Angela Lopez, a passionate advocate for eco-conscious living, has made waves in the Philippines with her innovative project, Diwa Siargao, a sustainable eco-house and retreat found in the tropical paradise of Siargao.
Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture, Siargao is cultivating a culture of sustainability, fueled by advocates like Lopez.
Diwa Siargao is an eco-house that provides a holistic space designed to promote mindful living, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation. By blending modern eco-architecture with traditional Filipino design, Lopez has created a sanctuary that inspires visitors to embrace a greener lifestyle.
Diwa, which means “spirit” or “essence” in Filipino, embodies the core philosophy of the project—reconnecting with nature while fostering sustainability.
Siargao has long been a magnet for travelers seeking adventure, but Lopez’s project adds a new dimension to the island’s appeal: responsible tourism.
“Diwa began as a personal desire to slow down and reconnect with nature. After eight years in the corporate world, I felt the need for a change. What started as an escape became a mission to build a space rooted in simplicity, sustainability, and community. In 2019, after transformative trips to Siargao with my best friend and now business partner, Chrissie Torres-Jamlang, we took the leap,” shared Lopez.
Back in the city, weekend surf trips were her escape—moments by the sea that brought joy and peace. That love for the ocean led her to build a nature-rooted business. Now based in Siargao, she remains inspired by its beauty and committed to protecting it.
Diwa is proudly women-led, built as both a business and a workplace grounded in care, respect, and growth. Empowering local women has uplifted families and strengthened the community—a spirit reflected in every team member.
Rooted in integrity and kindness, Diwa prioritizes well-being alongside financial stability, redefining leadership in hospitality. At its heart, it’s about creating space for calm, connection, and conscious living.
Sustainability is central to Diwa’s way of living and hosting. They’ve eliminated single-use plastics, compost organic waste, use solar lighting, and source local products—from handcrafted toiletries to seasonal breakfast ingredients—supporting both the environment and community.
Building Diwa wasn’t easy. Remote island life brought supply issues and power outages, while the pandemic and typhoon pushed them further. But those setbacks brought clarity. “They made us ask what kind of space we really wanted to build,” said Lopez. “Stripped to the essentials, we rebuilt with intention.”
At Diwa, sustainability is both a practice and a promise. From solar-kissed mornings to compost-fed gardens, every detail reflects a deeper commitment to harmony with nature. Here, the rhythm of the island isn’t just observed; it’s honored.
