posting about my life in Siargao. And tourists have been inquiring about it until I became a ‘concierge’ of their needs. So Ubani initially doesn’t have packages because our foundation was service-based on ‘requests.’ Siargao has so much more to offer than the usual tourist spots,” Tanteras shared.
“I wanted to create experiences that were personal, meaningful, and away from the crowds. Most tours on the island felt generic, so I focused on curated moments like romantic beach dinners, underrated island hopping, and intimate retreats that help people see the real Siargao. Ubani fills the gap between mainstream tourism and deeper, more authentic experiences,” she added.
Ubani’s approach to tourism is built on a foundation of deep respect for Siargao—designing experiences that bypass overcrowded spots, partnering directly with local communities, and maintaining a strict low-impact policy, including a ban on single-use plastics and a commitment to local suppliers. For them, sustainability is not a marketing trend but a genuine commitment to protecting the island they call home.
“Ubani works closely with local guides, boatmen, cooks, farmers, and artisans. Many of our retreats highlight Filipino culture, like weaving, pottery, and farm visits, which directly support local livelihoods. We also prioritize hiring locals and collaborating with small community businesses. Our goal is for tourism to uplift the community, not overwhelm it,” Tanteras adds.
Siargao has become a haven for digital nomads seeking reliable connectivity, comfort, and community. Ubani supports this with fast Wi-Fi, quiet workspaces, and access to island activities, workshops, and wellness events. The setup helps remote professionals find balance, build routine, and connect with a like-minded tribe in the rhythm of Siargao life.
“People choose Ubani because we focus on personalized and crowd-free experiences. We’re known for our intimate setups, rare island routes, and retreats that highlight culture, wellness, and connection. Everything we offer is curated and intentional. We don’t try to be the biggest; we just aim to be the most meaningful and unforgettable,” Tanteras continues.
For Tanteras, the greatest reward comes from real moments of connection—whether it’s a couple getting engaged during a curated experience or a solo traveler finding clarity and community. The journey has brought challenges, especially with the fast changes in Siargao’s tourism scene, but each one has pushed growth and new ideas.
This is Tanteras’s story and an invitation—to see a homegrown brand grow, to appreciate the artistry in every woven thread, and to join a community that lifts its own.
