“This Island Needs to Be Protected”: Andi Eigenmann on Siargao’s Struggles
ANDI EIGENMANN – Former actress Andi Eigenmann is raising her voice to defend the island she now calls home, warning that Siargao’s natural charm is at risk from over-commercialization.
Andi Eigenmann has taken to social media to express her alarm over the changes she has witnessed in Siargao, raising awareness about the increasing strain brought by mass tourism and unchecked development.
The former actress, who has chosen to settle on the island with her family, reflected on how Siargao was once appreciated for its raw beauty, simplicity, and strong sense of community. Today, however, she believes the island is slowly losing its essence as commercialization takes over.
In an Instagram Story, Andi Eigenmann reminisced about the early days when visitors came for genuine experiences, writing:
“Gone are the days when people came to Siargao simply to enjoy the island for what it truly is! To surf, to connect with the locals, to celebrate without needing to post every moment!”
Andi lamented that the sense of belonging and respect for nature is fading, with the island increasingly reduced to a backdrop for social media trends and business ventures. She added:
“Back then, being here meant being part of a community and respecting the rhythm of nature.”
Her concern also extended to physical changes caused by large-scale projects. She called out investors and developers for altering untouched coastlines for luxury constructions, stating:
“Now we see others coming in for the estetiiqqqq, for the siargao is my home bruhhh. Those who are completely missing the point!! Some even go as far as backhoe-ing beachfronts for their luxury villas, touching what has not been touched for a reason. What they don’t realize is that when you disrupt nature, it will never be the same again. (Or do they realize this and simply just. Dont. Give. A d@mn?).”
Despite admitting she rarely engages in online debates, Andi emphasized the importance of speaking up for the island’s future:
“I dont like chiming in to these issues on social media, but this island, needs to be protected. For the locals who are its TRUE stewards, for the surf that made it special, and for the generations to come!”
Her post reflects a growing call among locals and advocates to balance tourism with sustainability, ensuring that Siargao’s unique environment and culture are preserved for years to come.
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