beneath beyond
Scuba Diving, Dive Center, Liveaboard & Resort Development Consulting
From Ocean Depths to Architectural Heights
"What distinguishes my approach is not only the vision but also the method of turning that vision into reality. 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."
Scroll down now to discover the compelling stories behind these builds!
Diver's Dream Restaurant — Fine Dining with a View
Baywalk, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines
January 2013 to December 2015
This two-story steel and glass structure elegantly overlooks the waterfront and enhances the Diver's Dream brand, originally designed as a gateway for the Tubbataha Scuba Diving liveaboard.
I managed land acquisition and redesigned the initial unappealing design into a modern architectural style. I oversaw construction, created 3D mockups, and developed a state-of-the-art kitchen system with a tablet-based digital ordering process—an innovative feature for the area.
Despite challenges like 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, Philippines
February 2018 to November 2020
I established an eco-tourism hub for divers and locals in an environmentally protected river-bay area.
My vision became a timber-framed dive shop and coffee bar on a concrete dock, compliant with NGO, LGU, and DENR standards.
I designed every detail, secured permits, and handled carpentry and mechanical work. Working with a limited budget, I sourced materials locally and adapted to challenges.
The result was a marine adventure start 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 affected the quality of this image gallery. Although AI restoration efforts were undertaken, some limitations in image quality still remain.
Doljo Beach, Panglao, Bohol, Philippines — January 2007 to August 2012
What began as a modest dive shop on a rented beachfront in Libaong, on the opposite side of Panglao Island, evolved into one of the most ambitious independent resort developments in the area. I built this operation from the ground up, establishing a multinational corporation with SEC-registered shareholders and managing the full spectrum of permits required for a beachfront dive and resort business.
Through complex land negotiations, I secured and expanded the property to include plans for a 10,000-square-meter luxury resort. This development included multi-story buildings, a 5-meter deep training pool with a capacity of 3 million liters, and a 200-meter pier extending to the coral drop-off. To realize this vision, I founded architectural and construction firms, hiring licensed professionals while personally overseeing design, procurement, and compliance with various government agencies.
At the peak of construction, I led a team of over 100 employees and managed all aspects of resort development. This included planning the HR department, providing quality management instruction, organizing dive expeditions, overseeing guest accommodations, and managing restaurant services. Following the passing of my business partner, we successfully operated the resort until we had to resolve corporate share matters, ultimately completing the sale of the resort to a major corporation in 2012.
Alon Travellers Lodge — Boutique Hotel Conversion
Baywalk, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, PH — January 2016 to December 2017
In light of the exceptional location, I envisioned transforming the former restaurant into a boutique lodge complete 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 without a large budget.ds-on management can achieve remarkable results even without a large budget.
Catamaran Liveaboard & Yacht Renovations
I led the conception and build of a purpose‑designed liveaboard diving catamaran, created for extended expeditions in remote waters. The project encompassed everything from initial design and technical planning to direct oversight of the build, with careful integration of dive‑focused features such as dedicated gear‑up seating areas, thoughtfully positioned tank racks, and integrated compressor systems for efficient cylinder refills at sea. My involvement carried through complex challenges, including the resolution of a legal dispute, ensuring the vessel emerged as both a capable offshore platform and a comfortable home for divers on long voyages.
Yacht Renovations & Technical Upgrades
Various Locations — [Dates as applicable]
Across a series of private yacht renovation projects, I transformed vessels inside and out to meet modern performance demands and lifestyle needs. My work spanned structural repairs in fiberglass and epoxy, precision hull fairing, high‑grade marine paint finishes, and complete engine overhauls and rebuilds. I engineered and installed solar power arrays, hydraulic systems, and advanced onboard electronics. Where dive capability was required, I designed and built specialist areas such as tailored gear‑up benches, wet storage zones, and compressor installations integrated cleanly into the vessel’s systems. From drafting detailed construction drawings to executing them on deck, I combined design vision with hands‑on craftsmanship to deliver yachts that performed reliably while reflecting the owner’s aspirations.