DILG chief opposes construction of casino-resort in Boracay

Interior and Local Government officer-in-charge Eduardo Año has expressed his opposition to the plan to build a casino-resort in Boracay, saying that concerned agencies were not consulted over it.

"I think the timing is not right or is not correct," Año said in an interview on CNN Philippines. "Actually, we were not consulted with and my personal stand, I do not agree that a casino should be placed there." 

"I've been to several resorts in other countries, wala naman akong nakitang casino doon so sana 'wag na lang sa Boracay, but hindi pa naman napag-usapan 'yon ng inter-agency task force, we are focusing on rehabilitating and how to clean up Boracay," he added.

PAGCOR chair Andrea Domingo had earlier said the plan to build a $500-million integrated casino-resort in Boracay by Macau casino operator Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd. will proceed despite the island's impending closure and rehabilitation.

Even Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu had acknowledged that constructing a casino in a 23-hectare property on the island contradicted their rehabilitation efforts.

The Departments of Environment and Natural Resources, Interior and Local Government, and Tourism have recommended to President Rodrigo Duterte the closure of Boracay for six months effective April 26.

This came in even after presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said that the possible closure would not take place during the peak season or summer break.

The recommendation has already been sent to the Office of the President, but Año said they are not sure when the decision will be released.

"I'm not sure kung kailan, I hope within the week ay i-announce ng ating Presidente 'yung decision niya para magkaroon na tayo ng notice at masimulan na kaagad natin yung dapat aayusin dito sa Boracay," he said.

Asked on whether Duterte is inclined on supporting their recommendation,  Año answered in affirmative. "I think he would support our recommendation, marami kasing aayusin sa Boracay," he said.

Duterte has described Boracay a "cesspool," a statement that triggered a crackdown on establishments for violations of environmental laws and policies.

Stakeholders have voiced their concerns that closing the island for up to one year could result in at least P56 billion in foregone revenues, and render as much as 36,000 people jobless.

Instead of the planned six-month full closure of the island, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry has suggested a three-phased closure, describing it as a "win-win" solution. —Marlly Rome Bondoc/KBK, GMA News