In 2001, Vince Lampert set foot on Siargao’s shores for the first time. Back then, infrastructure was minimal, yet the island’s natural spirit and “raw, spectacular beauty” stood out, qualities that would inspire his enduring commitment to this surfing paradise.

A decade later, that initial encounter with Siargao led to Lampert’s involvement in a luxury resort on the island, today known as Nay Palad Hideaway.

Drawing from his background in outdoor furniture manufacturing, he helped create what he calls a “barefoot sanctuary” — a retreat designed for relaxation and harmony with nature rather than traditional hospitality standards.

A partnership that grows

Lampert’s business ventures have always relied on strong foundations. Earlier in his career, the Cebu-based company he worked with chose a banking partner that understood their needs — BDO Unibank. That professional connection soon became personal as well, evolving into a relationship that has been a steady presence in his journey for nearly 25 years.

When operations of the world-class resort in Siargao began in 2012, that support became even more critical. “BDO’s robust infrastructure has been crucial for ensuring smooth operations,” Lampert shares, citing the Bank’s handling of international payments and currency exchange for guests and suppliers, its point-of-sale systems for secure card payments, and payroll services to ensure staff were paid efficiently and on time as key examples.

Opportunities on the surfing horizon

Lampert settled full-time in Siargao in 2019, joining a growing number of entrepreneurs who have chosen to live and work on the island.

At the time, the absence of a full-service bank branch meant certain services and transactions — such as cash management, foreign exchange and advanced corporate banking needs — had to be routed through Cebu or Manila.

Those early operational hurdles seem small, however, compared to the challenge faced in December 2021, when typhoon “Odette” devastated the island, severely impacting local businesses and forcing tough decisions about their future.

For Lampert, the choice was clear: “The decision to rebuild was driven by our commitment to our team, who are like family, and to Siargao,” he says.

During the recovery period, access to liquidity and efficient fund transfers were needed. With the right financial support from a trusted partner bank, the resort was able to pay salaries and effectively manage resources, so that rebuilding could begin.