BORACAY — More than 26,000 tourists visited this resort island during the Holy Week, figures from the Caticlan Jetty Port in Brgy. Caticlan, Malay, Aklan revealed.
The data were gathered only from Holy Monday until Good Friday, hence, the possibility of an unrecorded number of tourists, said Niven Maquirang, Caticlan Jetty Port administrator.
Tourists usually go through preregistration upon arriving at the jetty port.
However, those who were pre-booked in high-class hotels are unable to go through the process as they are being fetched by the hotel or resort service.
On April 18, Holy Monday, there were some 3,749 tourists that visited Boracay; April 19, 4,072; April 20, 6,204; April 21, 10,197; and April 22, 2,079.
The jetty port is yet to determine the tourist arrivals on April 23, Black Saturday, and April 24, Easter Sunday.
This year’s Holy Week tourist arrivals here are higher compared to those on the same period last year, which only reached 24,009, according to the Department of Tourism.
Meanwhile, Maquirang said the resort island was generally peaceful during the Holy Week.
“So far, the Task Force Boracay and other government enforcers did a very good job. The resort island peacefully celebrated the Holy Week,” he said.
The task force is composed of personnel from the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard, among others.
Earlier, the local government of Malay thanked the tourists for their cooperation while vacationing in this resort island.
The local government unit also reported that amid the influx of tourists, it has successfully implemented its anti-littering and anti-smoking ordinance here.
It deployed local police auxiliaries and volunteers to ensure that tourists were informed about the local laws in Boracay.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Boracay priest urges tourists to observe Lent
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan– Fr. Maglore Placer, the parish priest of Balabag, Boracay is urging bars and restaurants here to observe Lent even just during the Good Friday.
Placer said that Malay has an ordinance declaring Good Friday as no noise day. Starting 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. of the next day, bars and restaurants are restricted from creating noise.
"We are also inviting everyone to join us in our via crucis which highlights procession at the beach. This is to showcase our Catholic tradition to the tourists," Fr. Placer said.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) considered Holy Week as the time when many people come to Boracay to enjoy a vacation.
The local police have already stepped up their security campaign to ensure peace and order.
Placer said that Malay has an ordinance declaring Good Friday as no noise day. Starting 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. of the next day, bars and restaurants are restricted from creating noise.
"We are also inviting everyone to join us in our via crucis which highlights procession at the beach. This is to showcase our Catholic tradition to the tourists," Fr. Placer said.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) considered Holy Week as the time when many people come to Boracay to enjoy a vacation.
The local police have already stepped up their security campaign to ensure peace and order.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Reef destruction, overfishing bug Boracay
RECTO VIDAL
BORACAY – Locals blame overfishing for the dwindling fish catch here. A rapid resource assessment and survey conducted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) confirmed this.
In this island, reef fish communities are made up of low-value, small sub-adult fishes. But they become expensive market commodities when sold fresh, and so they are being rapaciously targeted by local fishers.
Boracay is famed for its powdery white sand, but fishes are important tourist attractions here, too, especially in scuba diving sites in Punta Bunga and Bunugan.
The main purpose of the BFAR survey was to establish a baseline data on the status of marine resources, more specifically the coral reefs and other marine life in the surrounding areas, and to identify possible fishery reserve sites.
It identified anchovies, cods, siganids, mullets, snappers and groupers as among the commercially exploited species here.
The main ways of catching fish in the waters off the island are spear or darts and hook and line, but many are also using very fine nets.
On the other hand, the destruction of corals in certain parts of the beach may be due to dynamite fishing many years ago, the indiscriminate docking of ships that brought construction supplies to the island during the construction boom, destructive fishing practices and overfishing.
Corals provide shelter and breeding places for other ecologically important species in the reef. Thus, water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling and even reef gleaning and fishing in shallow waters must be undertaken with caution to avoid further disturbances in the ecosystem.
Based on the survey, the general condition of the reefs surrounding the island is poor.
“There is a need to protect and manage the remaining resources such as corals, fishes and other marine organisms observed in surrounding waters of the island and the adjacent islands and islets in Caticlan,” stressed Sandra Victoria Arcamo, chief of BFAR’s Fisheries Resource Management Division.
BFAR aquaculturists recommended that the coastal waters surrounding the island be declared a fishery reserve, including the islands and islets in Caticlan.
Corals have been used as building materials – coral blocks are found in many old churches and houses in many towns in Panay Island. Locally known as igang, coral blocks have also become landscaping materials in parks and homes. They are even sold along the highways from Caticlan to Iloilo City.
These are also used as embankments in fishponds. Agricultural lime is extracted from coral deposits by fining, pack in sacks and sold to sugarcane farmers to modify soil pH (acidity or basicity).
While collection activities offer additional income to the residents, the people have already recognized somehow the ecological value of these resources in the survival of the island and the tourism industry.
Bleached corals are washed out to the beach by strong currents and action of waves especially during typhoons. They are often collected as souvenir items. A local ordinance is enforced by the local government of Malay and the three barangays in the island are prohibiting collection.
Posters prohibiting collection and sale of protected and endangered corals are posted in the Department of Tourism and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources field offices and in some strategic places in the island.
The ceaseless beating of the waves brings about the pulverization of reefs, creating the fine white sands that Boracay is world-famous for.
Other resource management schemes (e.g. for coral reefs) which could improve the fisheries and the marine ecosystem in the area must also be considered.
Quarterly monitoring of coastal water quality should also be made part of the regular activities, being one of the critical components of the well-being of Boracay’s marine life.
BORACAY – Locals blame overfishing for the dwindling fish catch here. A rapid resource assessment and survey conducted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) confirmed this.
In this island, reef fish communities are made up of low-value, small sub-adult fishes. But they become expensive market commodities when sold fresh, and so they are being rapaciously targeted by local fishers.
Boracay is famed for its powdery white sand, but fishes are important tourist attractions here, too, especially in scuba diving sites in Punta Bunga and Bunugan.
The main purpose of the BFAR survey was to establish a baseline data on the status of marine resources, more specifically the coral reefs and other marine life in the surrounding areas, and to identify possible fishery reserve sites.
It identified anchovies, cods, siganids, mullets, snappers and groupers as among the commercially exploited species here.
The main ways of catching fish in the waters off the island are spear or darts and hook and line, but many are also using very fine nets.
On the other hand, the destruction of corals in certain parts of the beach may be due to dynamite fishing many years ago, the indiscriminate docking of ships that brought construction supplies to the island during the construction boom, destructive fishing practices and overfishing.
Corals provide shelter and breeding places for other ecologically important species in the reef. Thus, water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling and even reef gleaning and fishing in shallow waters must be undertaken with caution to avoid further disturbances in the ecosystem.
Based on the survey, the general condition of the reefs surrounding the island is poor.
“There is a need to protect and manage the remaining resources such as corals, fishes and other marine organisms observed in surrounding waters of the island and the adjacent islands and islets in Caticlan,” stressed Sandra Victoria Arcamo, chief of BFAR’s Fisheries Resource Management Division.
BFAR aquaculturists recommended that the coastal waters surrounding the island be declared a fishery reserve, including the islands and islets in Caticlan.
Corals have been used as building materials – coral blocks are found in many old churches and houses in many towns in Panay Island. Locally known as igang, coral blocks have also become landscaping materials in parks and homes. They are even sold along the highways from Caticlan to Iloilo City.
These are also used as embankments in fishponds. Agricultural lime is extracted from coral deposits by fining, pack in sacks and sold to sugarcane farmers to modify soil pH (acidity or basicity).
While collection activities offer additional income to the residents, the people have already recognized somehow the ecological value of these resources in the survival of the island and the tourism industry.
Bleached corals are washed out to the beach by strong currents and action of waves especially during typhoons. They are often collected as souvenir items. A local ordinance is enforced by the local government of Malay and the three barangays in the island are prohibiting collection.
Posters prohibiting collection and sale of protected and endangered corals are posted in the Department of Tourism and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources field offices and in some strategic places in the island.
The ceaseless beating of the waves brings about the pulverization of reefs, creating the fine white sands that Boracay is world-famous for.
Other resource management schemes (e.g. for coral reefs) which could improve the fisheries and the marine ecosystem in the area must also be considered.
Quarterly monitoring of coastal water quality should also be made part of the regular activities, being one of the critical components of the well-being of Boracay’s marine life.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Boracay motor bancas extend operation
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan- Operation of motor bancas plying the Boracay-Caticlan route and vice-versa has been extended until 10 p.m. this Holy Week to accommodate the influx of tourists.
Niven Maquirang, Caticlan port administrator, however, said that they are still open to the possibility of further extending the operation, depending on the demand of tourists coming to and from Boracay.
During regular days, the operation of bancas is only until 8 p.m.
"The extension of the operation also depends on the weather condition. So far, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has forecasted a summer weather for Boracay this week," Maquirang said.
Maquirang also said that hotels in this resort island are already fully booked as tourists started coming in.
"Tourists who failed to have early hotel reservations may opt to stay in residential houses. There are many houses in Boracay that are open for staying overnight," he added.
The peak season is expected to end Monday next week.
Niven Maquirang, Caticlan port administrator, however, said that they are still open to the possibility of further extending the operation, depending on the demand of tourists coming to and from Boracay.
During regular days, the operation of bancas is only until 8 p.m.
"The extension of the operation also depends on the weather condition. So far, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has forecasted a summer weather for Boracay this week," Maquirang said.
Maquirang also said that hotels in this resort island are already fully booked as tourists started coming in.
"Tourists who failed to have early hotel reservations may opt to stay in residential houses. There are many houses in Boracay that are open for staying overnight," he added.
The peak season is expected to end Monday next week.
No foreign drug groups in Boracay - PDEA
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan- There are no foreign drug groups operating in Boracay Island, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
PDEA Regional Director Paul Ledesma said that based on their monitoring, "shabu" and marijuana are the kinds of drugs that are being used in the island.
"Our recovery of shabu indicated that only Filipino drug users were in this resort island. Foreign tourists do not use shabu because they know it is only a fake industrial cleaner. What foreign tourists often use in their illegal drug trade is either cocaine or heroin. Our PDEA personnel are yet to recover heroin or cocaine in Boracay to determine if foreign drug groups have penetrated this resort island," Ledesma said.
The PDEA has deployed personnel in bars and disco pubs here to conduct intelligence gathering on the use of illegal drugs.
The PDEA is likewise monitoring the presence of Manila-based syndicates. Already, the PDEA has identified two local syndicates engaged in illegal drug activities.
Aside from the PDEA team, operatives from the Philippine Coast Guard, Civil Aviation and the Philippine National Police have been alerted over possible proliferation of illegal drugs in this resort island this Holy Week.
PDEA Regional Director Paul Ledesma said that based on their monitoring, "shabu" and marijuana are the kinds of drugs that are being used in the island.
"Our recovery of shabu indicated that only Filipino drug users were in this resort island. Foreign tourists do not use shabu because they know it is only a fake industrial cleaner. What foreign tourists often use in their illegal drug trade is either cocaine or heroin. Our PDEA personnel are yet to recover heroin or cocaine in Boracay to determine if foreign drug groups have penetrated this resort island," Ledesma said.
The PDEA has deployed personnel in bars and disco pubs here to conduct intelligence gathering on the use of illegal drugs.
The PDEA is likewise monitoring the presence of Manila-based syndicates. Already, the PDEA has identified two local syndicates engaged in illegal drug activities.
Aside from the PDEA team, operatives from the Philippine Coast Guard, Civil Aviation and the Philippine National Police have been alerted over possible proliferation of illegal drugs in this resort island this Holy Week.
Business sector divided over Caticlan reclamation
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan– Business groups here have clashing stands over the 2.6-hectare reclamation project in Barangay Caticlan, Malay Aklan.
Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI) president Loubell Cann said that they have already asked President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to intervene and stop the project. The BFI is consistently opposing the reclamation project being undertaken by the Aklan provincial government.
The BFI opposition is supported by the local government of Malay through a resolution for such. The Malay local government is also planning to file an injunction against the reclamation project.
Meanwhile, Ariel Abriam, president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay said that the board will convene this week to come out with an official stand on the reclamation project.
Recently, Abriam personally expressed favor over the project as it has been granted approval by the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA).
Niven Maquirang of the Caticlan Jetty Port believed that the PCCI-Boracay will favor the reclamation project since the latter had commissioned the study undertaken by the University of the Philippines Marine Environmental Resource Protection.
"The BFI has earlier promised to undertake its own study. We are still waiting for it. It is good thing that the PCCI-Boracay has accomplished its own study on the reclamation project," said Maquirang.
The researchers of the study were being headed by Dr. Cesar Villanoy, Fernando Siringan, Olivia Cabrerra and Riovie Ramos.
According to the summary of their report, the sea flow across the Caticlan-Boracay channel is primarily tide-driven and Phase 1 of the reclamation project will not significantly affect the flow of the channel.
The direct impact will most likely be changed in erosion/deposition patterns along the Caticlan coast but unlikely to impact Boracay beaches; however, simulations show a lively significant impact for Phase 2 and 4.
The narrower channel in this area will most likely divert flow instead of flowing through channel and diverted flow may increase transport of suspended and dissolved matter of Boracay beaches.
Villanoy, however, denied earlier report endorsing the project, saying that he is merely reporting the outcome of the study.
Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI) president Loubell Cann said that they have already asked President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to intervene and stop the project. The BFI is consistently opposing the reclamation project being undertaken by the Aklan provincial government.
The BFI opposition is supported by the local government of Malay through a resolution for such. The Malay local government is also planning to file an injunction against the reclamation project.
Meanwhile, Ariel Abriam, president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay said that the board will convene this week to come out with an official stand on the reclamation project.
Recently, Abriam personally expressed favor over the project as it has been granted approval by the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA).
Niven Maquirang of the Caticlan Jetty Port believed that the PCCI-Boracay will favor the reclamation project since the latter had commissioned the study undertaken by the University of the Philippines Marine Environmental Resource Protection.
"The BFI has earlier promised to undertake its own study. We are still waiting for it. It is good thing that the PCCI-Boracay has accomplished its own study on the reclamation project," said Maquirang.
The researchers of the study were being headed by Dr. Cesar Villanoy, Fernando Siringan, Olivia Cabrerra and Riovie Ramos.
According to the summary of their report, the sea flow across the Caticlan-Boracay channel is primarily tide-driven and Phase 1 of the reclamation project will not significantly affect the flow of the channel.
The direct impact will most likely be changed in erosion/deposition patterns along the Caticlan coast but unlikely to impact Boracay beaches; however, simulations show a lively significant impact for Phase 2 and 4.
The narrower channel in this area will most likely divert flow instead of flowing through channel and diverted flow may increase transport of suspended and dissolved matter of Boracay beaches.
Villanoy, however, denied earlier report endorsing the project, saying that he is merely reporting the outcome of the study.
Smart brings LTE mobile broadband to the Philippines
Vacationers at the beach paradise of Boracay, Aklan will get a taste of the world’s fastest mobile broadband technology starting this Holy Week, courtesy of cellular leader Smart Communications.
Called Long Term Evolution (LTE), this latest advance in mobile broadband technology can deliver download and upload speeds of up to 50 mbps. In the near future, LTE will be able to provide speeds of up 100 mbps.
Recognized as the most advanced fourth-generation (4G) mobile broadband technology, LTE will enable individual users to download a movie in minutes rather than hours, download songs in seconds and easily watch high-definition video on Youtube with no buffering.
Smart has fired up its LTE network in the country and is rolling it out. To give mobile phone users a chance to experience the new service, Smart has set up a booth near Pats and Bombom (Station 2) in Boracay where interested people can use laptops equipped with LTE dongles. They can also use their WiFi-enabled mobile phones, tablets or laptops in the WiFi hotzone at the Smart booth which is powered by LTE.
To enjoy LTE, subscribers would need LTE-capable devices. For the Boracay demo, SMART provides LTE plug-it devices. In the near future, LTE-capable phones will also be available.
Comparison of HSPA+ vs LTE
LTE is the fastest mobile broadband technology in the world with the fastest speeds and minimal latency
HSPA+
Theoretical Data Rates (DL): up to 42 Mbps
Latency: 50 microseconds
LTE
Theoretical Data Rates (DL): up to over 100 Mbps
Latency: 10 microseconds
For mobile broadband fans, this is definitely something to get excited about!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Boracay PNP bares security preparations for Holy Week
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan- The Boracay Special Tourists Police Office (BSTPO) here bared security preparations for the Holy Week even as it urged stakeholders to cooperate in order to ensure the peaceful commemoration of the Lenten season.
Supt. Rolando Vilar, chief of the BSTPO, said that proper coordination has already been made with the local government unit (LGU) here and other the stakeholders on how they could be able to help the police ensure peace and order.
One augmentation team, 54 BSTPO organic members, and 150 force multipliers will be deployed in Boracay next week.
"First, we are asking resorts and firms in Boracay to install a close circuit television (CCTV). Another is we asked firm managers to require their respective staff to wear their nameplates or identification cards for easily identification of our police personnel," Vilar said.
The proposal to install CCTV camera came after police received complaints of missing visitors' personal belongings after staying in several resorts. Police believed that the incidents were inside job and were perpetrated by resorts employees.
Vilar said that police officials will also be monitoring the beach 24 hours daily to ensure that no indecent activity will take place.
Aside from foreign and local tourists, celebrities are also expected to come in droves to this resort island for the Holy Week.
Meanwhile, the Caticlan Jetty Port said that it already deployed facilities such are x-ray machines and canine dogs of the Philippine Coast Guard to monitor presence of illegal drugs and weapons that might enter this resort island.
Supt. Rolando Vilar, chief of the BSTPO, said that proper coordination has already been made with the local government unit (LGU) here and other the stakeholders on how they could be able to help the police ensure peace and order.
One augmentation team, 54 BSTPO organic members, and 150 force multipliers will be deployed in Boracay next week.
"First, we are asking resorts and firms in Boracay to install a close circuit television (CCTV). Another is we asked firm managers to require their respective staff to wear their nameplates or identification cards for easily identification of our police personnel," Vilar said.
The proposal to install CCTV camera came after police received complaints of missing visitors' personal belongings after staying in several resorts. Police believed that the incidents were inside job and were perpetrated by resorts employees.
Vilar said that police officials will also be monitoring the beach 24 hours daily to ensure that no indecent activity will take place.
Aside from foreign and local tourists, celebrities are also expected to come in droves to this resort island for the Holy Week.
Meanwhile, the Caticlan Jetty Port said that it already deployed facilities such are x-ray machines and canine dogs of the Philippine Coast Guard to monitor presence of illegal drugs and weapons that might enter this resort island.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Mounting opposition to Boracay casino proposal
by Atty.Ronquillo C. Tolentino
Amidst stiff opposition by Boracay residents and the Diocese of Kalibo, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) twice put aside the plan to establish a casino in Boracay notwithstanding the same position now aired by Pagcor, nay, Sangguniang Bayan of Malay, that earnings could help in the easy financing of development projects on the island tourist destination.
It was on August 31, 2003 when PAGCOR set aside the plan when the former president categorically declared that she was against it.
As a matter of recollection, then Kalibo Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes in his December 10, 2002 letter to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo with attached letters from parish priests and member of the pastoral councils in the Diocese of Aklan sought the president to stop the plan to put up a casino citing the harmful effects of the proposed casino.
Reyes stressed in his October 22, 2002 pastoral letter that casinos are the cause of the impoverishment and breaking up of families. “Casino promote enslavement or addiction to the passion of gambling. They weaken the moral strength of people”, Reyes emphasized.
Reyes added that Boracay is God’s gift to Aklan and the whole world. “Until now it is a family resort frequented and enjoyed by all. It is still wholesome. Let us help at that way”. Reyes concluded.
When the plans to put up casino in Boracay again surfaced in 2008, Kalibo Bishop Jose Romeo Lazo rejected the plan again.
Lazo stressed that Boracay is a natural treasure of the Aklanons and the Filipino people. “We are for a family-oriented and wholesome island resort and we therefore want a drug-free and gambling-free Boracay”, Lazo added.
The 2008 plan of Pagcor again failed. This time, plan is being resuscitated with the help of Malay’s Sangguniang Bayan.
Business organizations in Boracay, specifically the Boracay Foundation, Inc. (BFI) had declared that it is opposed to the putting up of a casino in Boracay.
An email sent me by a friend from New Jersey, USA had stated that the casino proposal is being opposed in the USA. While he did not specify whether the opposition came from Aklanons in the Unites States, he requested me to see and read certain opposition statements of the Community Organization based at Boston Massachusetts on the facebook account One Million Filipinos Against Casino in Boracay.
I am only quoting three of the many opposition statements, thus : “For the last 2 decades, we have seen the pristine island of Boracay degrade. To make things worse, there are plans to set up 3 or more casinos in Boracay. We already know the social implications of having a Casino within residential areas. Though this effort is about uniting a million voices to stop this travesty, it is also a trumpet call to warn the politicians and businessmen that the people are watching and listening. We will not let our beautiful land be raped for some short terms financial gain. It stops now. Let our voices be heard!”
“To unite one million voices shouting : No Casinos in Boracay.
“Casino would be sealing Boracay’s fate to complete degradation. There is still a chance to rehabilitate the situation in Boracay. Time to act now. Please invite your friends to this page. We have a long way to go but with God’s help we will be a voice to be heard.”
“There are millions of Filipinos against the opening of casinos in Boracay. Please help us stop the abuse of both the people and the island. If we can’t take care of this small 7km island, how can we take care of the rest of 7,000 islands. For whatever is given to us, we will be held accountable by God.”
Amidst stiff opposition by Boracay residents and the Diocese of Kalibo, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) twice put aside the plan to establish a casino in Boracay notwithstanding the same position now aired by Pagcor, nay, Sangguniang Bayan of Malay, that earnings could help in the easy financing of development projects on the island tourist destination.
It was on August 31, 2003 when PAGCOR set aside the plan when the former president categorically declared that she was against it.
As a matter of recollection, then Kalibo Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes in his December 10, 2002 letter to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo with attached letters from parish priests and member of the pastoral councils in the Diocese of Aklan sought the president to stop the plan to put up a casino citing the harmful effects of the proposed casino.
Reyes stressed in his October 22, 2002 pastoral letter that casinos are the cause of the impoverishment and breaking up of families. “Casino promote enslavement or addiction to the passion of gambling. They weaken the moral strength of people”, Reyes emphasized.
Reyes added that Boracay is God’s gift to Aklan and the whole world. “Until now it is a family resort frequented and enjoyed by all. It is still wholesome. Let us help at that way”. Reyes concluded.
When the plans to put up casino in Boracay again surfaced in 2008, Kalibo Bishop Jose Romeo Lazo rejected the plan again.
Lazo stressed that Boracay is a natural treasure of the Aklanons and the Filipino people. “We are for a family-oriented and wholesome island resort and we therefore want a drug-free and gambling-free Boracay”, Lazo added.
The 2008 plan of Pagcor again failed. This time, plan is being resuscitated with the help of Malay’s Sangguniang Bayan.
Business organizations in Boracay, specifically the Boracay Foundation, Inc. (BFI) had declared that it is opposed to the putting up of a casino in Boracay.
An email sent me by a friend from New Jersey, USA had stated that the casino proposal is being opposed in the USA. While he did not specify whether the opposition came from Aklanons in the Unites States, he requested me to see and read certain opposition statements of the Community Organization based at Boston Massachusetts on the facebook account One Million Filipinos Against Casino in Boracay.
I am only quoting three of the many opposition statements, thus : “For the last 2 decades, we have seen the pristine island of Boracay degrade. To make things worse, there are plans to set up 3 or more casinos in Boracay. We already know the social implications of having a Casino within residential areas. Though this effort is about uniting a million voices to stop this travesty, it is also a trumpet call to warn the politicians and businessmen that the people are watching and listening. We will not let our beautiful land be raped for some short terms financial gain. It stops now. Let our voices be heard!”
“To unite one million voices shouting : No Casinos in Boracay.
“Casino would be sealing Boracay’s fate to complete degradation. There is still a chance to rehabilitate the situation in Boracay. Time to act now. Please invite your friends to this page. We have a long way to go but with God’s help we will be a voice to be heard.”
“There are millions of Filipinos against the opening of casinos in Boracay. Please help us stop the abuse of both the people and the island. If we can’t take care of this small 7km island, how can we take care of the rest of 7,000 islands. For whatever is given to us, we will be held accountable by God.”
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Aklan’s Buruanga town to launch week-long local festival
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan–- The municipality of Buruanga in Aklan is slated to launch its own week-long festival dubbed as "Panagat Festival" that will commence on May 2.
Ariel Abriam, president of the Philippine chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay, said that he has been extending support to the municipality in drawing up with various events to come up with a very festive activity.
The festival will kick off with the "Bagtas" or a unity walk starting from Brgy. Mayapay, Buruanga to the Buruanga Sunset Plaza; "Hampang Kitahanon" or a friendly sports competition among local government employees, Sangguniang Kabataan, barangay councils, Department of Education (DepEd) family.
A biking competition will be held May 3-5 starting from Nabas town to Caticlan; Malay to Poblacion Buruanga and heading towards Barangay Tag-Osip Buruanga, Aklan.
A series of sports activities such as the Invitational Football Competition, Invitational Volleyball Competition (Men and Women); and an Invitational Arnis Competition will also be held.
A boat raising contest using "layag" or sail; fishing contest using rod (hook and line) where the one who gets the biggest catch wins; fish dressing contest and a grand reunions of Buruanga residents to be sponsored by the Municipal Tourism Council are slated on May 6.
There will also be a showcase of barangay-based on May 7 where spectators will see the parade of floats and dancers in uniform by each participating barangay. After which, a final presentation of the festival dance at the Sunset Plaza will be held.
"There will be also be the Ariel's Cup for the six kilometers paddle boat raising/bugsay regatta open competition. A one man and two man boat raising will be held," Abriam said.
A coronation of Mutya ng Buruanga and Grand Binayle will be sponsored by the local government unit headed by Mayor Quezon Labindao in the evening of May 7.
Buruanga residents are expected to see the live telecast of the fight between Manny Pacquiao and Shane Mosley while enjoying a buffet lunch at the plaza after the thanksgiving mass on May 8. After the anticipated fight parlor games for children will be held in the afternoon.
"The first festival will culminate through a non-stop merrymaking at the plaza to be sponsored by the Association of Barangay Council and the Sangguniang Kabataan in coordination with the Philippine National Police," Abriam said.
Ariel Abriam, president of the Philippine chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay, said that he has been extending support to the municipality in drawing up with various events to come up with a very festive activity.
The festival will kick off with the "Bagtas" or a unity walk starting from Brgy. Mayapay, Buruanga to the Buruanga Sunset Plaza; "Hampang Kitahanon" or a friendly sports competition among local government employees, Sangguniang Kabataan, barangay councils, Department of Education (DepEd) family.
A biking competition will be held May 3-5 starting from Nabas town to Caticlan; Malay to Poblacion Buruanga and heading towards Barangay Tag-Osip Buruanga, Aklan.
A series of sports activities such as the Invitational Football Competition, Invitational Volleyball Competition (Men and Women); and an Invitational Arnis Competition will also be held.
A boat raising contest using "layag" or sail; fishing contest using rod (hook and line) where the one who gets the biggest catch wins; fish dressing contest and a grand reunions of Buruanga residents to be sponsored by the Municipal Tourism Council are slated on May 6.
There will also be a showcase of barangay-based on May 7 where spectators will see the parade of floats and dancers in uniform by each participating barangay. After which, a final presentation of the festival dance at the Sunset Plaza will be held.
"There will be also be the Ariel's Cup for the six kilometers paddle boat raising/bugsay regatta open competition. A one man and two man boat raising will be held," Abriam said.
A coronation of Mutya ng Buruanga and Grand Binayle will be sponsored by the local government unit headed by Mayor Quezon Labindao in the evening of May 7.
Buruanga residents are expected to see the live telecast of the fight between Manny Pacquiao and Shane Mosley while enjoying a buffet lunch at the plaza after the thanksgiving mass on May 8. After the anticipated fight parlor games for children will be held in the afternoon.
"The first festival will culminate through a non-stop merrymaking at the plaza to be sponsored by the Association of Barangay Council and the Sangguniang Kabataan in coordination with the Philippine National Police," Abriam said.
PDEA to orient gov’t execs on drug woes
BORACAY — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) will brief officials of the provincial government on the prevailing illegal drug problems in Aklan, at the Infant Jesus Academy in Kalibo town on April 15.
According to the PDEA, the problem on illegal drugs thrives in this resort island.
Statistics on the said case is yet to be presented in the forthcoming forum.
Aside from government leaders, members of the media, stakeholders and representatives of the different sectors are expected to participate in the briefing.
Last week, PDEA, in cooperation with policemen here, have identified three suspected drug pushers.
One of them was Allan Chavez Dekiko, a 32-year-old tattoo artist from Caloocan City, who was arrested in a buy-bust operation.
The arresting policemen seized from him five transparent plastic sachets of suspected shabu and marked money.
While Dekiko denied he was peddling illegal drugs, he was charged with possession of illegal drugs.
Authorities did not reveal the names of the other two identified suspects pending police investigation.
But they said one of the two has escaped police dragnet.
According to the PDEA, the problem on illegal drugs thrives in this resort island.
Statistics on the said case is yet to be presented in the forthcoming forum.
Aside from government leaders, members of the media, stakeholders and representatives of the different sectors are expected to participate in the briefing.
Last week, PDEA, in cooperation with policemen here, have identified three suspected drug pushers.
One of them was Allan Chavez Dekiko, a 32-year-old tattoo artist from Caloocan City, who was arrested in a buy-bust operation.
The arresting policemen seized from him five transparent plastic sachets of suspected shabu and marked money.
While Dekiko denied he was peddling illegal drugs, he was charged with possession of illegal drugs.
Authorities did not reveal the names of the other two identified suspects pending police investigation.
But they said one of the two has escaped police dragnet.
Experts give go signal for a reclamation project in Caticlan
BORACAY ISLAND, Malay, Aklan-- The president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay (PCCI-Boracay) welcomed the move of the University of the Philippines-Marine Environmental Resources Foundation Incorporated to have a 2.6- hectare reclamation project in Barangay Caticlan, Malay Aklan.
Ariel Abriam, PCCI-Boracay president, said that he recently met with Dr. Cesar Villanoy of the UP-Marine Science, former Congressman Allen Quimpo and several provincial government officials to discuss with experts the final report on the study on possible environment hazards of the reclamation project.
"It is good that Dr. Villanoy had given a strong stand on the controversial reclamation project and that they are now openly endorsing it," said Abriam.
For almost a year, the Malay local government and some private individuals in Boracay have strongly opposed the project. Because of the opposition, the Department of Tourism (DOT) commissioned the UP-Marine Science to study the environmental impact of the project.
Abriam said that the construction of the reclamation project is timely on the declaration of the Trip Advisor that Boracay Island is the second best beach in the world. The Trip Advisor is the world’s largest travel site.
"We need more facilities for Boracay and that the reclamation project is a welcome development,” he said.
Ariel Abriam, PCCI-Boracay president, said that he recently met with Dr. Cesar Villanoy of the UP-Marine Science, former Congressman Allen Quimpo and several provincial government officials to discuss with experts the final report on the study on possible environment hazards of the reclamation project.
"It is good that Dr. Villanoy had given a strong stand on the controversial reclamation project and that they are now openly endorsing it," said Abriam.
For almost a year, the Malay local government and some private individuals in Boracay have strongly opposed the project. Because of the opposition, the Department of Tourism (DOT) commissioned the UP-Marine Science to study the environmental impact of the project.
Abriam said that the construction of the reclamation project is timely on the declaration of the Trip Advisor that Boracay Island is the second best beach in the world. The Trip Advisor is the world’s largest travel site.
"We need more facilities for Boracay and that the reclamation project is a welcome development,” he said.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Malay mayor: No getting of white sand in Boracay
BORACAY — Again, the office of Malay Mayor John Yap urged both foreign and local tourists not to quarry white sand in this resort island, even a handful.
This was after scientists recently called on the preservation of the white sand along beaches here, for which this resort island has been famous in the world.
Yap’s environment coordinator Elena Brugger said aside from prohibiting white sand quarrying, the Yap administration has also disallowed one of the tourist attractions here — white sand castle making.
Experts from the University of the Philippines Marine Sciences said “coral reefs cover 10–15 percent of this resort island, so we are alarmed of the continuous environmental degradation,” according to Brugger.
“Already, many of the beaches in Boracay are suffering from the beach erosion also because of climate change,” she said.
White sand quarrying and white sand castle making destroys the contour of the beaches, the scientists said.
The municipal government of Malay is also studying the possible regulation of water sports activities here.
“The local government wanted to preserve the natural beauty of Boracay. We hope tourists would cooperate so the younger generation will still appreciate this resort island,” said Brugger./
This was after scientists recently called on the preservation of the white sand along beaches here, for which this resort island has been famous in the world.
Yap’s environment coordinator Elena Brugger said aside from prohibiting white sand quarrying, the Yap administration has also disallowed one of the tourist attractions here — white sand castle making.
Experts from the University of the Philippines Marine Sciences said “coral reefs cover 10–15 percent of this resort island, so we are alarmed of the continuous environmental degradation,” according to Brugger.
“Already, many of the beaches in Boracay are suffering from the beach erosion also because of climate change,” she said.
White sand quarrying and white sand castle making destroys the contour of the beaches, the scientists said.
The municipal government of Malay is also studying the possible regulation of water sports activities here.
“The local government wanted to preserve the natural beauty of Boracay. We hope tourists would cooperate so the younger generation will still appreciate this resort island,” said Brugger./
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Aklan beauty queen to represent PHL to Miss Asia Pacific pageant
A beauty queen from this province will represent the Philippines to the Miss Asia Pacific World beauty pageant.
Michelle Martha Braun, 21, who won the Miss Philippines-Earth Air in 2009, is wishing her countrymen's support and vote at the http://www.missasiapacific.tv website.
The Miss Asia Pacific International is the first and oldest beauty pageant in Asia. It began as a regional pageant in 1968, known as the Miss Asia Quest. Participating countries came from Asia and Oceania.
In 1985, the pageant changed its name to the Miss Asia Pacific Quest, to encompass countries not just in the Asian and Oceania region, but those of North, Central and South America with borders touching the Pacific Ocean.
In 2008, however, the annual holding of the beauty pageant was canceled due to lack of sponsors, participants and popularity.
This year, the prestigious beauty pageant will be held in the Floating Island in Seoul, Korea on June 11 with around 70 countries reportedly joining the event.
Braun, from New Washington, Aklan, graduated from the Aklan Catholic College here and currently works as a fashion model. An environmentalist, one of her advocacy is the preservation of Boracay Island.
“My secrets in winning beauty pageants in the past are prayers, determination and projecting my best,” Braun said.
Operation vs illegal activities in Boracay intensified
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan— The Task Force Boracay has intensified its operation against illegal drugs on this resort island after receiving reports from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on the alleged lucrative illegal trade among drug pushers and users here.
PDEA recently arrested in Kalibo, Aklan a suspected drug pusher who confessed that illegal drugs come to this resort island from Manila through the use of a forwarding service.
For several years, the PDEA has been receiving intelligence reports that drug syndicates are using forwarding services to transport illegal drugs here. The agency admits however that it faces difficulty in effectively tracing suspects.
PDEA, thus, is currently coordinating with the Philippine Postal Corporation (PPC) in drawing up a Memorandum of Agreement (MIA) to ensure that the trade of illegal drugs could not be transmitted through parcel services.
Niven Maquirang, Caticlan Jetty Port administrator and a member of said Task Force, underlined that henceforth, all packages being delivered to this resort island will be strictly be inspected. The Caticlan Jetty port is the key entry and exit points of tourists coming to and from this resort island.
"A service desk will also be set up in Caticlan to serve as assistance center for tourists coming to Boracay," Maquirang said.
The Task Force is composed of the Aklan provincial government, the Malay government, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard among other entities.
PDEA recently arrested in Kalibo, Aklan a suspected drug pusher who confessed that illegal drugs come to this resort island from Manila through the use of a forwarding service.
For several years, the PDEA has been receiving intelligence reports that drug syndicates are using forwarding services to transport illegal drugs here. The agency admits however that it faces difficulty in effectively tracing suspects.
PDEA, thus, is currently coordinating with the Philippine Postal Corporation (PPC) in drawing up a Memorandum of Agreement (MIA) to ensure that the trade of illegal drugs could not be transmitted through parcel services.
Niven Maquirang, Caticlan Jetty Port administrator and a member of said Task Force, underlined that henceforth, all packages being delivered to this resort island will be strictly be inspected. The Caticlan Jetty port is the key entry and exit points of tourists coming to and from this resort island.
"A service desk will also be set up in Caticlan to serve as assistance center for tourists coming to Boracay," Maquirang said.
The Task Force is composed of the Aklan provincial government, the Malay government, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard among other entities.
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