Ayala Land Hospitality to reopen Lagen Island Resort in Palawan after major sustainability-led transformation

Philippine property and hospitality developer Ayala Land Hospitality is set to reopen Lagen Island Resort in Palawan in January 2026 following a comprehensive transformation that repositions the property as a luxury eco-retreat rooted in Filipino craftsmanship, indigenous cultural heritage and environmental sustainability.

The Daily Tribune reports that the reimagined resort will feature 42 accommodations comprising Forest Rooms and Water Villas set amid forests, limestone cliffs and the waters of Bacuit Bay, with the redesign integrating contemporary architecture alongside traditional Filipino design elements throughout the property.

The project was developed in collaboration with international design practices WATG, Wimberly Interiors Studio and Henning Larsen, alongside Ayala Land Hospitality's own creative team. Artisans from across the Philippines contributed to the interior fit-out, including Artisano Kabalan of Olongapo, wood carvers from Cavite-based Creaete Industrial Corp., and master weavers including Wilson Limon, Jenny Mann, T'boli weavers and the Marabatuan Indigenous People Weavers Association.

Traditional weaving patterns, handcrafted woodwork and locally made ceramics have been incorporated throughout the property, embedding Filipino material culture into the design at a level of detail intended to distinguish the resort from internationally homogenous luxury hospitality offerings.

"The new era of Lagen is designed to be rooted in authenticity," said Paloma Urquijo Zobel de Ayala, Creative Director of Ayala Land Hospitality. "For over two decades, Ayala Land Hospitality has championed conservation and responsible development in Palawan. With Lagen's transformation, the brand redefines Filipino hospitality by bringing together heritage, artistry, and nature in one destination."

The upgraded resort will also include a dive centre, a Marine and Biodiversity Conservation Centre, and a two-level wellness facility incorporating a spa garden, yoga studio, healing pool and private treatment rooms, broadening the property's appeal across both leisure and wellness tourism segments.

Reservations for the redesigned Lagen Island Resort are open ahead of the January 2026 reopening date, with the property positioned to capitalise on growing international demand for culturally grounded, sustainability-led luxury travel experiences in Southeast Asia.

Discover more about Lagen Island Resort's transformation in the full coverage.