beneath beyond
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Beach Resort & Marine Tourism Project Development
"I prioritize resourcefulness over reckless spending and adapt to the challenges posed by each environment.
Typhoons, tight budgets, shifting politics, and legal disputes are all realities in this field.
However, I see these not as setbacks, but as opportunities for creativity, diplomacy, and precision.
Each project demonstrates hands-on problem-solving, local collaboration, and a profound respect for both the community and the environment. This results in designs that are resilient, relevant, and unforgettable."
Diver's Dream Restaurant — Fine Dining with a View
Baywalk, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
January 2013 to December 2015
This two-story steel and glass structure elegantly overlooks the waterfront.
It was originally designed as a gateway for the Diver's Dream Tubbataha Scuba Diving liveaboard.
I managed the land acquisition and transformed the initial unappealing design into a modern architectural masterpiece.
I supervised the construction, created 3D mockups, and developed a state-of-the-art kitchen system with a tablet-based digital ordering process—an innovative feature for both the time and the region.
Despite facing challenges such as the withdrawal of the original purpose, procurement issues, and the need to train a new team, the final result was a stunning dining experience that became a landmark on the Baywalk.
Manta Scuba Diving — Dive Shop + Coffee Bar
San Carlos, Bacungan, Palawan
February 2018 to November 2020
I established an eco-tourism hub for divers and locals in an environmentally protected river-bay area.
My vision materialized into a timber-framed dive shop and coffee bar situated on a concrete dock, compliant with the standards set by the NGO, LGU, and DENR.
I designed every detail, secured the necessary permits, and managed the carpentry and mechanical work. Working with a limited budget, I sourced materials locally and adapted to challenges, including building a floating pier to accommodate tidal flow and height.
The entire project was a collaborative effort among three people. The result was a marine adventure starting point and social hub that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings.
Diver's Dream — Beach Resort Development
*The age of these photographs and the deterioration of the original hard drive have impacted the quality of this image gallery. Although AI restoration efforts were made, some limitations in image quality still persist.
Doljo Beach, Panglao, Bohol
January 2007 to August 2012
What began as a modest dive shop on a rented beachfront in Libaong evolved into a major resort development. I established a multinational corporation with SEC-registered shareholders and managed all necessary permits for a beachfront dive and resort business.
Through complex land negotiations, I expanded the property to include a 10,000-square-meter luxury resort featuring multi-story buildings, a 5-meter deep training pool, and a 200-meter pier extending to the coral drop-off. I founded architectural and construction firms, hiring licensed professionals while overseeing design, procurement, and government compliance.
At peak construction, I led a team of over 100 employees, managing all aspects of development, including human resources, dive expeditions, guest accommodations, and restaurant services. After the passing of my business partner, we operated the resort until resolving corporate share matters and completed the sale to a major corporation in 2012.
Alon Travellers Lodge — Boutique Hotel Conversion
Baywalk, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
January 2016 to December 2017
Given the exceptional location, I envisioned transforming the former restaurant into a boutique lodge with a 24-hour minimart.
Working within tight budget constraints, I developed architectural plans and led a small team of four in the complete redesign and remodeling of the space. This project involved constructing interior walls, redesigning plumbing and electrical systems, and converting the existing structure to include three suites.
I also managed all necessary permits and addressed logistical challenges throughout the process. Ultimately, I successfully guided the transformation from an empty shell to a vibrant, income-generating business, demonstrating that thoughtful design and hands-on management can achieve remarkable results even on a limited budget.
Catamaran Liveaboard & Yacht Renovations
I led the design and construction of a liveaboard diving catamaran for extended expeditions in remote waters. This project included everything from initial design and technical planning to overseeing the build, incorporating dive-focused features like gear-up seating, tank racks, and onboard compressors for efficient refills. I also resolved complex challenges, including a legal dispute.
Additionally, I undertook various yacht and speedboat renovations, transforming vessels to meet modern performance and lifestyle needs. My work involved structural repairs, hull fairing, high-grade paint finishes, and engine overhauls. I installed solar power arrays, hydraulic systems, and advanced electronics. For diving capabilities, I created specialized areas such as gear-up benches and wet storage, integrating them seamlessly into the vessel’s systems. My efforts combined design vision with craftsmanship to deliver reliable yachts that reflected their owners’ aspirations.