Even before the formal reopening, there were already reports of backsliding in the effort to make tourism in Boracay sustainable. Garbage was spotted in certain areas on the main beach. In the first days of the full reopening, the Department of Tourism received reports that certain business establishments complied with the new rules only when there were police or other members of monitoring groups around.
Those who made a living from tourism in Boracay paid a stiff price this year for the abrupt shutdown of the island at the peak of the travel season. But after paying the price, they should do everything to make it worth the pain. Images of Boracay as it slowly reopened for business showed a pristine island that deserves to be maintained as a model for eco-friendly and sustainable tourism.
Charges have been filed against local government executives who are accused of allowing the unfettered development of the island, in disregard of environmental laws. Construction continues on sewerage and other sanitation facilities for business establishments around the beach and in the inner part of the island. Casinos have been banned and smoking, drinking and partying on the beach have been prohibited.
Sustained enforcement of the new rules, however, is expected to be a challenge, as the tourism department is finding out. Police say a gang of pickpockets entered Boracay before the formal reopening, preying on tourists. Stakeholders on the island must do their part in keeping Boracay safe for visitors and residents alike.
Barangay personnel must perform their task of enforcing the new regulations to preserve the clean environment. The island, particularly the beaches, must be supplied with enough receptacles for trash. But such efforts can only go so far. Boracay can be sustainable only with the full cooperation of people – businessmen, their employees and the tourists themselves.