Siago Beach Resort in Siargao grew from the vision and passion of its owners, Maite Ortoll-Garcia and Kris Garcia. This boutique resort has become a beloved retreat for guests seeking an authentic island experience in one of the Philippines’ most breathtaking destinations.
The name ‘Siago’ holds a special meaning. It is a heartfelt blend of ‘Sia’ and ‘Ago,’ the names of the owners’ two children. Combining these names not only reflects the brand’s personal roots but also symbolizes the love and inspiration drawn from family.
Maite, an entrepreneur with a deep love for travel and hospitality, and Kris, a Filipino-American with a background in business and sustainability, first fell in love with Siargao’s raw beauty and vibrant culture. Their shared dream of creating a sanctuary that harmonizes with nature led them to establish Siago, a haven that reflects their commitment to eco-conscious luxury.
Juggling business and family in San Francisco, the couple never expected a getaway to Mexico would lead to their most cherished venture.
“During a brief trip to Tulum, Mexico, Kris and I fell in love with the community’s vibe. At that time, Tulum resembled Siargao, being a tight-knit community that prioritized environmental preservation. This inspired us deeply, and we couldn’t shake the thoughts of Tulum from our minds,” Maite recounted.
“When our second child, Sia, was born, we realized it was time to move closer to family in the Philippines. Kris had a list of islands he wanted to explore, knowing that starting a business by the beach was essential for us. His first stop was Siargao. From the moment he arrived, he knew right away that it was the place for us—he didn’t even bother going elsewhere after. It was also a bonus that we had friends who had already settled on the island. Siargao just felt like home,” she carried on.
Siago opened in February 2021. At the beginning, they served only coffee and croissants to generate some income. Getting support from the community helped during those challenging times. At this time, they started to offer accommodations to travelers.
What started as a modest collection of rooms evolved over time, with the launch of a brunch restaurant adding a new dimension. Today, Siago stands as an intimate boutique resort, offering ten stylish rooms and a beloved culinary space.
“Siago was built as an extension of our family. We wanted everyone to find their ‘home away from home with us.’ That’s why we’ve been intentional about making sure our spaces and activities cater to guests of all age groups—from babies to senior citizens. Although we get a lot of families staying with us, we are also quite popular with honeymooners and couples,” Maite added.
Sustainability is woven into Siago’s DNA. Their architecture, furnishings, landscaping, and even kitchen practices are carefully curated to protect the planet without compromising on luxury. The property runs on 90 percent solar power when the sun cooperates, because why burn fossil fuels when you can harness all that free tropical sunshine?
Their rooms were designed to work smarter, not harder, with massive windows, sliding doors, and soaring ceilings that let the ocean breeze do the AC’s job. You’ll only need lights after dark, even those energy-sipping LEDs.
Water also gets the VIP treatment here. They catch every drop of rain to feed their thriving endemic plants and herb garden—the same plants that keep their grounds naturally cool and supply ingredients for the kitchen and bar.
Even the toiletries are in on the game. They provide tooth tabs instead of toothpaste, so there is no exception to their no single-use plastic policy. Siago’s shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and soap are all reef-safe and handmade by Maite’s sister for the resort.
Their employees are proudly homegrown. Most staff members are from Siargao, offering genuine hospitality while strengthening the local economy. Maite and Kris also extend this same philosophy to their suppliers, prioritizing nearby farms, fishermen, and businesses to keep their footprint as local as their love for the island.
For those seeking paradise with a purpose, Siago Beach Resort and its visionary owners’ passion deliver an unforgettable escape.
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