Holy Week vacationers start arriving in Boracay

Boracay saw a marked increase in visitor arrivals on Wednesday ahead of the start of the Holy Week long weekend, and the volume is expected to double on Thursday.

According to a report by GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas' John Sala on 24 Oras, the local government of Malay, Aklan expects daily visitor arrivals to reach 5,000 to 6,000 through Saturday.

With most travel restrictions now lifted, the requirements for tourists heading to the world-famous resort island have narrowed to two items.

“For all the tourists, kung pwede po ay i-ready na nila agad 'yung mga documents. Ang hinahanap lang po is hotel bookings from an accredited hotel ng [Department of Tourism], at saka IDs. Dalawa lang po 'yung hahanapin sa kanila," said Caticlan Jetty Port special operations officer Jeane Pontero. "And we also have reminders to secure your belongings."

In response to the tourist influx, security forces and emergency responders from various government agencies including the Malay Police, the Malay MDRRMO, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine Coast Guard are on standby, especially in populated areas.

The local government also reminds establishments and revelers that parties and loud music are not allowed from 6 p.m. on Good Friday until 6 a.m. on Black Saturday.

Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Barangay Balabag will also hold a Mass and procession for Holy Week. — BM, GMA Integrated News