DOT: Ban on partying, drinking in Boracay stays

MANILA, Philippines — Summer beach parties in Boracay, also known as  “LaBoracay,” are strictly prohibited in the island resort, the Department of Tourism reminded the public yesterday.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the order banning parties, drinking and smoking in Boracay, which was implemented when the island was reopened to tourists last October, is still in effect.   

“Bawal po ang LaBoracay. No drinking, no smoking in public places. That still stands,” Puyat said.  

She said the nationwide ban on smoking is also provided under an executive order issued by President Duterte in 2017 while a local ordinance prohibits tourists from drinking in public places.  

LaBoracay parties, which draw local and international artists as well as foreign tourists, are usually held on Labor Day or the weekend before May 1. 

Puyat said parties are allowed provided establishments follow certain rules, such as the maximum noise level of 55 decibels. “We want to ensure that tourists who want to enjoy space and quiet will be able to do so,” she said.  

Coliform level down

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said the rehabilitation of Boracay has been sustained since its reopening.

The coliform level in the waters of Boracay has gone down based on the latest water quality monitoring of the Environmental Management Bureau.

The highest coliform level was recorded at only 40 most probable number per 100 milliliters. The level of coliform in water that is safe for swimming, skin diving and other recreational activities is 100 mpn/100 ml.

“The entire stretch of Boracay’s White Beach is safe for swimming... We hope that Bulabog Beach, which is now solely used for water sports, will also be declared swimmable soon,” Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said.

At least 51 establishments along White Beach have their own sewage treatment plants while the rest are connected to a sewer line. Forty-two establishments in other areas on the island also have their own STPs.

Cimatu said the demolition of establishments violating the easement rule is ongoing. He said construction of the circumferential road is also ongoing.

“Last year, it would take tourists an hour to reach their hotels because of traffic congestion. Now, it only takes 20 minutes because of the paved roads,” the DENR chief said.

Despite these accomplishments, Cimatu said much remains to be done to ensure Boracay’s sustainability as a world-class ecotourism destination.

“The rehabilitation of Boracay is not yet complete. It remains a work in progress,” he said.

“What we have accomplished so far have earned commendations, but building sustainability requires time as well as the continuing support of the people of Boracay,” Cimatu said. – With Louise Maureen Simeon