Just an hour’s flight southwest of the Philippines’ capital of Manila, Amanpulo lies on Pamilican Island, a private sanctuary fringed with white sand beaches and pristine reefs. For the last three decades the resort has established itself as an undisputed destination for those seeking tropical paradise, delivering unique experiences inspired by its naturally beautiful setting. For many international visitors, Amanpulo has been the first introduction to the welcoming and hospitable Fillipino culture and remains a jewel in the country’s crown. To mark its 30th anniversary, the resort is hosting a series of inspiring experiences celebrating Filipino art and cuisine, honoring the wonders of Pamalican Island, and giving back to the community.
Culinary Experiences
Organic Garden: Spice Table
The newest addition to Amanpulo’s organic farm is the Spice Table - an outdoor private dining experience in the heart of the resort’s kitchen garden. Available for lunch or dinner, the table, seating up to eight people, is immersed in the Pamalican’s lush organic farm. Handcrafted by the resort’s talented artisans, the table and chairs have been created using fallen tree branches from around the island. In this verdant setting the chef led experience provides an opportunity to learn about all the fresh produce grown on the island including the 12 native chili plants that are used in the various restaurant kitchens at Amanpulo. Every dish on the multi-course bespoke menu features a variety of chilis, herbs, and spices homegrown on the farm and in the neighbouring islands of Pamalican, immersing guests in a multitude of local flavours.
Clubhouse: Philippine Culinary Road Map
At the heart of the island is the resort’s convivial Clubhouse. From May until December, the Clubhouse delivers a culinary journey across the islands of the Philippines with a monthly seven-course tasting menu featuring dishes distinct to the different provinces and regions. For May, the spotlight is on the Ilocos region, with specialties like the Batac Empanada, a savory pastry with fillings of Vigan Longganisa (local sausage), bean sprouts, green papaya and egg, and the Pinakbet at Bagnet, a vegetable stew with squash, beans, shrimp paste and crispy pork. The regional culinary journey will feature Pampanga in June, Mountain Province in July, Bicol in August, Bacolod in September, Cebu in October, Zamboanga in November, and the waters of Palawan in December.
Lagoon Club: Omakase
Set on the island’s eastern shores, the Lagoon Club claims a romantic beachside spot with endless views of the surrounding turquoise waters. As part of the anniversary celebrations, the restaurant offers an omakase dining experience that pays homage to Japan’s culinary traditions and Aman’s three hotels in the region. Serving a multi-course menu, available for both lunch and dinner, the omakase has a Fillipino twist using the freshest local ingredients and catch of the day such as Sea Robin with Silver Striped Herring and Jack Fish with Pomelo.
Art & Cultural Experiences
Amanpulo X Pintô Art Museum
Showcasing the Pamalican Island’s breathtaking landscape, Amanpulo and Manila's Pintô Art Museum have partnered to present Amanpulo - a capsule exhibition. Taking place from 16-27 December 2023, the exhibition will showcase works by young Filipino artists - Gerardo Jimenez, Erwin Leaño, Jim Orencio, and Kenver Resuello all of which will capture the island using a variety of styles and techniques. The works will be on display at the prestigious Pintô Art Museum, with guests of Amanpulo offered the opportunity for a private view of the exhibition on return to Manila.
Amanpulo Pearl Journey
Traditionally, 30th anniversaries are marked by the gemstone pearl. As a nod to this momentous milestone Amanpulo uncovers the revered treasures of the surrounding Palawan waters with The Golden South Sea Pearl Journey.
Beginning with a 45-minute chartered helicopter ride, across the archipelago to Taytay, Palawan, the journey offers exclusive access to a pearl farm which lovingly nurtures the gold-lipped oysters that produce exquisite golden pearls. Run by international jeweller Jewelmer, the experience includes a guided tour of the oyster hatchery and laboratory for pearl grafting and harvesting, alongside an opportunity to witness local divers on their daily trips to the underwater farm.
After the comprehensive tour, take a speedboat to a nearby secluded beach providing the perfect spot for a Filipino-style picnic lunch followed by an opportunity to snorkel around the bay’s untouched coral garden before returning to Amanpulo. A bespoke pearl bracelet, created in collaboration with Jewelmer, is gifted to all participants as a keepsake of the experience. In addition, a special limited edition Jewelmer x Amanpulo bracelet will be available to purchase in the Boutique from December 2023.
Furthermore, this December, Amanpulo’s Spa will offer a limited-edition Mother of Pearl Treatment. Harnessing the unique health benefits of the stone, it is believed that pearl can help to lower blood pressure, heal wounds, cure nausea, and improve muscle tissue and blood circulation. The 90-minute treatment includes a full body massage and nourishing body scrub using mother of pearl powder.
Amanpulo and the Community
Throughout the remainder of the year, Amanpulo’s changeable monthly signature experience, provides the opportunity to contribute to the families of neighbouring Manamoc Island with a portion of proceeds of each booking donated to the Andres Soriano Foundation (ASF). ASF provides the necessary foundation and infrastructure to help local communities develop sustainably. The foundation is working closely with Manamoc Island to improve the quality of life for the community, delivering health and education services, while also managing the islands’ natural environmental integrity.
Eligible monthly experiences include the Filipino Dining Experience (June) and Cocktails and BBQ at Gary’s Nest (September), where limestone cliffs play host to a relaxed evening of al fresco dining. In December, the resort will highlight the Manamoc Island Sandbar Picnic and Village Tour which combines a visit to the island home of most of the Amanpulo team members and later a delicious breakfast or lunch on a stretch of deserted paradise.
