A small island in Western Visayas region of the Philippines. Apart from its white sand beaches, Boracay is also famous for being one of the world’s top destinations for relaxation and fun.
I still remember during my childhood days (Born and raised in Mindanao) how I see BORACAY as haven of perfection. Since then, I promised to myself to seize the opportunity and must visit this tropical paradise of the west – Time has come, I was mesmerized.
Years gone by, months after months, the island I perceived as haven of perfection was raped, murdered by hundred times by irresponsible tourists, multi-million luxury hotel investments cut down trees, sewage stuck with harmful chemicals and toxic wastes that goes directly to the opening of the sea — This is how commercialization affects our mother nature.
As I read thru some news pages, mixed reactions flooded their timeline dealing issues of the temporary closure of BORACAY for less than a year from the effective date — to heal the wounded jewel of Philippine tourism and implement its full rehabilitation.
Boracay current status:
Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte already place the island under a state of calamity and close it for up to a year to solve the water pollution, traffic congestion, garbage problems and illegal constructions plaguing the world-famous tourist destination.
This is my own personal view on the Effects of temporary closure:
1. Devastated locals who depend on beach-loving tourists for their livelihood showing great sadness for their lost of income/revenue.
2. Risk of hunger
3. Children might stop going to school for lack of financial assistance to support for their everyday school expense.
4. Hotel owners at risk of bankruptcy
5. Hotel In-house staff obliged to go back to their hometown to find an alternative way of living.
6. Performers who’s passion in entertaining locals and international tourist will have to pause for a break until their home stage is ready to light up and lime lights.
7. Tourists who plan ahead their vacation and spent thousands for flight and accommodation – worst part, those hard-work and overtime seem to be gone in to waste.
With all these realistic possibilities, I leave you with this question;
Do think the government’s action is for the common good ?
What are your thoughts ?