This Week in Boracay (April 6 to 12, 2019)

Summer fever will surely be felt on the island with a maximum temperature of 31°C and a minimum of 28°C [1]. While a little thunderstorm might come, it will be mostly sunny all throughout the week. The scorching heat of the sun could cause sunburn so it is best to stay indoors during midday. Wearing sunscreen is also advisable to prevent any skin disease, especially if you have sensitive skin. It is also important to remain hydrated; since sustainable development is being promoted in Boracay, bringing your own tumbler is advised.

A bridge that will connect Boracay to mainland Malay is now being proposed by a big conglomerate, San Miguel Corporation. The company has already submitted its proposal to build a 1.2-kilometer bridge to the Department of Public Works and Highways. If the proposal is accepted, San Miguel Corporation is expected to invest PhP5.48 billion for the bridge. In a statement, the DPWH said that the bridge will not cater to vehicular through-traffic. This is for the easy transport of solid waste, goods, and supplies. However, loading/unloading areas on both ends to process the movement of commuters will be provided.

A proposal to increase the environmental fee from PhP75 to PhP100 has been raised in the local council of the town. The plan is also supported by the top executive of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Secretary Roy Cimatu said he is in favor of the increase as it will help in the implementation of the zero-waste policy in the island [3]. The fund can also help in the improvement of the sanitary landfill in mainland Malay.

The week-long celebration of Labor Day dubbed as Laboracay will be changed from being an event of nonstop parties into a low-key and more meaningful celebration [4]. Instead of Laboracay, it will now be called Love Boracay to celebrate the rehabilitation of the island and instead of parties, it be filled with activities promoting environmental campaigns. The activity aims to encourage tourists, stakeholders, and residents to be more conscious of their actions.

In a move to instill the value of discipline among locals and tourists and to support the rehabilitation program of the island, strict observance of island laws is now being conducted. With that, a roving team that is part of Project Boracay Enhanced Security Strategy and Tactics (BESST) is doing rounds along the White Beach [5]. Since February 21, the team has already apprehended over 400 people violating local ordinances including littering and improper trash disposal. The roving team is expected to do random checks not only in White Beach but also in other areas of Boracay.

Visit Yoorekka to keep updated with the latest happenings, trends, and attractions in Boracay.