Nadine Lustre Denies Links to Siargao Coral Reef Destruction

Nadine Lustre is caught in an island scandal after a backhoe flattened coral reefs along Siargao’s Tuason Beach to make way for a luxury villa project. Locals are furious, and Nadine and her French partner Christophe Bariou are now breaking their silence to clear their names.

The controversy started when reports of coral reef destruction in Tuason Beach surfaced online. Photos of a backhoe working near the shore sparked outrage among residents who accused a “foreign developer” of destroying the reefs for profit.

Rumours quickly spread that the project was linked to Nadine Lustre and her boyfriend Christophe Bariou, who both live in Siargao. But the couple denied having any connection to the project.

Image credit: nadine and verde.siargao | Instagram

In a recent statement, Christophe said they were offered to join the business venture but turned it down after learning about its environmental impact.

“They wanted to build a high-end resort on top of the reef. We refused,” Christophe said.

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Image credit: siargao.adventures | Threads

Christophe also revealed that after rejecting the deal, they allegedly faced harassment from local officials, including an attempted ₱50 million extortion. He described the experience as “months of intimidation and corruption.”

“We are being harassed for doing the right thing,” he added.

Image credit: Roel Catoto Facebook Page | Another secret reef destruction caught in Siargao while everyone was in lockdown last 2020.

Nadine, who has been living in Siargao for years and has openly supported eco-friendly tourism, also spoke up online, clarifying that she and Christophe “have nothing to do with the reef destruction.”

The actress has long been vocal about protecting Siargao’s environment. In past interviews, she mentioned wanting to promote sustainable living and keep the island’s beauty intact despite its growing fame among tourists.

Also read: ₱22,000 Just to See Siargao? PAL’s “Discounted” Flights Spark Backlash

Image credit: Cong. Bingo Matugas Facebook Page | Cease and desist order to stop the reef destruction in Tuason Beach

The issue has sparked a bigger conversation about how development projects affect Siargao’s fragile marine ecosystem. With tourism bouncing back, locals and travellers alike are urging authorities to protect what makes the island special, its natural beauty.

If you are planning a trip to Siargao, many groups now offer reef-safe diving tours and eco-friendly stays that help protect its marine life. Because in paradise, no villa is worth a broken reef.

Featured Image credit: nadine | Instagram