Boracay stakeholders commit to implement sustainable practices

Some 30 business stakeholders in Boracay have pledged their commitment to immediately implement sustainable practices, in efforts to preserve the newly rehabilitated island.

In an emailed statement, Ayala-led Globe Telecom Inc. said it, together with Save Philippine Seas (SPS), recently facilitated a marine biodiversity workshop for Boracay stakeholders, including hotel and establishment owners.

According to Globe, participants of the workshop committed to implement their learnings which include offering refillable containers, encouraging guests to bring reusable shopping bags and utensils, and avoiding the use of all single-use plastics such as straws.

"Boracay Island is a Philippine pride. All stakeholders in Boracay have a responsibility to preserve its pristine beauty. One truly impactful way of achieving this is by actively participating in its conservation," said Yolanda Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and SVP for Corporate Communications.

Among the establishments that committed to implement sustainable practices were:

• Gr8 Art Bar
• Aloha Villas
• Lemon Cafe
• Green Pirates
• Greenyard Inn
• Diniview Villas
• The Lind Hotel
• Altabriza Resort
• Tirta Spa Boracay
• Hangin Kite Resort
• Jony’s Beach Resort
• Boracay Balcony Inn
• Boracay Mahal Sailing
• Boracay Foundation Inc.
• Boracay Island Activities
• Pinnacle Resort and Villas
• Melinda’s Garden Resort
• Discovery Shores Boracay
• Malay Local Government Unit
• Mandala Spa and Resort Villas
• Progear International Group Inc.
• Sundown Resort and Restaurant
• Boracay Travellers' / Boracay Art District

Following its reopening in October, tourist arrivals in the island have been limited to only 6,405 per day, as only 19,000 tourists will be allowed in Boracay at any given time.

President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the six-month closure of Boracay island to make way for its rehabilitation starting April 26.

The six-month rehabilitation of the island resort was recommended by the DENR, the DOT, and the DILG last month after Duterte threatened to close down the island after he described the tourist destination as a "cesspool." — Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/RSJ/VDS, GMA News