20 years of Tao history

20 years of Tao

It started as a dream. Get a little off the beaten track. Now, it's grown into a community of over 500 islanders. See how we've thrived!

2005

Two friends buy an old fishing boat and take a few pals on an adventure.

2006

The boat is fixed up and named Aurora. Fliers are handed to potential guests.

2007

Captain Lito and Oli join the team, and Tao partners up with more island families to host the expeditions. A simple website is made in Manila, with just a logo and an email address.

2008

A second boat, the Crisolo, launches. Oli's brothers and cousins join.

2009

The crew are named 'Lost Boys'; behind the scenes, it's the women in charge.

2010

Dipnay, a remote spot in the north of El Nido, is chosen for the main camp; it has a good water source, basic huts and the potential to farm. Two more boats launch.

2011

The Tao Kalahi Foundation starts livelihood projects for local women.

2012

The paraw sailboat project begins, with Gener gifting his skill and knowledge.

2013

The paraw launches, but Super Typhoon Yolanda strikes: 1.1 million Philippine homes are destroyed, as are Tao's boats and camps. Tao initiates a community rebuilding project.

2014

New, durable tukas are built at camp. The College Scholar Program launches.

2016

Tao takes over stewardship of Mangenguey Island. Camp Ngey Ngey becomes the base in Coron but it's badly damaged by the typhoon and the project presents challenges.

2017

New staff training includes lifeguard skills and kitchen duties for all.

2018

Architectural company Aga Mos Eco Development is set up, starting work on the Taran Beach Club and modern villas that incorporate Tao's signature bamboo roofs.

2020

Closed to guests due to Covid, but busy supporting the community.

2023

Back on track, with an expanded women's association: 80 women now work at Dipnay, enabling them to support their families. The beach bar also opens at Dipnay.

2024

Soft launch of the Taran Beach Club concept.

2025

Celebrating 20 years with a campaign to raise the profile of community travel in the Philippines. 16 Tao Scholar students have graduated university and 15 are at college.