From his first backpacking adventure to welcoming travelers to his hostel, Mindanaoan entrepreneur Rommel Tan-Abing's journey with Rucksack Inn Siargao is a testament to resilience, bold moves, and a deep-rooted belief in accessible, quality travel. At 35, Rommel’s path to creating Rucksack Inn Siargao began long before setting foot on the island, sparked by a pivotal college trip. Originally from Cotabato, Rommel's dream took shape while fulfilling a graduation requirement.
“I spoke to my professor, asking what I could do to graduate on time. He told me, ‘Attend this seminar in Singapore, and I’ll sign your clearance.’ I had to do it,” Rommel recalled.
The journey to Singapore was his first taste of solo travel and backpacking, and he stayed in a newly opened hostel—the original Rucksack Inn. “I loved the experience—affordable, clean, and comfortable. I told myself that one day, I’d open something like this in the Philippines.
” After graduating in 2010, Rommel spent five years working in China, observing Rucksack Inn grow into an award-winning brand. By 2015, he returned to the Philippines, determined to bring his hostel vision to life. “I realized there was a gap—luxury hotels or cheap places, but few options between offering value for money.
” Rommel reached out to the founders of Rucksack Inn, reconnecting as a former guest with his own pitch. His vision for Rucksack Inn Siargao began to take shape. Initially, he planned to open the hostel in Pa.
