Dry run for Boracay reopening set for October 15

The government is set to conduct a dry run of Boracay's reopening on October 15 to find out what needs to be done before the popular island destination is opened again for tourists on October 26.

In a report on Unang Balita on Thursday, Environment Undersecretary Benny Antiporda said many establishments have yet to fully comply with health and environmental standards for the island's upkeep.

"Alam po natin yung excitement na nasa dibdib nila, but sorry to say we give the environment the number one priority rather than the economic side of it," Antiporda said.

Only 30 percent of the establishments in Borcay will be allowed to operate in October as they complied with the DENR's environmental requirements.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat estimated that "only about 3,000 to 5,000 rooms will be open."

Aside from this, curfew and guest limits will be imposed to preserve conservation efforts and change the island's "party" image.

Meanwhile, Boracay workers are urged to claim their six-month compensation for the island's shutdown before operations resume. —Rie Takumi/KBK, GMA News