In the heart of Siargao’s laid-back paradise, two dynamic entrepreneurs are rewriting the island’s business playbook: Charles Tiu and Angela Lopez. More than just business owners, they’re community builders, blending savvy entrepreneurship with a deep love for Siargao’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.
From beachfront hospitality ventures to eco-conscious initiatives, this power duo has become synonymous with innovative and sustainable growth on the island.
In this feature, we’ll dive into their inspiring journey—how they’re turning challenges into opportunities, fostering local talent, and proving that success in Siargao isn’t just about profit but also passion and purpose. Welcome to the future of island business, Tiu and Lopez style.
The couple started Katig Siargao, a beachfront hotel that provides guests with a luxurious stay without breaking the bank. Angela also has Diwa Siargao, an eco-house that offers all the comforts of home in a minimalist dwelling.
Angela’s first visit to Siargao was in 2016. She was drawn by the island’s raw beauty and slower pace of life.
“Siargao has this way of making you feel at home, and we wanted to extend that feeling to travelers. This feeling is the inspiration behind our business, ‘Diwa,’ a Tagalog word that means soul, essence, and spirit. We saw an opportunity to create something special that reflects the essence of island living: warm, welcoming, and connected to nature,” recalls Angela.
This project is how her journey as an entrepreneur in Siargao began. When Charles, her fiancé, eventually moved to the island with her, one business idea led to another.
“I moved to the island during the height of the pandemic. I was sick of Manila traffic and expensive experiences; it almost felt like I had to pay to breathe. Luckily, I reconnected with Angela, who was already living in Siargao,” said Charles.
“This is when we started dating. She was in Manila for regular medical checkups, and we decided there was no better time to move. With limited and expensive flights, I suggested that we drive my car down since I’d wanted to move to Siargao since I bought my first property there in 2018. So I packed all my things into my car with Angela and my best dog buddy, Doobie, and we made the four-day-long land trip down to Siargao. Katig Siargao was born out of necessities on the island,” he carried on.
Beneath the swaying coconut palms of Siargao lies a rhythm that calls to surfers across the globe—the thunderous roar of Cloud 9, the island’s crown jewel and one of the planet’s most legendary reef breaks.
Charles continues, “One of my favorite unique experiences that Katig offers is surfing at high tide; the boat can pick you up right at the beachfront! Local culture is the heart of Katig; it is evident in our local staff and the care that they put into every guest who books with us—The Katig Way.”
Siargao is definitely at the top of the list for many travelers, not only because of surfing and nature but because of the people as well. When we think of tourism, we often picture stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and luxurious resorts.
But behind every memorable travel experience lies an often-overlooked pillar of the industry: the local community. Residents are not just passive bystanders—they are storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and the driving force that shapes a destination’s identity.
“The best part about living and running a business here isn’t just the work—it’s the people. The connections we’ve built with our staff, the return guests who feel more like old friends, and the sense of belonging that comes from being surrounded by a community that shares the same values,” shared Angela.
Running Katig and Diwa in Siargao hasn’t been easy, but for Angela and Charles, every sunrise over the island makes it worth it. Through hard work and a shared passion for hospitality, they’ve turned their dream into reality—one happy guest at a time. As the waves continue to kiss the shore, their little paradise thrives, proving that love and dedication can build something beautiful together.