Arrival of tourists in Boracay uninterrupted by demolition of illegal structures

Tourists continued to arrive in Boracay despite the recent order to demolish illegal structures.

According to a report on Unang Balita by Jam Sisante on Wednesday, more tourists are expected to arrive on the eve of Maundy Thursday in time for the Holy Week break.

As of Wednesday morning, people were still engaging in water activities such as kite surfing.

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu reminded property owners to demolish their establishments if they violated the 25+5 meters no-build zone.

Some property owners requested for an extension, while a few volunteered to demolish their own structures.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources also ordered the demolition of some properties on Bulabog Beach to make way for an alternate road for vehicles.

Almost 30,000 workers will lose their jobs should President Rodrigo Duterte opt to implement the recommendation of the DENR, Department of Tourism, and Department of the Interior and Local Government to close down the popular tourist destination for six months.

The employees are hoping for divine intervention to happen so that the closure of the whole island, which they said is their main source of income, will not push through.

Rehabilitation efforts began in February after Duterte called the country's most popular tourist spot a "cesspool."

Duterte has stated that he is inclined to follow the recommendation but has yet to issue a final and official order. —Jannielyn Ann Bigtas/KG, GMA News