Philippines Clarifies Eco‑Tourism Plan: Fewer Indigenous People, More Room For Infinity Pool

Authorities promoting a pristine island paradise in Palawan have reassured investors that looming evictions of an Indigenous community are simply part of a broader strategy to “optimise the visitor experience by removing any inconvenient locals”.

“Our goal is sustainable tourism,” said an official. “By which we mean the resorts will be sustainably profitable long after the original inhabitants have been sustainably relocated to somewhere out of frame.”

Developers insist the project will “honour Indigenous culture” through tasteful lobby decorations and a nightly dance show performed by underpaid staff wearing something vaguely traditional‑looking from the costume box.

Visitors will be invited to “connect with ancient wisdom” via a QR code next to the swim‑up bar.

When asked where the current residents will go, officials pointed to an artist’s impression of happy families gazing at a sunset from behind an unspecified fence.

“We’re giving them the opportunity to participate in the modern economy,” the spokesperson said. “They can work at the resort, provided guests don’t have to see where they live.”

Local leaders say the plan is simple.

“They’re turning us into a backdrop” one said. “And once the photos are taken, they want the backdrop gone.”