DAR to empower Boracay’s Ati

AGRARIAN REFORM Secretary John R. Castriciones said the executive agency would extend support services to the indigenous people of Boracay Island who recently received agricultural lands from the government.

The land titles covering a total of 3.2064 hectares, which were personally handed by President Rodrigo Duterte, were given to 44 members of the Ati group under collective ownership.

“We will be providing the farmer-beneficiaries with planting tools and implements to maximize their efficiency when it comes to productivity,” Sec. Castriciones said.

He added that the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) would soon provide various trainings to help develop the land and uplift the economic lives of the Ati.

Community leader Delsa Justo, who received the Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) in behalf of the group, said they will take care of the land for their children and the future generations of Ati.

Aside from the Ati, Sec. Castriciones said that the DAR is also eyeing to distribute lands to the Tumandok who lives on some of the wetlands in the island.

“I have already made the necessary coordination with Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu so that they would be able to develop and preserve the land,” Sec. Castrciones said.

Along with the distribution of CLOAs to the Ati, 439 farmers from the towns of Buruanga, Tanggalan, and Malay, Aklan, also received land titles, covering a total of 270.8288 hectares, from the President.##
- DAR

Ati people receive Boracay land titles

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte kept his promise to implement land reform in Boracay Island when he led the distribution of six Certificates of Land Ownership Awards (CLOA) to 44 members of Aklan’s indigenous people on November 8, 2018 at Barangay Manoc Manoc Covered Court, Malay, Aklan.

Duterte told the Ati group to take care of the awarded lands. “Till the land, make it productive so that you, your children and your grandchildren are assured of a quality life,” he said.

“Huwag kayong magpasalamat sa akin, magpasalamat kayo sa Diyos (Do not thank me, thank God),” Duterte added.

The new Ati landowners received a total of 3.2064 hectares of agricultural lands. These land titles are under collective ownership following the indigenous people’s tradition of preserving the property.

Community leader Delsa Justo received the CLOAs in behalf of the group. “Nagpapasalamat po kami kay Pangulong Duterte, pinadala siya ng Panginoon para tulungan kami. Aalagaan namin ang lupa dahil ito ang ipapamana namin sa aming mga anak at susunod na henerasyon (We thank President Duterte. He was sent by God to help us. We will take care of these lands for our children and the future generations),” Justo said.

She said that their people was the first residents in Boracay. But they had been forced to migrate within the island because of other claimants. She now hopes for a peaceful installation to the awarded lands.news national 1 pix 2 november 12 2018

Along with the distribution of CLOAs to the Atis, Duterte also awarded CLOAs to 439 farmers from Buruanga, Tanggalan, and Malay, Aklan  which covered a total of 270.8288 hectares.##

DPWH completes P8.53 million repair of Caticlan Jetty Port Road

Just in time for the opening of the world-renowned Boracay Island, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed the repair of road leading to Caticlan Jetty Port in Malay, Aklan which also serves as the island’s main gateway.

According to DPWH-Region 6 Director Wenceslao M. Leaño, the 554-meter road repair project costing P8.53 million involves asphalt overlaying along the national road including road shoulder, repair of drainage system, de-clogging of pipe culverts, construction of box culverts, and installation of Reinforced Concrete (RC) pipes, metal frames, and gratings.

Installation of thermoplastic pavement markings along the newly-repaired road was also undertaken by the DPWH maintenance personnel.

“The completion of the project would further ease travel around the newly-rehabilitated Boracay Island,” said Director Leaño.

Moreover, DPWH has already completed linking the gaps of Boracay Circumferential Road. Despite the island’s reopening, DPWH shall continue road widening works of the circumferential road which is expected to be fully accessible by 2019.

Tourists are advised to manage their expectations when they visit Boracay since the widening cannot be easily carried out considering obstructions and multiple structures hindering the way for the project’s immediate completion.

Upon completion of the entire 4.12-kilometer Boracay Circumferential Road and its missing gaps at the backdoor of Bolabog Beach in Barangay Balabag, the wider and safer highway will promote a hassle-free travel for the foreign and local patrons of the famous island.##

- DPWH 6

OVER 200 BORACAY ESTABLISHMENTS FINED P43M FOR ENVIRONMENTAL VIOLATIONS

The Pollution Adjudication Board (PAB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has fined 219 business establishments in Boracay a total of P43 million for violation of certain environmental laws.

PAB, a quasi-judicial body charged with adjudicating case
s brought by DENR’s regional offices against violators of environmental laws and regulations, slapped the erring establishments with fines ranging from P10,000 to millions of pesos depending on the length of time and gravity of offenses.

Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu had emphasized continuing vigilance in monitoring of pollution violations and swift adjudication of cases brought before the Board.

DENR Undersecretary Rodolfo Garcia, PAB’s presiding officer, said penalty notices had already been sent to the business owners, who are under obligation to pay the fines.

“We at the DENR believe that anyone who pollutes or destroys the environment must pay the cost for that destruction,” Garcia said.

Garcia said only those who settled the penalties will be allowed to process their permits to operate and discharge permits provided they have not committed other violations.

“The DENR, together with other concerned government agencies, is firm in its resolve to clean not only the waters and air of Boracay and to manage its solid waste. It also wants to clear Boracay of irresponsible and greedy business people who have placed care for the environment their least priority,” Garcia said.

According to Garcia, the rehabilitation efforts will continue even after Boracay has reopened to tourists. “We will continue to monitor all establishments and impose the necessary penalties should they be found breaking laws,” he pointed out.

Of the 209 establishments fined, 110 were found to have violated Section 1, Rule 19 of RA 8749 which requires permit to operate all sources of air pollution from the EMB. Their imposed fines totaled P1.5 million.

Another 72 establishments were fined a total of P2 million for operating facilities that discharge regulated water pollutants without a valid discharge permit, which is required under Section 27(c) of RA 9275.

Five establishments were fined a sum of P39 million for discharging untreated wastewater and exceedance of effluent standards under the clean water law.

For violating some provisions of both RAs 8749 and 9275, 22 establishments were fined a total of P900,000.

All erring establishments were issued notices of violation by the EMB Region 6 soon after Boracay was closed to tourists in April for a six-month rehabilitation from serious environmental damage.

The PAB is mandated to assess fines and issue cease and desist orders to polluting establishments, and specify compliance with the standards violated. DENR regional offices are responsible for implementing PAB’s orders. ##

- DENR

Inter-agency task force hopeful Boracay improvements will be sustained long term

As Boracay is all set for its much-awaited reopening on Friday, government agencies in charge of its rehabilitation are hoping the improved environmental condition of the world-famous resort island will be sustained for the long term.

“It is our fervent hope that the people of Boracay have learned their lesson well and that they are now ready to lead efforts to ensure the sustainability of Boracay as a world-class ecotourism destination,” said Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu, head of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF).

Boracay will reopen exactly six months after it was closed to tourists to pave the way for much-needed rehabilitation from serious environmental damage, particularly the concerns that its once-crystal-clear waters have been tainted by sewage and garbage.

Cimatu said that Boracay’s environmental sustainability would depend largely on how its residents, stakeholders and tourists will adhere to the guidelines laid down by the BIATF to protect the island from unsustainable tourism practices.

The environment chief strongly believes that more than the significant improvements and innovations done in Boracay, “a change in the behavior of the people—both the locals and tourists—will bring real change to the island.”

Cimatu expressed hope the BIATF has “successfully laid the foundations for a sustainable Boracay” during the six months the island was under rehabilitation.

Last October 15, Cimatu announced that Boracay waters are already fit for swimming based on the standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Prior to reopening, the BIATF has approved a set of guidelines to ensure Boracay’s environment will be sustained and protected from the expected massive influx of local and foreign tourists.

The guidelines include a regulation on tourist arrivals and number of persons allowed to stay in Boracay, in accordance with the island’s carrying capacity.

A study conducted by the DENR’s Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau and the University of the Philippines-Los Baños revealed that the island’s daily carrying capacity is 54,945—19,215 tourists and 35,730 non-tourists, which refer to residents, migrants and stay-in workers.

Meanwhile, DENR Undersecretary Sherwin Rigor said that among the highlights of the reopening will be the unveiling of the so-called “Boracay icon” and inauguration of the reconstructed main road.

Rigor said the “reopening ceremony” will take place at Cagban Jetty Port in Barangay Manoc-manoc.
“Cagban jetty port is the main gateway to Boracay. It is only fitting that the ceremonies marking the reopening will take place here, as a symbol of the island welcoming visitors once again to enjoy its natural beauty,” he said.

A prominent marker in Cagban port constitutes of the word “Boracay” with a 50-foot vertical garden and backdrop of the “Boracay icon,” a phrase coined by the task force to refer to an image that the island is well known for.

The marker, Rigor said, would be a “fitting symbol showcasing the ‘new’ Boracay that has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the government and the island’s stakeholders.”

According to the DENR official, the sheer size of the Boracay icon makes it visible as a welcome sign to ferry passengers approaching the mainland.

Another highlight of the opening will be the inauguration of the rehabilitated main road with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to be led by Secretary Mark Villar of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

The 4.1-km road stretches from the Cagban port to the Elizalde property in Station 1.

Environmental warriors will also take their oaths as part of the “Kaligkasan” community multipliers group during the ceremony.

The Kaligkasan, a combination of the words “kaligtasan” (safety) and “kalikasan” (nature), will augment government personnel in enforcing environmental laws and regulations on the island.

Along with the island’s rehabilitation is the improvement of Cagban port’s facilities. Among these is the renovation of the jetty itself, as well as the construction of a rotunda where vehicles can drop off passengers purchasing tickets or leaving the island.

A walkway leading to the main road has also been constructed as a separate path for people entering the island.

Puyat welcomes ‘Better’ Boracay, calls for responsible tourism

Tourism Chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat urges visitors to respect and observe local regulations to help protect and preserve Boracay Island.

Puyat made the appeal during the much-awaited reopening of the island, stressing the importance of a collective effort from the island’s residents and its visitors alike.

“As we welcome a Better Boracay, the Department of Tourism urges everyone to be responsible tourists. It is the key to the preservation of this national treasure,” says Puyat.

The first phase of the rehabilitation, which covers the moratorium on tourism activities since April 26, 2018, addressed the extreme environmental degradation, particularly seawater pollution and illegal encroachment, in beach easement areas.

“During the dry run, about a week ago, people would come up to the members of the BIATF and tell us, “This shoreline, the beachfront we are seeing now, this is the Boracay we fell in love with 30 years ago,” enthused Puyat.

Puyat ensured that there will be a strict enforcement of existing guidelines and policies such as the ordinance prohibiting the drinking of alcohol and smoking in public places, no partying within the no-build zone easement, regulation of sand castle-making, and prohibition of open fires and use of kerosene gas/fuel lamps.

“The Boracay experience is the ultimate lesson in balancing development and protecting the environment. The lessons learned here are not for Boracay alone but also for the other island destinations around our beautiful country,” added the tourism chief.

Meanwhile, Puyat clarified that while the BIATF will enforce a limitation on the number of tourists allowed in the island, currently pegged at 19,215 guests per day, the Department of Tourism (DOT) will continue to accredit compliant accommodation establishments that pass the standards of the agency.

“More rooms will be available as we continue on with Phases 2 and 3 of Boracay’s massive rehabilitation. We are making sure the Task Force requirements are 100% complied with,” said Puyat.##

photo: Members of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force and the local stakeholders join hands in front of the Boracay icon, the symbol of the new and ‘better’ Boracay. 

- DOT

Pres. Duterte is pleased with what has happened in Boracay

Salvador S. Panelo, Presidential Spokesperson and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel releases statement on the re-opening of Boracay:

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is pleased with what has happened in Boracay.

Boracay is a lesson of political will, as exhibited by PRRD and yet, it is also a lesson of neglect, misfeasance and malfeasance by responsible persons in office. The cesspool that was Boracay would not have happened if political will was exhibited by those in authority and if only officials of the island paradise, as well as the stakeholders, operated following the law and the rules and regulations of pertinent government agencies.

It has to take the strong and decisive leadership of the President to put things in order and we should all learn from these lessons so that Boracay will become an attraction not only in this country but in the world.

We commend the different Departments for the evolution and development of Boracay, as well as the patience and cooperation of everyone.##

Cimatu: much achieved, but more needs to be done to rehabilitate Boracay

Despite visible improvements, Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu said a lot more needs to be done to completely rehabilitate and ensure the sustainability of the world-famous Boracay Island.

Cimatu said that while the resort island is “no longer a cesspool,” there is no reason for government and other stakeholders to be complacent.

“This is not the time for us to relax and lower our guards,” Cimatu said on the first day of the 11-day dry run for the much-awaited reopening of Boracay later this month.

“While much has been gained already, still a lot remains to be done and we still ask for your extended patience, support and understanding,” he added.

Cimatu, who heads the inter-agency task force in charge of Boracay’s rehabilitation, cited the ongoing road and drainage improvement projects, which were delayed due to successive typhoons.

“We lost about 30 to 40 days of work but we will be able to compensate for this and finish the drainage system,” Cimatu explained.

The environment chief said that all projects will continue even after Boracay’s soft opening slated for October 26.

“Rehabilitation will continue after October 26. We are just in Phase 1,” he stressed.

Cimatu led other officials of government agencies involved in the rehabilitation of Boracay in welcoming Aklanons who were the first guests in the newly- rehabilitated island which he described as a “better Boracay”.

Boracay, he said, was no longer a cesspool and tourists can once again enjoy its pristine waters.
He gladly announced that Boracay waters are already fit for swimming based on the standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

“We offer to you now a better Boracay,” Cimatu said. “Boracay beaches are now a sight to behold and the entire island will even be grander in the near future.”

Famous for its powdery white sand, pristine blue waters and amazing sunsets, Boracay has been named several times as one of the best beaches in the world.

But on April 26, President Rodrigo Duterte issued Presidential Proclamation No. 475 ordering the closure of Boracay to tourists for six months to pave the way for its rehabilitation from environmental damage caused by overdevelopment.##

DENR wants full force of law vs Boracay litterbugs

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is aghast over the trash found on Boracay’s beachfront during the first day of the reopening dry run that it wants the full force of the law applied against litterbugs.

DENR Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and LGU Concerns Benny Antiporda said that adopting a “zero tolerance policy” against litterbugs is the best way to prevent littering problems on the island.

He said that being compliant means "nagmamahal kayo sa ating kalikasan, at yun ang gusto namin palakasin."

The DENR official issued the statement after meeting with Compliant Association of Boracay (CAB), a newly established group whose members include owners of hotels, resorts, retail shops and restaurants.

Antiporda also announced that the DENR and other government agencies in charge of Boracay’s rehabilitation are amenable to CAB’s proposal to designate its pollution officers as “marshals” so they can have authority to go after litterbugs.

"We will talk with the local police so that you can do your obligation to your country to protect the environment," Antiporda told CAB members during the meeting.

He also enjoined them to use their social media accounts to come up with a joint statement to remind people to be responsible.

The DENR, he said, is also encouraging citizen’s arrest for litterbugs.

The CAB had earlier written DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatu requesting that their pollution officers be deputized as “Boracay marshals” to police public areas on the island.

As marshals, the CAB said their pollution officers would be on the lookout for litterers and “shall remind the public to dispose of the trash properly.”

It added that “should the erring public refuse to cooperate, the marshalls may be the personal details of the individual(s) and endorse to policing agencies in Boracay.”

Antiporda reminded the public that under the Anti-Littering Law, littering is a criminal offense and violators could face a fine or render community service from eight to 16 hours.

He noted that under Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, establishments are required to designate a pollution control officer who shall ensure compliance with the law, among others.

Photos of discarded trash along Boracay’s famous White Beach went viral on social media recently. They were taken just hours after Boracay was opened to local tourists for the 11-day dry run for Boracay’s soft opening slated for October 26, 2018.##

- DENR

Bagong Buhay Boracay Product Showcase 2018

file photo / DTI-Aklan

In time for the reopening of Boracay Island, the Department of Trade and Industry - Aklan launches “Bagong Buhay Boracay Showcase 2018” at CityMall Boracay, Malay, Aklan on October 26 to 28, 2018 and will be participated by almost thirty (30) Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Large array of product selections such as decorative crafts and delicious food products will be made available during the three-day fair. Highlighted in this event are products produced by MSMEs affected by the island’s closure like festive gifts and decorative items, classy fiber-based fashion accessories, bamboo and wood welcome tokens, furnishings, souvenir items including processed foods. Also, a craft demonstration corner will be mounted to showcase the skills of local artisans in
Boracay.

Some products to be displayed will come from different municipalities which best represent their own creative skill and rich industry. These MSMEs are those tapped and assisted by the Negosyo Centers in terms of skills trainings and product development as part of Negosyo Center’s business advisory and other related assistance. Bagong Buhay Boracay Product Showcase will be an avenue for them to get exposed and be linked in the market as Boracay rises again.

This event is organized in partnership with CityMall Boracay, the Local Government Unit of Malay and the Provincial Government of Aklan.

DTI, together with its partner agencies, enjoin the public to support our MSMEs in this endeavour. Come and visit “Bagong Buhay Boracay Product Showcase 2018”. This cumulative efforts will surely bring a significant impact in the re-emergence of the island’s vibrant business community.##

- DTI-Aklan

HENANN GROUP OF RESORTS NAGBOOK NA NG MGA TURISTA KAHIT HINDI PA COMPLIANT AYON SA DENR

NALAMANG NAGBO-BOOK na ng mga turista ang Henann Group of Resorts sa Isla ng Boracay sa kabila na hindi pa ito accredited ng Department of Tourism.

Ito ang pinahayag ni Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) USec. Benny Antiporda sa isang press conference umaga ngayong Biyernes sa Isla.

Ayon kay Antiporda, hawak na nila ang reklamo ng turista na nagbook sa nasabing resort sa pamamagitan ng Agoda. Aniya ayaw umanong ibalik ng resort ang perang ibinayad ng turista.

Mahigpit ang panawagan noon ng Inter-Agency Task Force na tanging ang mga compliant establishments lamang sa Isla ang maaaring magbook ng mga turista.

Sa pinakahuling listahan na inilabas umabot na 68 accommodation establishment ang accredited ng DOT. Hindi kasama rito ang alinman sa limang resort ng Henann.

Kamakailan lang ay nabisto ng Inter-Agency Task Force na peke ang isinumiteng Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) sa Department of Tourism (DOT) para sa accreditation.

Ayon kay Antiporda wala pang Sewerage Treatment Plant ang group of resort, isang requirement para mabigyan sila ng panibagong ECC.

Nanawagan ngayon si Antiporda sa iba pang mga turista na nagbook at nagbayad sa mga resort ng Henann na magreklamo sa Inter-Agency Task Force.

Una nang nagbabala ang Task Force na ang mga non-compliant establishment na malalamang nagbo-book ng mga turista ay posibleng maharap sa kaukulang penalidad.##

-Kasimanwang Darwin Tapayan/ Energy Fm 107.7 Kalibo

MAS PINAGANDANG CAGBAN PORT BUBUNGAD SA MGA TURISTA SA PAGBUBUKAS NG ISLA NG BORACAY

ISANG MAS pinagandang Cagban Jetty Port ang sasalubong sa mga turista sa pagbubukas ng Isla ng Boracay sa darating na Oktobre 26.

Ayon kay Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) USec. Benny Antiporda, magiging highlight ng Boracay Soft Opening ang ribbon cutting ng bagong mukha ng port.

Sa isang pagkakataon, ipinasilip ni Caticlan-Cagban Jetty Port Administrator Niven Maquirang sa Energy FM Kalibo ang pagpapaganda at pagsasaayos ng nabanggit na port isang linggo bago ang Boracay Opening.

Binawalan muna ni Maquirang ang mga media na kunan ng litrato at video ang jetty port. Nais kasi ng provincial government at ng Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force na maging supresa ito.

Ilan sa mga pagbabago ng port ay ang mas malawak na entrance exit ng mga sasakyan. May mga solar panel narin na ikinabit sa port na siyang magiging source ng kuryente sa buong port.

Pagpasok ng mga turista sa port ay bubungad sa kanila ang malaking pangalang "Boracay" at malaking billboard na nagpapakita ng bagong mukha ng Isla.

Ayon kay Maquirang posibleng gamitin na ang port simula Oktobre 26.##

-Kasimanwang Darwin Tapayan/ Energy Fm 107.7 Kalibo

HENANN HINILING SA DENR NA PAYAGAN MAG-OPERATE KAHIT HINDI PA ACCREDITED

TINANGGIHAN NG Department of Environment and Natural Resources o DENR ang hiling ng Henann Group of Resorts sa Isla ng Boracay na mag-operate kahit hindi pa accredited.

Ayon kay DENR USec. Benny Antiporda, hiniling umano ng may-ari na si Henry Chosuey na payagan silang mag-operate habang ikino-comply palang nila ang mga dokumento para sa accreditation.

Nahaharap ngayon sa kontrobersiya at imbestigasyon ang group of resorts dahil sa pagsusumite ng pekeng Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) sa Department of Tourism (DOT).

Mababatid na sa inilabas na 68 accredited accomodation establishment sa Boracay ng Department of Tourism, hindi kasama rito ang alinman sa limang resort ng Henann.

Ayon kay Antiporda, kinausap umano niya ng personal ang tauhan ng Henann na nagsumite ng pekeng ECC. Paliwanag umano nito, na-excite lang siya nang makita ang ECC sa kanyang mesa at agad ipinasa sa DOT para mabigyan na ng akreditasyon.

Nabatid na handwritten lamang ang petsa sa ECC kesa sa karaniwan na itinatatak. Humingi naman umano ng paumanhin ang tauhang ito ng Hennan.

Aniya wala pa umanong Sewerage Treatment Plant ang group of resorts. Ipagpapatuloy pa ng Inter-Agency Task Force ang imbestigasyon sa kaso titingnan kung mayroon din silang pagkukulang.##

-Kasimanwang Darwin Tapayan/ Energy Fm 107.7 Kalibo

DENR: HUWAG PANSININ ANG PETISYON NA TUMUTUTOL SA MGA PATAKARANG IPINATUTUPAD NG BORACY INTER-AGENCY TASK FORCE

Huwag pansinin. Ito ang tugon ni Department of Environment and Natural Resources USec. Benny Antiporda sa petisyong kumakalat ngayon sa Isla ng Boracay.

Sa isang press conference umaga ng Biyernes, sinabi ni Antiporda hindi umano nila kinikilala ang mga nagrereklamong non-compliant establishment bilang mga stakeholders sa Boracay.

Binigyang diin ni Antiporda na sumunod nalang ang mga ito sa ipinatutupad na batas dahil nagawa rin naman ng iba na sumunod at maging compliant.

Nabatid na bumuo na ng organisasyon ang mga compliant establishment sa Boracay para may kumatawan sa mga pagpupulong ng Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force.

Mababatid na kumukalat ngayon sa social media ang umano'y petisyon na nanawagan sa lokal na pamahalaan na tutulan ang ilang patakarang ipinatutupad ng Task Force.##

Task force ready to fix problems as dry run puts govt interventions in Boracay to the test—Cimatu

Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu has assured that the government was prepared to address all problems that might occur during the 11-day dry run for the reopening of the world famous Boracay Island.

Cimatu said the government policies and interventions intended to protect Boracay from unsustainable tourism activities will be put to the test during the dry run, which started on Monday and will last until October 25.

“The point of the dry run is to ensure that everything will run smoothly during the soft opening on October 26,” said Cimatu, who heads the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF) in charge of Boracay’s rehabilitation.

While the dry run got off to a good start, Cimatu said the BIATF would know on the third day whether the government interventions really work.

“We will only see the effects and results of all these interventions on the third day after tourist arrivals,” he said.

Cimatu said the BIATF would “not allow the rehabilitation efforts done in the past six months go to waste.”

He particularly cited the “environmental interventions” that has made Boracay “no longer a cesspool,” which was how President Rodrigo Duterte described it before the island was ordered closed to tourists in April.

“As you may have observed, there has been not only a visible improvement in water quality. Tests done by the EMB (Environmental Management Bureau) revealed that the coliform level is now down to 18.1 MPN/100 mL from thousands or even millions in some areas of the island’s waters prior to closing,” Cimatu said.

The standard coliform level is 100 most probable number per 100 milliliters of sample.

Cimatu said the EMB, a line bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, will continue to check the quality of water discharged from sewage treatment plants (STPs) on the island.

He said that solid waste disposal will also be looked into in order to make sure Boracay’s garbage are “immediately moved out and not remain on the island for more than 24 hours.”

Cimatu insisted that only establishments compliant with the requirements of the DENR, the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Department of Tourism are allowed to reopen and operate.

The DENR, he said, will only issue environmental compliance certificate (ECC) to businesses with own STPs or connected to a provider, and those not within forestlands or wetlands.

Cimatu said that tourist arrival of 6,405 persons per day will be strictly followed.

Only a total of 1,000 rooms from accredited hotels will be available for booking at any time during the day, Cimatu said.

“The BIATF is firm on 100% compliance. If you do not comply, you do not operate," Cimatu stressed.
He added: More than all these, a change in the behavior of the people—the locals and the tourists—will bring real change to Boracay.”

- DENR

CIMATU: STRICT COMPLIANCE WITH GUIDELINES REQUIRED EVEN DURING BORACAY DRY RUN

GOVERNMENT AGENCIES in charge of the rehabilitation of Boracay will closely monitor compliance and effectiveness of the guidelines laid down to protect the resort island from unsustainable tourism practices during its dry run or partial reopening from October 15 to 25.

Environment Secretary Roy A. Cimatu, head of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF), said the 11-day dry run would allow government to test all systems put in place during the six months Boracay underwent much-needed rest and cleanup.

He therefore appealed for cooperation and understanding from all stakeholders and local tourists, who will be among the firsts to experience a reinvigorated Boracay.

“We will be monitoring a lot of things, from managing the entrance, exit, and stay of the tourists, to enforcing rule of law on establishments that have been found to be non-compliant to laws and regulations,” Cimatu said.

The former military chief said the government would strictly enforce the “no compliance, no operation” policy for establishments not only during the dry run but beyond Boracay’s formal reopening on October 26.

“We will not hesitate to close hotels and other establishments that would operate without clearance from the BIATF,” Cimatu said.

He also warned tourists who are planning to visit the island to make sure they book their accommodations with compliant hotels and similar establishments, a complete list of which will be released by the Department of Tourism.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is deploying at least 30 environmental enforcers to check on Boracay’s water quality, solid waste management, drainage and sewage systems, and occupation on forest areas and wetlands.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police have committed to help maintain peace and order on the island during the dry run leading to the October 26 reopening.

“We are trying to correct the mistakes of the past, and we have succeeded in finding a solution to cleaning the environment. We do not want to backslide on what we have started,” Cimatu said.

The BIATF recently approved a set of guidelines to ensure Boracay’s environment will be sustained and protected from the expected massive influx of local and foreign tourists.

The guidelines include a regulation on tourist arrivals and number of persons allowed to stay in Boracay, in accordance with the island’s carrying capacity.

A study conducted by the DENR’s Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau and the University of the Philippines-Los Baños revealed that the island’s daily carrying capacity is 54,945—19,215 tourists and 35,730 non-tourists, which refer to residents, migrants and stay-in workers.

During the dry run, the BIATF will be implementing a traffic scheme amid ongoing road works on the island. This includes ferrying visitors directly to the Tambisaan port or pontoons set up at different boat stations, and impounding private and public vehicles operating without permit.##

- DENR

COMMUNITY EXPRESSES APPRECIATION TO THE GOVERNMENT IN REHABILITATING BORACAY

The Boracay Community releases statement 19 days before Boracay Island re-opening to the national government's effort in rehabilitating the Island.

The Boracay Community expresses its appreciation to His Excellency President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, by his exercise of political will through the decision to close and rehabilitate the island. Boracay’s rehabilitation is a strong testament of the government’s dedication to prioritize environmental preservation over economic gains.

The Boracay community recognizes the Boracay Inter Agency Task Force’s (BIATF) achievements as an effective practice of collaboration among different agencies - which proves it is indeed possible to succeed through cooperation.

Through the government’s efforts, water quality around the island has significantly improved. Particularly noteworthy is the ongoing major construction works, on the long delayed drainage system which the community had been clamoring for over several decades. Successful project implementation has removed illegal boarding houses and replaced old electrical posts among others.
 
The project has considerably helped awaken the concern of the community and advance the interest of sustaining the island for the future. It has improved sanitary conditions for the local community, and brings environmental standards in line with expectations for the country’s premier tourism destination.
   
The closure albeit a painful learning experience, has positively resulted in closer and collaborative community relations. Nineteen (19) days before the island’s reopening to the world, the island’s several stakeholder organizations remain steadfast in its commitment to support actions necessary for the betterment of our home, Boracay.

We accept that the Boracay rehabilitation is a work in progress, and we are committed to help every step of the way.

Boracay Island thanks you for what has been done so far, and supports the on-going efforts as Boracay re-opens her beauty to the world.##

SUSPENSIYON NG ECC SA MGA ESTABLISYEMENTO SA BORACAY INALIS NA NG DENR

INALIS NA ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources ang suspensiyon ng Environmental Compliance Certificate sa Boracay.

Base ito sa inilabas na Memorandum Circular No. 2018-14 ng Kagawaran araw ng Biyernes kaugnay ng takdang pagbubukas ng Isla sa Oktobre 26.

Inatasan rito ni DENR Sec. Roy Cimatu ang Environmental Management Bureau Regional Office 6 na alisin ang suspensyon ng ECC sa lahat ng complying hotels and establishment sa Isla.

Mababatid na nagsimula ang suspensiyon ng ECC sa Boracay buwan ng Hulyo sa pamamagitan ng Memorandum Circular No. 2018-03 para suriin ang compliance ng mga establisyemento.

Sa kabila ng lifting, sinabi ni Cimatu na magpapatuloy ang pagrereview ng binuong komitiba sa mga ECC at Environmental Management Plans ng mga establiahments at ang pagsusumite ng report sa kanya.

Magpapatuloy rin umano ang kanilang pagsusuri sa mga Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC).

Ang mga ito ay para masiguro umano na sumusunod sa mga environmental laws ang mga establisyemento at na walang nang mga paglabag.##

-Kasimanwang Darwin Tapayan, Energy Fm 107.7 Kalibo

PESO-MALAY MAY PANAWAGAN SA MGA TRABAHANTE NA GUSTONG BUMALIK SA BORACAY

photo © MBTF, file photo

MAY PANAWAGAN ngayon ang Public Employment Service Office (PESO) – Malay sa mga trabahante na gustong bumalik sa Isla ng Boracay.

Sa panayam ng ENERGY FM KALIBO kay Jona Solano, Municipal Coordinator ng PESO-Malay, sinabi niya na kailangan munang siguraduhin ng mga babalik na worker sa isla na nakarehistro na ang kanilang pangalan sa PESO.

Aniya, ang mga workers ay may sarili nang lane sa Caticlan Port at sa Port sa Boracay kung saan isasailalim sila sa screening ng mga staff ng PESO para masigurong nakarehistro na sila.

Noon pa man aniya ay pinaaasikaso na ng kanilang tanggapan sa kanilang employer ang mga pangalan ng kanilang mga employee o worker para sa pagrehistro sa PESO-Malay.

Nagkakaroon lamang umano ng hindi pagkakaunawaan sa port kung wala sila sa listahan. Tatawagan umano nila ang kompanya o establisyementong pinagtratrabahuhan para makumpirma.

Kung wala sa list, hahanapan muna ito ng certification of employment mula sa kanyang employer at pagbabayarin ng Php200 para sa occupational permit base aniya ito sa mga municipal ordinance para makapasok at makapagtrabaho sa Isla.

Nilinaw rin niya na ang nirerequire lang nila sa nakarehistro na mga workers ay company ID at certification ng employer at hindi na kailangan ang voter’s ID o iba pang government ID.

Sa mga naghahanap palang umano ng trabaho ay makabubuti na sa online nalang muna mag-apply at sa mga datihan naman ay siguraduhing pinatatawag na sila ng employer kung babalik na sila at pinarehistro na sila sa PESO.

Maaari rin muna silang makipag-ugnayan sa kanilang tanggapan kabilang na kapag may job fair sa mainland.##

25 RESORTS MAY PERMIT TO OPERATE NA PARA SA MULING PAGBUBUKAS NG BORACAY ISLAND SA OCT. 26

DALAWAMPU’T LIMANG resorts ang mayroon ng permit para mag-operate simula sa soft reopening ng Boracay sa October 26.

Ayon sa Department of Environment and Natural Resources, magbubukas ang kabuuang 1,000 kwarto sa unang araw ng operasyon ng isla matapos ang ilang buwang pagsasara.

Ang hotel na mayroong 40 rooms pataas na nasa beach front ay dapat na may sariling sewerage treatment plant habang ang istablisyimentong may 49 rooms pababa ay kailangang nakakonekta sa sewer line ng isla.

Bukod sa limitadong operasyon ng mga istablisyimento na may kumpletong permits mula sa lokal na pamahalaan, DENR at kaukulang ahensya ng gobyerno, ireregulate rin ang mga aktibidad sa waterfront ng boracay.

Bawal na rin sa beach front ang fire dance, fish feeding, coral picking, open fire, paggamit ng kerosene lamps, mga lamesa, upuan at ibang gamit gayundin ang malalaking beach umbrella, souvenir shops at electirical lights.

Mayroon na ring no-build, no-party at no smoling zones sa loob ng 25 plus 5 meters ng beachfront.
Maski ang pagtatanim ng mga puno ng niyog ay nangangailangan ng permit mula sa DENR.##

- Radyo INQUIRER