The reimagined Lagen: Genesis in motion
The journey felt surreptitiously surreal: the calming silence, towering limestone cliffs, immaculate white sand, and vast sky made it seem as though pure imagination had come alive.
Paradise rules, no question. In a distance, huge cliffs rise, emerald waters form gentle waves, the crisp wind kisses your face, and it makes the whole view feel almost unreal. As you gaze upward, birds glide so calmly across brilliant blue skies before resting on swaying trees.
Today, not just after a renovation but a rebirth, the newly reimagined Lagen Island Resort features 42 impressive accommodations in total, reduced from the previous 51 keys to create a more spacious, low-density luxury experience.
Our jovial group of media guests were welcomed at The Boathouse, inspired by the traditional Filipino Paraw sailboat and designed with hand-carved wood and ceramic beadwork crafted by local artisans.
The artistic vision behind the resort and the entire reimagined concept is led by the indefatigable and charming Paloma Urquijo Zobel de Ayala, creative director of Ayala Land Hospitality.
The reimagined Lagen aims to be more than a luxury resort—it is designed as a living showcase of Filipino culture, craftsmanship, and environmental stewardship, offering guests an intimate connection with Palawan’s extraordinary natural beauty.
Our group even learned the craft of traditional weaving and even picked up the basics of incense making. These fun-filled sessions impacted on me a deeper respect for local culture and the kind of hands-on craftsmanship that takes immense patience.
Here, adventure is never far away, one will enjoy kayaking across the calm turquoise while others can engage in swimming in that warm sea and snorkeling among schools of lively tropical fish. The allure of Lagen is complemented by the world’s most beautiful Entalula beach on Entalula Island. Like precious blue sapphires in liquid gold, Entalula is pure imagination come alive.
One of the highlights of my stay was indulging in their ESPA therapies. The signature Inner Calm Massage felt more than a spa session. It was a slow journey toward complete rejuvenation.
Under Samuel Boursier, my Breathworks teacher, I breathed deeply to the rhythm of soothing melodies. I felt my mind gradually surrender its constant chatter. Emotions surfaced without warning, followed by an unexpected sense of release. More than relaxation, it was an inward journey that reminded me how much wisdom the body holds when we simply allow it to breathe.
My water villa became my own little oasis. Each sunrise painted the sky with fresh new colors, then evenings came with calm reflection from the villa’s terrace, as if nature was playing the same timeless melody again and again.
Gastronomic meals at Lagen were similarly memorable too. The multi-talented culinary team whipped up delectable cuisine that turned every meal into a feast of flavors. Freshly local seafood and ingredients, along with meat and produce turned into beautifully plated dishes. Expertly curated menu shows the rich Filipino cuisine and delightfully pairs it with international favorites.
The reimagined Lagen is more than a luxury retreat; it is a celebration of Philippine hospitality.
To quench my adventurous soul, I dared to trek to see more dramatic views. As I made my way down the mountain, I glimpsed the omniscient orange sunset, which seemed to salute what I felt inside.
From my picturesque terrace, I imagined paradise before mankind left its mark. As stewards of creation, we have found more than a refuge here. This is genesis in motion—a place where beauty, heritage, and sustainability move forward together.
Here we have found our future.
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For inquiries and reservations, please visit www.elnidoresorts.com. Email the author at miladay.star@gmail.com.
