Ten years in the making, this private six-hectare in Palawan is for the well-heeled

Known for its dramatic natural beauty and unspoiled beaches, Northern Palawan was first put on the discerning traveller’s map when the exclusive Amanpulo resort opened here in the Nineties. Since then, the remote islands of this archipelagic province have attracted well-heeled wayfarers in search of pristine seascapes.

The latest luxury resort on everyone’s lips is Banwa Private Island, spread over six well-preserved hectares and nestled between regal coconut trees and lush tropical greenery, surrounded by the clear turquoise waters of the Sulu Sea.

Ten years in the making, Banwa opened in April 2019 as the passion project of a sagacious private investor aspiring to create the ultimate luxury refuge while protecting Palawan’s natural treasures.

Upon arrival, guests are escorted by personal butlers to one of six polished white beachfront villas designed by architectural firm Mañosa & Company. Each pavilion-style homestead features a private infinity pool, outdoor dining area and minimalist décor that allows Banwa’s natural beauty to shine. Through floor-to-ceiling windows, guests can enjoy tranquil beachside views that take center stage.

The social hub of the island is Latitude, a multilevel clubhouse structure that houses the diving center, a private dining room and a well-stocked cellar. The main restaurant and bar is headed by Nadedja Bouacha, a former private chef of Qatar’s royal family. There is no set menu here: Bouacha and her team dish up anything guests desire, from Philippine breakfasts like champorado (chocolate porridge) and silog (garlic fried rice served with fried egg and a choice of meat) to lobster eggs Benedict.

Lunch and dinner are discussed daily and virtually every wish can be fulfilled, paired with an impressive selection of wines and spirits from around the world. A nutritionist is on standby for special dietary requirements, while a juice and snack bar make sure guests don’t go hungry in between meals.

This level of customized service comes with a hefty price tag: US$100,000 per night, which includes taxes, yachts, speedboats, a catamaran, jet skis, some excursions, most food and drink as well as round-the-clock care by dedicated employees.

While the resort is best known for its opulent levels of exclusivity and luxury, Banwa’s profits are reinvested towards eco-friendly initiatives such as marine life preservation, conservation, community outreach and operational sustainability.

Janet Oquendo, a Palawan native and 23-year Amanpulo veteran, heads the Aquos Foundation’s local endeavors, which include a trailblazing marine protection program both around the island and in state-protected areas, a village library, a self-sufficient farm with local educational programs, bird conservation, local bee and honey production, sustainable garbage disposal and most prominently, reef regeneration and turtle protection programs.

“Our island is home to the critically endangered Hawksbill turtle, and the Aquos Foundation strives to support, nurture and protect Banwa’s delicate ecosystem via conservation and research initiatives led by world-leading experts,” Oquendo says.

Banwa provides guests with an unforgettable experience of luxury, privacy and natural beauty, while its core mission remains rooted in sustainable thinking. After all, the long-term protection and preservation of the island’s natural splendor and unique marine life is in the best interests of both its patrons and the local community.