Five sacks of white sand and pebbles confiscated at Caticlan Airport

Personnel of the Caticlan Airport in nearby Malay, Aklan reported of confiscating a total of five sacks of white sand and pebbles coming from this resort island.

Rodito Absalon, chief deputy officer of the Municipal Auxiliary Police (MAP), said that tourists are prohibited from transporting white sand as souvenirs.

White sand has been confiscated from a number of tourists at the airport.

"Some of them were placed in bottles while some were hidden in their bags. We have to return the items to the beach to sustain the environment of Boracay," Absalon said.

The MAP official said they continue to remind tourists not to try bringing home white sand as this will be confiscated.

ASEAN chief justices in Boracay on 2015

This resort island is being considered as the venue for the conference of the chief justices of the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for the year 2015.

Atty. Selwyn Ibaretta, Aklan provincial administrator, on Thursday said in an interview that the Philippine Supreme Court is currently starting preparations for the said big event.

The said meeting is scheduled on February 5-8, 2015. This is also in coordination with the ASEAN Law Association (ALA).

Ibaretta recently represented Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores in a close door inter-agency coordination meeting at the Supreme Court-Manila for the proposed 2015 convention. The said meeting was headed by SC Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, the Department of Tourism, the local government of Malay and a representative from the Kalibo Regional Trial Court.

"The meeting is mainly focused on the possible activities of the chief justices once they arrived in this resort island for the 2015 meeting. Currently the possible activities are being finalized together with the DOT," said Ibaretta.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is currently promoting Boracay as one of the convention hubs in the country.

Experts tests 'Pearl of the King' in Boracay

Pearl experts coming from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) based in Bangkok, Thailand had officially conducted testing for the 'Pearl of the King' in Crown Regency Resort here.

English national Nicolas Sturman, manager on pearl identification of the GIA, said they came to test the pearl upon the invitation of the management of the resort.

The GIA has conducted the measure as one of the requirements of the Guinness Book of World Record to consider the pearl as the largest in the world.

The said resort is owned by Chinese- Filipino chairman Richard King.

"So far, we still need to do more testing to determine whether it is a pearl or a shell. No matter what, we still consider it as the largest in the world," said Sturman.

The current Guinness Book of World Record Holder is known as the 'Pearl of Allah' which weigh around six kilos. The 'Pearl of the King' weighs around 8.90 kilos based on the actual measurement of the GIA.

Both 'Pearl of Allah' and the 'Pearl of the King' were recovered in the deep seas of Palawan. The said pearl came from the tridacna family.

"I am sure that science still needs to do more research on the seas of Palawan as we received reports that it has large tridacna pearls," he said.

Diving experts found blue coral possibly endemic in Boracay

Diving experts in this resort island have expressed amazement to the so-called blue acropora as they are now considering the fact that it is only endemic to this resort island.

Jojo Rodriguez of the Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative (SPC) said that they have been diving to different diving destinations in the country but they could not find similar coral species elsewhere.

The Acropora (Acropora sp) are found in a variety of shapes but are most commonly seen in the traditional elongated branch form. It is a hermatypic (reef-building) coral that forms large structures in the wild. It requires high lighting levels and high water flow.

"We had found some blue acropora. Others are a natural recruit while some are asexually reproduced,"said Rodriguez, adding that they still continue to explore possibilities that similar blue Acropora can be found in other diving sites.

The SPC had partnered with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the so-called "Filipinovation" together with other sectors to build highly resilient corals in Boracay, Camiguin, Zamboanga and Subic.

In Zamboanga, the SPC had also partnered with the Western Command and Mega Sardines to assist in the rehabilitation and re-establishment of its tourism industry.

"Prior to the crisis, Zamboanga had a growth rate of 12 percent the highest in the Philippines. The task force will rehabilitate the damaged coral reefs of the top tourists destination- the pink island of Sta. Cruz," said Rodriguez.

Tsinoy owns largest pearl in the world

A Chinese Filipino (Chinoy) resort owner in this island is also the owner of what will be considered as the largest pearl in the world.

In an interview Monday, Richard King, chairman of the Crown Regency Hotel, said that a group of gemologists from the Guinness Book of World Records is expected to arrive here Dec.19-20 to formally inspect the said pearl he calls as the "Pearl of the Kings."

Guinness currently recognizes the six-kilo "Pearl of Allah" now in the United States as the largest pearl in the world.

"Based on our initial measurement, the "Pearl of the Kings" weighs around nine kilos and we are confident that we could be certified by the Guinness Book of World Records," King said.

He added that he inherited the pearl from his grandfather. It reportedly came from the waters of Palawan like the "Pearl of Allah."

Reports said that the "Pearl of Allah" also known as the "Pearl of Lao Tzu" was given by a Muslim chieftain in the 70s and was found by a diver at Brookes Point, Palawan.

"We have now decided to display the "Pearl of the Kings" at the oceanarium park in the Crown Regency Hotel as one of its attractions.

"Aside from the pearl, our oceanarium also boasts of having the longest oceanarium tunnel in the Philippines, having 30 meters length," King said.

The "Pearl of Kings" although big is not considered as a non-nacreous pearl having no iridiscence or sheen; thus it is not considered a gem stone.

It is said to have come from a giant clam which produces the so-called tridacna pearl.

2 hawksbill turtles released back to sea in Boracay

A boatman in this resort island surrendered a pair of hawksbill turtle to the officials of the Malay Agriculture Office (MAO) on Tuesday.

Felex Balquin, marine biologist of MAO, said the boatman has been using the two turtles as part of his attractions during his island hopping activities in Boracay.

"The boatman had surrendered the said hawksbill which is considered endangered after days of negotiations with him. Our office decided not to file charges against him because he positively coordinated," said Balquin.

One of the turtles measure 31 centimeters in length and 20 centimeters in width while the other one is 27 centimeters in length and 22 centimeters wide.

"We returned to the shore the two sea turtles after documentation and checking their health," said Balquin.

Business sector vows more help for Boracay Police

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay (PCCI-Boracay) vows more support to the Philippine National Police (PNP) here to ensure security in this resort island in the coming months.

Already, the PCCI-Boracay led by president Ariel Abriam turned over one motorcycle to the Boracay PNP in a turn- over ceremony held at the Boracay Tourists Action Center on Monday following flag ceremony of the Boracay Action Group in Barangay Balabag.

The motorcycle was requested by the PCCI-Boracay through a letter sent to the national PNP headquarter in Camp Crame.

"We have requested a motorcycle to enable policemen to easily respond during emergencies. We will continue to lobby for additional motorcycles," said Abriam.

Aside from the motorcycle, PCCI-Boracay is also committed to lobby for a patrol boat for the Philippine Coast Guard in this resort island through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

The PCCI-Boracay has been considered as one of the best chamber of commerce organizations by the PCCI national leadership this year.

Malay town restricts renewal of business permits for 2014

The local government of Malay announced Wednesday that it will not anymore entertain those establishments that refused to cooperate in the Task Force: Boracay Redevelopment this year.

Glen Sacapano, Boracay Island administrator, said that he had issued the community advisory Tuesday to immediately inform the concerned parties.

"Please be informed that beginning January 2, 2014 in line with the Executive Order No 014 series of 2013, the Municipality of Malay will strictly regulate the renewal of all business permits for the year 2014.

"Establishments that have received Notices of Violations and have not processed their compliance as evidenced by a certificate will no longer be allowed to renew their business permits," said Sacapano.

This is also true to those who do not have building permits and occupancy permits and were not allowed to apply.

The local government together with the Department of Tourism had recently issued the Certificate of Compliance to stakeholders in this resort island who followed the 25+5 meter rule of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Other resorts questioned the said government policy at the local courts.

Sacapano said that other resorts should immediately start processing their respective requirements including the sanitary permits and health cards to avoid delay on the renewal.

Reefbuds in Boracay survive 'Yolanda'

The reefbuds project in this resort island survived the strong onslaught of the typhoon 'Yolanda' and will continue to provide hope in restoring coral reefs here.

Jojo Rodriguez of the Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative (SPC) said that they have conducted assessment over the weekend on the survival of reefbuds project from the super typhoon.

The reefbuds project was funded under the assistance of Senator Loren Legarda, Department of Science and Technology and the Globe Network, among other partners.

It aims to restore damages on coral reefs under the 'Code:Blue Project.'

"At least 80-90 percent of our reefbuds project in Boracay survived the typhoon. However, all coral nursery units have been badly damaged and need constant repairs.

"The good news is our natural recruits increases by 60-80 percent and we documented growth of 0.5 inch to 2-4 inches. We also noted an increase of fish biomass in the area," Rodriguez said.

Aside from Boracay, the SPC, too, has a similar project in the province of Camiguin.

For her part, Virna Salac of the DOST Central Office in a telephone interview said that they are planning to expand the 'Filipinovation' project in other provinces in the country.

"Because of the success of the project, the DOST is planning to expand it in Coron, Zamboanga, Subic, La Union and Mactan. We will still continue the project in Boracay and Camiguin," said Salac.

Foreign tourist arrivals increasing in Boracay

Foreign nationals fill the gap of tourists coming to this resort island as the country is hands full helping the victims of typhoon 'Yolanda.'

Tim Ticar of the Department of Tourism-Boracay said that Chinese nationals had already overtaken the South Koreans, the former leading foreign visitors for this month of November.

The DoT however admitted that Boracay experienced low turn out of tourists this year compared to the same period last year.

DoT figures revealed that in November 2012, Boracay registered 86,090 foreign and local tourists. This year's November data indicate that it has only reached 64, 092.

"We still have few days left before the month of November ends and we hope to gather more tourists to surpass that of last year's figure," Ticar said.

Of the current number, 11, 298 of them were Chinese tourists while the Koreans reached 10, 685.

"We have a 16-percent upset for this month for our Boracay tourism industry but what is important is our tourism is still healthy," said Ticar.

Some resorts had also reported booking cancellations because of the onslaught of typhoon 'Yolanda,' he said.

AKELCO starts rotational brownouts for Aklan, Boracay

The Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) has started implementing a rotation scheme for both residential and commercial establishments here to ensure providing the needed electricity in the province.

AKELCO officials said that they have to implement the power rotation scheme as electricity in the province is still limited because of the devastation by typhoon 'Yolanda.'

Currently, the AKELCO gets its source of electricity from the Global Business Power Corporation (GBPC) which has a diesel power production plant in Nabas and New Washington, Aklan.

The GBPC plant has been a temporary source of electricity as the province is still awaiting from the National Grid Power Corporation (NGCP) to be connected from the usual supply coming from the Visayas Grid. The power grid has been damaged by the super typhoon 'Yolanda.'

GBPC officials earlier promised to restore the electricity in different towns in the Visayas region before Christmas.

Because AKELCO has to rely on the production of the GBPC, it announced that electricity rate may reach P13.87 per kilowatthour for member consumers. The AKELCO has been calling on the consumers to conserve electricity.

The AKELCO is also shutting down electricity from 1 o'clock in the morning to 5 o'clock in the afternoon daily as part of its conservation measure.

Missing Estonian tourist found in Boracay

Another tourist who went missing during the onslaught of typhoon 'Yolanda' was found in this resort island, according to the Department of Tourism (DoT).

This developed after the Boracay Redevelopment Task Force reported to the DoT that they had located Lasse Hanman, 30, Estonian national, in the island. Hanman was considered missing based on the reports submitted to the DoT by the consulate of the Republic of Estonia.

Hanman was the seventh foreign national reportedly found by the DoT so far. The DoT reported at least 47 foreign tourists reported missing all over the country when typhoon Yolanda ravaged Visayas and Mindanao regions recently.

Earlier, at least six Swedish national who were earlier reported missing were later located in this resort island.

Aside from Boracay, the DoT is now trying to find the other "missing" foreign nationals in other tourism destinations such as Cebu, Palawan, among others.

Operatives of the Boracay Tourists Action Center of the Philippine National Police and the Boracay Redevelopment Task Force had helped in finding the missing foreign tourists.

Boracay continues to be tourism attraction

This resort island continues to become a top tourism drawer despite the onslaught of super typhoon Yolanda over the weekend.

Tim Ticar of the Department of Tourism-Boracay said that at least 6,0000 foreign and local tourists were stranded at the resort island when the typhoon struck.

"So far we received no complaint from any tourist a manifestation that local government did their job well in disaster management. I believe the tourists understood what happened and so Boracay continuously operates as a tourism destination," Ticar said.

Although disaster officials reached the target of the zero casualty for Boracay, the typhoon damaged part of the Tambisaan port, one of the vital infrastructures in this resort island.

Ticar said that strong waves brought by the typhoon initially damaged the layout of the port.

The Tambisaan pier is being used as entry and exit points by the tourists during "habagat (southwest monsoon)".

Caticlan Jetty Port now closed to tourists

The Caticlan Jetty Port considered as the gateway for tourists coming to this resort island has been declared closed in anticipation of typhoon "Yolanda".

At least three 40-seater boats are now operational to ferry to and from Caticlan the stranded passengers. Jetty port officials are not anymore accepting tourists coming from the Kalibo International Airport (KIA).

The operation of motorized vehicles has been limited as motor boat operators especially those having huge ones have already sought shelter in nearby coves and distant seas to protect their vehicles from the onslaught of the typhoon.

Because of this, passengers that may be stranded at the KIA are advised to check in at the Kalibo hotels. They are also encouraged to seek shelter at the evacuation centers in Kalibo.

PDRMMO officials also recommend that stranded passengers take immediate return flights to Manila.

Aklan gov fears storm surges in Boracay

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRMMO) is worried on the possibility of storm surges in this resort island to be brought about by typhoon "Yolanda", which is expected to strike here on Friday.

During the PDRRMO meeting Wednesday afternoon, Governor Florencio Miraflores said that based on the typhoon track, coastal communities in the province including this resort island may experience storm surges to as high as 4.5 meter.

The PDRMMO is set to convene with the local government units of the different coastal communities including Boracay on Thursday morning to discuss the worst case scenario.

Also included in the meeting were representatives from the Kalibo International Airport (KIA), Caticlan Airport and the Caticlan Jetty Port.

"I hope tourists would not push through with their planned vacation this Friday where weather condition is expected to worsen," said Miraflores.

The PDRRMO hopes to encourage tourists via KIA to stay in Kalibo, while in Caticlan to stay at the jetty port once typhoon hits the province on Friday.

More Russians seen arriving in Boracay

The Aklan Provincial Tourism Council (APTC) welcomes more Russians going to Boracay until 2014.

Roselle Ruiz from the APTC said that 130 Russians arrived at the Kalibo International Airport (KIA) last November 1. They were on board the Yakutia Airlines direct from Russia.

"The Russian chartered flights are scheduled to arrive here once in every two weeks until April 2014," said Ruiz.

Tourism officials considered this event as an opportunity since Philippines is rarely visited by the Russians flag carrier. The event was reportedly considered as "trending" by the World of Aviation Fanatics.

"It is already a big boost for the tourism industry in the province," Ruiz said.

Reports from the APTC indicate that Boracay Island has already registered 1.2 million foreign and local tourists from January to October 31 this year.

Task force enforces demolition of illegal structures in Boracay

The Task Force Boracay Redevelopment continues to enforce the demolition of illegal structures at the front beach of this resort island which started Sunday.

Task Force Chairman Glen Sacapano, representing the local government of Malay, said that the demolition was enforced after a 60-day period was given to resort owners who refused to voluntarily comply in destroying their structures at the front beach.

It was President Benigno Simeon Aquino III who ordered for the "clean up" of Boracay to ensure environmental sustainability. Also included in the task force aside from the local government were the Department of Tourism, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine National Police, Department of Interior and Local Government, among others.

Josmar Lao, one of the affected stakeholders, said consider the enforcement of the demolition as illegal pending the request for issuance of temporary restraining order by the Kalibo Regional Trial Court. The trial court has scheduled the hearing of the request for TRO on November 7.

"They must have awaited for the decision on the TRO that we requested at the RTC," said Lao, adding that the demolished structures are worth P3 million.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism distributed Certificate of Compliance (CoC) to the resort owners who complied with the requirements of the task force Tuesday.

The COC received by the resort owners will be used as proof that they are compliant with the government requirement and these will be used as tool for their easy renewal of business permit next year.

TF Boracay to enforce ‘first come, first served basis’ policy during long holiday

The Task Force Boracay will strictly enforce a “first come, first served basis” policy for both foreign and local tourists coming to the resort-island during the long weekend commemorating the All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1.
Niven Maquirang, administrator of Caticlan Jetty Port and task force member, said he met with representatives of the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, other concerned agencies, and shipping companies to discuss the preparations for the coming holiday.
"K-9 dogs have been deployed as part of the measures to ensure the safety of tourists bound for Boracay," Maquirang said.
The jetty port is also managing the entry and exit of passengers who board the roll-on, roll off vessels arriving in Caticlan.
Nov. 1, which falls on a Friday, is regular holiday in observance of the All Saints’ Day

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2 restos, 4 resorts in Boracay padlocked for underpayment of taxes

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) padlocked two Chinese restaurants and four resorts here for underpayment of taxes in the past years.

However, the BIR said the closure is only temporary as the owners have promised to pay their tax obligations.

Ordered closed under the “Oplan Kandado” campaign were the Boracay Peninsula, La Bresas de Boracay, Boracay Isle Hotel, Boracay Socorro Beach Resort, Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant, and Ge Lasi Restaurant.

The closed resorts are located at the front beach of this resort-island.

The BIR said the padlocked resorts failed to report 30 percent of their income in the previous years and their owners violated Section 17 of the Tax Code of 1997.

The padlocking of establishments Wednesday was led by BIR Deputy Commissioner Nelson Aspe.

Aspe said they are eyeing the closure of several other establishments here because of similar violations.

Boracay Island reaches 1M tourist mark early this year

-The jetty port administration in Caticlan, Malay town has revealed that this island-resort has attained one million tourists earlier this year compared to last year.

Niven Maquirang, jetty port administrator, said that from Jan. 1-Oct. 22, the overall number of registered tourists in Boracay already reached 1.141 million.

Data from the jetty port indicated that a Korean tourist was the one millionth visitor on Oct. 26.

Because of the increasing number of tourists here, the Aklan provincial government is confident of reaching its target 1.5 million tourists by year- end.

Maquirang said the number of tourists could have been higher if the Taiwanese government did not declare a travel ban to the Philippines early this year. The travel ban prompted travel operators in Taiwan to cancel their Boracay reservations.

This coming Nov. 4, the Superstar Aquarius of Star Cruises will bring to Boracay thousands of tourists coming from different parts of Asia.

Last Oct. 17, SuperStar Gemini arrived in Boracay from Xiamen, China with more than 1,200 passengers.

Drug pusher arrested in Boracay Island

A suspected drug pusher was arrested by police operatives in an entrapment operation in this resort-island Monday morning.

The suspect was identified as Jose Maria Antonio Kilayko, 41, a resident of Barangay Mandalagan, Bacolod City.

He was arrested at a resort in Sitio Cagban, Barangay Manoc Manoc.

Seized from him were P50,000 worth of suspected shabu, P1,000 entrapment money, mobile phones, and illegal drug paraphernalia.

Insp. Wilfredo Hofileña, team leader of the Aklan Police Provincial Office Intelligence Branch, said they conducted the operation in cooperation with the Boracay Tourists Assistance Center, Regional Anti- Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group, and the Aklan Provincial Public Safety Company.

"During the raid, we recovered several evidences leading to other suspected illegal drug users. Some of those names were 'familiar' to us and we will continue to investigate," Hofileña said, adding that they expect more arrests in the coming weeks.(

Man’s death mars cruise ship’s visit

 A Chinese national died as soon as an international luxury liner on a world tour docked in this island resort the other day.

Sixty-seven-year-old Xu Wen Yao of Shanghai, China, was one of the passengers of the SuperStar Gemini of the cruise ship line Star Cruises.

Xu succumbed to cardiac arrest, according to the police.

The SuperStar Gemini arrived in Boracay on Thursday morning, bringing in about 1,271 passengers, mostly Chinese nationals, and 937 crew members, including 350 Filipinos.

It came from Keelung, Taiwan. Aside from Boracay, the ship is also bound for the Philippine capital of Manila, Hong Kong, and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia.

The cruise ship was docking in the island when Xu had a cardiac arrest, police investigation said.

The medical personnel of the cruise ship applied basic life support to the Chinese national and rushed him to the Metropolitan Clinic here, police said.

Dr. Joana Dy, the attending physician, declared him dead due to a cardio-respiratory arrest.

For eight hours, tourists brought in by the SuperStar Gemini experienced Boracay through sightseeing and strolling at the white-sand beach, souvenir-hunting, and dining in fine restaurants, among others.

Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard personnel secured the anchored ship while the police ensured the safety of the passengers while they were off the cruise liner.

The visit of the SuperStar Gemini marked the start of another cruise season for Boracay.

This world-renowned island resort is expecting another cruise ship visit — that of SuperStar Aquarius — in the next few weeks.

Cooperative links Boracay, Camiguin for climate change adaptation project

The Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative (SPC) is linking two tourism destinations in the country for their advocacy on mitigating and adapting climate change.

Jojo Rodriguez of the SPC said their group is currently advocating for climate change adaptation strategy both in the island-province of Camiguin in northern Mindanao and this resort-island in the Visayas.

He said that SPC, in coordination with the municipal government of Mambajao in Camiguin, safely removed 16 illegally set fish traps in the island’s marine protected areas.

Fish traps are dropped on top of the coral reef or beside it. To recover the traps, these are towed by fishermen using long ropes across the coral reefs causing massive damage.

In Boracay, the SPC also partnered with Globe Telecom which donated a multi-cab vehicle to be used for mobilization in promoting the environmental sustainability of this resort-island.

"We are offering free use of the multi-cab for individuals or groups implementing environmental projects in Boracay," Rodriguez said.

Meanwhile, Rodriguez defended their group’s stance on the criticism of several sectors questioning their refusal to fully utilize the epoxy provided by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the coral reef conservation efforts.

"We are currently preparing for the DOST asexual reproduction program. We drilled holes on the reefbuds to accommodate coral fragments. With concrete nails and cable ties plus pre-drilled holes, there was no need for epoxy at all,” he said.

He added that it was decided that the epoxy would be used in the next planting season.

South Korean fugitive nabbed in Boracay

 A South Korean wanted for embezzling money in his country has been arrested by operatives of the Boracay Tourist Action Center here.

Kim Jinsoo was collared in this resort island for a different case, though. He failed to pay the resort where he had been staying, said PO3 Christopher Mendoza.

“As soon as he was arrested, we checked his background. We discovered that he was a fugitive in South Korea,” said Mendoza.

The policeman did not identify the resort that complained against Jinsoo but said the South Korean’s bill reached P21,000.

Jinsoo will be deported to South Korea.

When converted to Philippine peso, the money that the suspect allegedly embezzled there reached some P125 million, said Mendoza.

Park Yong Jeung, consul and police attaché of the Embassy of the Republic of South Korea, confirmed that Jinsoo faces an embezzlement case in their country.

Aklan vice guv seeks more funding for agri

Aklan Vice Gov. Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo is seeking more budget for the implementation of more agriculture programs in the province to ensure food security.

Demand for food continues to grow because this resort-island is considered a premier tourism destination, she said.

Quimpo said that she will seek an increase in the budget for agriculture from the provincial government and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during the deliberation for the 2014 budget.

"We have an increasing demand for agricultural products for Boracay and we need more funds for agriculture to cope with the shortage of food supply,” Quimpo said.

The tourism sector here currently sources fruits and vegetables from other provinces such as Iloilo, Capiz, Antique, Guimaras, and Davao.

A report of the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) for August 2013 showed that agricultural harvest in the province is limited due to bad weather condition.

Limited harvest was reported by both the farmers and fishermen in the past weeks. Aklan continues to be a net importer of cattle, hog, dressed chicken and table eggs.

However, rice supply is expected to increase in the remaining quarter of the year due to the introduction of a new seeds to the farmers.

Malay town to start construction of Boracay bridge in 2014

The municipal government of Malay, Aklan is bent on starting the construction of the Boracay bridge next year.

Officials of Malay said the proposed bridge will be built between the Tabon Port in Barangay Caticlan and Tambisaan Port in Barangay Manoc- Manoc in Boracay.

However, because of limited funding, the local government hopes to construct the bridge gradually depending on fund availability.

The plan to construct a bridge for Boracay is considered a priority project of the Municipal Planning and Development Office.

Local officials said they have already started to put structures at the Tabon Port as part of the preparation for the bridge construction.

The Tabon Port is being used as an alternative jump off from Caticlan going to Tambisaan Port during the monsoon season.

Environmental advocates and tourism officials have expressed opposition to the bridge project.

Tourist police tell visitors to be vigilant against theft

The Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) of the Philippine National Police has warned tourists and residents here to be vigilant against petty criminals.

The warning came after the Holy Rosary Parish at Barangay Balabag was robbed by unidentified men. The parish administration said the perpetrators carted away a few bills and coins from the donation box.

Insp. Fidel Gentallan, BTAC deputy police chief, said they are conducting intensive intelligence gathering and monitoring as the Christmas season approaches.

"We have already deployed police in civilian clothes and tourist marshals in strategic areas in Boracay to minimize, if not eradicate cases of theft," Gentallan said.

Despite the series of reported theft cases, the police said Boracay remains peaceful with the absence of major robbery incidents. Most of the victims of theft cases were foreigners.

"We also need the help of the residents to help us in our fight against criminals by giving us information," Gentallan added.

Boracay mourns death of businesswoman-environmentalist

The local government of Malay, Aklan, Boracay Foundation Inc. (BFI) and other stakeholders in this resort- island paid tribute to businesswoman and environmentalist Loubelle Cann who died of lung cancer recently.

Nette Aguirre-Graf said they consider Cann a great loss to their environmental advocacy.

In September 2012, Boracay environment advocate Noel Talamisan had also died of lung cancer. "We often ask ourselves why Boracay environmentalists are inflicted with cancer diseases. I myself survived the pains of cancer. Is it toxic to love Boracay?" said Aguirre.

Cann served as president of the BFI for three years. It was during her term that their group fought for several environmental advocacies, particularly the opposition to the reclamation project of the Aklan provincial government.

Their protest actions led the Supreme Court to issue a temporary environmental protection order against the project.

The local government of Malay, Aklan has recognized the works of Cann for Boracay through a resolution passed and unanimously approved by the Municipal Council.

PHL water potability affected by climate change – LWUA chief

The potable water condition of the Philippines is no doubt affected by climate change, said Rene Villa, chairman of the Local Water Utilities Administration.

In an interview here, Villa said the LWUA has already submitted its report to the Climate Change Commission.

"Right now, we are not focusing our efforts on water sustainability. We are instead putting emphasis on the sanitation quality of our water system all over the country," Villa said.

He urged residents in the countryside to source water from the river instead of relying on water pumps.

Among the cities in the country whose potability of water have been affected by climate change are Cebu and Iloilo.

"We consider water as the next important jewel of the world. We in the LWUA are exerting our efforts to provide every Filipino people the important water resource," Villa said.

Report said that only 63 percent of the Filipinos have access to potable drinking water supply while the rest is being considered “self-sufficient.”

Boracay Aetas renew appeal for arrest of their spokesman's killer

Ati tribe leaders in this resort-island have renewed their appeal to President Benigno Aquino III and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the arrest of the suspect in the killing of their spokesman early this year.

In a statement, the Aetas said their lives continue to be threatened while the suspect remains at-large.

The Aklan Provincial Prosecutor’s Office has recently indicted suspect Daniel Celestino, a security guard of a resort here.

"The Aquino administration and the PNP has promised us that they will exert all efforts to give us justice on the killing of Dexter Condez. Yet, seven months after Condez was killed, the suspect remains at-large," the Aetas said.

The manifesto was signed by tribal leaders of the Boracay Ati Tribal Organization, namely Delsa Justo, their chieftain, together with Perla Tamboon, Marina Francisco, Elsa Tamboon, Lourdes Tamboon, Armando Conching, Evangeline Tamboon, Maria Tamboon and Jocelyn Evangelio.

"The question we have been asking ourselves is, as an Ati, is there a space for justice for us?," the signatories asked.

Police said they are eyeing land dispute as the primary motive in the killing of Condez.

Celestino together with his lawyers had earlier talked to the media here, denying his involvement in the killing.

Coast Guard denies oil spill in Boracay

(photo by a concerned citizen)
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) here has officially denied the presence of alleged oil spill in this resort island.

This developed after a concerned citizen posted in the social media two photos of Boracay waters showing presence of massive oil spill.

Lt. Jimmy Oliver Vingno, commander of the Coast Guard station in Caticlan, said that they immediately conducted operations Monday morning to verify the photos posted in the social media.

"Based on our findings, there were no presence of oil spill right now in Boracay. The photos may have been taken previously and that we are still investigating it," said Vingno.

The photos were said to be an aerial shot, taken using a helicopter.

If the photos were true, the PCG said the oil spill may have been caused by oil discharges from the motorized bancas in this resort island.

Some divers said that there were times they could see the presence of oil spill after they surfaced from the sea.

Trip Advisor cites Boracay West Cove

The management of the Boracay West Cove expects more tourism arrivals for this resort island after the Trip Advisor gave them an excellence rating for 2013.

Trip Advisor is a travel website that gives travel information, and posts reviews and opinions of travel destinations.

In a signed letter of Stephen Kaufer, president and CEO of Trip Advisor to the management of West Cove Resort, he cited that they have given the resort a Certificate of Excellence as it has received numerous feedback from travelers around the world over the past year.

"At Trip Advisor, we understand the power of traveler reviews. The Certificate of Excellence is awarded to businesses that rank in the top ten percent worldwide for traveler feedback. We hope you'll showcase this achievement by displaying the enclosed certificate for guests and staff to see. Congratulations again on your accomplishment," said Kaufer.

The Trip Advisor claimed that 75 percent of surveyed travelers say they are most likely to patronize a business with a visible Trip Advisor endorsement.

For his part, West Cove general manager Ben Mobo thanked Trip Advisor for the recognition as one of the best resorts in Boracay.(

Aklan gov urged heightened security for tourists coming to Boracay

Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores has urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) here for a heightened security following the anticipated influx of tourism in this resort island.

Miraflores said that he has been traveling abroad and that he has gained learning on how other countries secured their tourists.

"I saw many security lapses especially at the Kalibo International Airport for tourists traveling at night. On my part, I already had approved an increase of funding for the use of our police," Miraflores said.

Local officials here become security conscious as news reflecting bombing and war are reported around the globe.

"We hope to project that Boracay is a peaceful tourism destination," said Miraflores.

The governor also thanked the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Revolutionary Proletariat Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) based in Ibajay, Aklan for keeping the province free from rebel infestation.

"Long ago there were reports of bus burning in Aklan but not anymore as the RPA-ABBs are cooperative in the peace process with the government," he added.

The AFP has declared Aklan as insurgency-free in 2012.

Boracay vigilance against prostitution, theft as peak season starts

The Boracay Tourists Action Center of the Philippine National Police (PNP) here is on alert against prostitution and theft as this resort island once again enters the 'super peak season'.

The super peak season starts in the month of September and ends last week of May. This season also signals to different resorts here to increase their respective hotel rates due to anticipated influx of both foreign and local tourists coming.

Police officials said that they are on alert against prostitution particularly sex workers who take advantage of their clients.

Tourism officials are targeting 1.5 million tourists this year.

Fish fillet, chicken curry cause food poisoning of 65 persons

At least 65 teachers and students of the Assumption University based in San Fernando, Pampanga had been possibly food poisoned by the fish fillet and chicken curry they recently ate for dinner at the La Carmela Resort here.

This was revealed as the result of the investigation released by the sanitary office of Malay, Aklan.

The said faculty and students were on a field trip in this resort island since last week.

The victims complained of having chest pains and vomiting Saturday night.

Local sanitation officials said that although the management of the La Carmela Resort has paid all the medical expenses of the victims they are still conducting a deeper probe in the said incident. They said they do not want similar things to happen in this resort island.

Among those being investigated are the cooks of the said hotel including the source of ingredients used in the preparation of the said meals.

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Suspected food poisoning in Boracay being investigated

The local government of Malay, Aklan is investigating the alleged food poisoning of more than 40 students and teachers of the Assumption University based in San Fernando, Pampanga province.

Malay town Sanitary Officer 3 Babylyn Frontoza said that they are awaiting for the medical results of the doctors who examined the victims Saturday night.

The victims reportedly complained of chest pains and vomiting the reason why they were immediately brought to the Boracay District Hospital. Said victims were reportedly having a field trip at the La Carmela Resort in this resort island.

"We will be investigating the cooks of the said resort including the food suppliers, waiters, among others," said Frontoza.

Report said, the management of the said hotel refuses representatives of the local government in entering their premises as they are conducting their own investigation.

"Currently, we are also awaiting from the management of the La Carmela Resort to comment on the said incident," said Frontoza.

Measles in Aklan on ‘alarming’ level

 Cases of measles in Aklan have reached an “alarming” level, health officials said.

Latest data showed 51 confirmed cases of measles in the province, said Dr. Cornelio Cuatchon of the Provincial Health Office (PHO).

He said the Department of Health is still validating at least 139 more cases.

The number of cases continues to grow, according to Cuatchon.

“We are doing everything we can to prevent measles from further spreading,” he said.

Some residents in Brgy. Caticlan, Malay town, were reportedly infected by the disease.

At least two confirmed cases are in the said municipality, a PHO report showed.

Health officials in the province are now on “high alert” due to the continuous spread of the disease.

The Health department is expected to start a massive anti-measles vaccination in public schools in Malay this week.

The Philippine Red Cross has also started its own vaccination program in Malay including this island resort.

Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) of Malay is still studying the possibility of placing the town under a state of calamity.

“Currently, the council has no plans for such declaration,” said SB member Rowen Aguirre.

Weeks ago, the capital town of Kalibo was placed under a state of calamity after 15 cases of measles were confirmed there.

Six Chinese tourists rescued in Boracay

Six Chinese tourists and their Filipino skipper were rescued Friday morning after their boat capsized due to erratic weather, according to reports of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Lt. Commander Jimmy Oliver Vingno, PCG-Caticlan head, identified the Chinese tourists as Hang Jun Yi, 22; Shao Dong, 21; Jin Gian, 25; Tong Hua, 18; Shao Yi Ling, 23; and Zhang Lei, 21. The Filipino skipper was not named.

"The Chinese tourists was onboard the M/V Jasmine Rose 2 when the incident happened. They were supposedly to go on island hopping when their boat capsized only few meters away from Boat Station Number 3 in Barangay Manoc Manoc," said Vingno.

After the incident, sea sports activities were temporarily suspended pending investigations.

Operatives of the PCG, Boracay Action Group helped in the rescue operation.

Vingno said the Chinese tourists were able to hold onto the capsized boat that made rescue easier.

The Chinese tourists are now safe at their respective hotels.

Alden Richards on the cover of this year’s Cosmo Men!

GMA Network and GMA Artist Center congratulate one of its prime leading men, Alden Richards, for being hailed as one of this year’s hottest 69 Cosmo Bachelors.
Known for his handsome looks and undeniable talent, Alden admits that it’s an honour to be part of Cosmo’s coveted list of bachelors. “I am happy and excited. It’s my first time to be on the cover of Cosmo Men and I’m blessed that Summit Media and Cosmopolitan Magazine gave me their trust to be one of the covers.”
Last year, the sought after Kapuso star was one of the Cosmo Centerfolds and further captured the hearts of the Cosmo girls as he showed his winsome smile and toned form at the Cosmo Bachelors Bash 2012.
This September 24, the young heartthrob will once again hit the Cosmo ramp along with the country’s hottest bachelors in a ‘show-off’ of stunning form and physique. As preparation for the anticipated event, he currently undergoes a strict diet and workout schedule.
When asked about how a lady could win his heart, he says “Just be natural and she doesn’t need to fake anything just to get my attention”.
Other men who made it to the magazine’s 69 bachelors’ list include Kapuso stars Aljur Abrenica, Tom Rodriguez and Dennis Trillo.

More sectors join force for biodiversity protection in Boracay

More sectors are joining forces for the biodiversity protection in this resort island originally organized by the cooperation between the Philippine and Japanese experts.

Jojo Rodriguez of the Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative (SPC) said that they are joining the biodiversity campaign by assisting a group of experts for the project dubbed as "Integrated Coastal Ecosystem Conservation and Adaptive Management under Local and Global Environmental Impacts (CECAM) in the Philippines".

The CECAM is composed of different organizations such as the University of Tokyo, Nagasaki University, Hokkaido University, Kochi University, Ryukyu University, Port and Airport Research Institute, Japan Agency for Marine Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), University of the Philippines Department of Geodetic Engineering, UP Marine Science and UP Visayas.

"Like them we are also supporting efforts for biodiversity protection as we would also like to contribute to prepare Boracay in the future against the possible onslaught of climate change," said Rodriguez.

The SPC has also linkages with the Department of Science and Technology, Boracay Action Group, Globe and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for the conservation of the environment of Boracay.

CECAM is part of the five-year research project spearheaded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Japan Science and Technology Agency. The CECAM is now on its third year of implementation.

Aside from Boracay, other provinces also includes in the research projects were Laguna Lake, Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro, Banate Bay in Iloilo; Bolinao in Pangasinan; including Naawan and Landingin in Pangasinan.

"We expect the group of experts to arrive in Boracay September 12 in preparation for the scheduled morning dive on last week of September or October," Rodriguez said.

Lifeguard volunteers cited for saving drowning victims

Volunteer lifeguards in this world famous tourist destination were recently given due recognition for saving drowning victims on separate occasions.

The awardees are Teody Colindres, Halim Dica, Ednil Espares, Albert Moronio, Gregorio Maming, Mark Ortega and Gregorio Sacapano, all of whom received the Lifeguard Good Samaritan Award.

They personally received the awards from Lifeguard Supervisor Mike Labatiao, Island administrator Glenn Sacapano and Boracay Action Group adviser Leonard Tirol after the recent joint flag-raising ceremony at Barangay Balabag Plaza here.

Aside from the volunteer lifeguards, operatives of the Municipal Auxiliary Policemen and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) were also given awards during the program.

The volunteer lifeguards committed for a zero casualty drowning incident in this island this year.

SPC to honor fallen DOST director

The Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative is planning to honor the late director of the Dept. of Science and Technology by naming after him the rehabilitated reef in nearby Camiguin province.

Jojo Rodgriguez of the SPC said DOST Director Caesar Pagdilao died of heart attack last week in Metro Manila. He was buried last Saturday.

"Through DOST Secretary Mario Montejo and Director Pagdilao around 20,000 coral fragments were planted all over the country. This is under the Filipinnovation program of the DOST," said Rodriguez Monday.

The SPC, in coordination with the DOST, has been in the forefront of planting coral fragments in the country hoping to restore the damaged coral reefs.In Boracay, partners include the Malay municipal government and the Boracay Association of Scuba Diving Schools.

"Director Pagdilao has been a great help for our nationwide coral reef restoration program. This is the reason why we are planning our project in Camiguin as Cesar Pagdilao Reef so that he would always be remembered," said Rodriguez.

Virna Salac of the DOST Central Office in a telephone interview said Monday that aside from the Coral Reef Restoration, Director Pagdilao was also known in the DOST as champion for balancing food security and the environment.

"We consider Director Pagdilao as a great loss to the DOST as he was able to help thousands of Filipino people under his leadership," said Salac.

Kalibo as venue of Software Freedom Day

This Ati-atihan town has been identified as a venue for the international celebration of the Software Freedom Day.

Meric Mara, chief architect of the 8Layer Technologies Incorporated, said that the international celebration for the Visayas leg is on Sept 21 and Sept 28 this year.

The company is the lead organizer of SFD in the country every September.

The SFD-Aklan is in joint cooperation with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Aklan and the Dept. of Trade and Industry.

This year's theme is "Communities for Endless FOSSibilities."

"During the SFD we will be giving Information Technology (IT) seminar for interested students of their choice on the wide array of topics. We will also be giving seminar for Small and Medium Entrepreneurs where we will be giving them software's on simplified business and accounting module which is good for one year," said Mara.

Venues for the school orientation will be staged at the APSTA Center while the business orientation will be held at Ati-atihan Festival Hotel.

"We will also be campaigning for the massive use of the Open Source Technology which is already gaining support worldwide but only few Filipinos understand what this technology could offer us," said Mara.

Authorities focus to strengthen security in Boracay

The Willy's Rock, a tourism landmark in this resort island, is now the focus of police enforcers and other authorities in this resort island.

This developed after data from the Boracay Tourists Assistance Center (BTAC) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) is a major area on both theft and drowning incidents.

Because of this, authorities including the Department of Tourism (DOT) are warning tourists and residents to be wary of their personal belongings while in Boracay. While thieves here are considered only few in number, suspects continue to go back to stealing even after they were arrested.

Most of theft victims especially foreign tourists do not pursue the case in court once their stolen items were returned.

The Willys Rock is also considered a drowning-prone area because observers say the area occasionally creates a whirlpool making swimming prone to drowning.

To minimize the risks of theft and other related incidents, the local government of Malay will soon start the 24-hours shifting duty of the Municipal Auxiliary Policemen in this resort island.

Local government officials said the Aklan provincial government had promised to shoulder the honorarium of 50 more MAP operatives for Boracay, capable of round the clock monitoring.

GMA News strengthens disaster preparedness via GMA Weather

During the onslaught of Tropical Storm Maring, viewers relied on GMA News and Public Affairs’ GMA Weather for comprehensive and accurate weather reporting. And at the forefront of GMA Weather is the country’s leading authority in the field of meteorology, Nathaniel “Mang Tani” Cruz.

Mang Tani lends his thirty years of expertise to GMA News to report on various weather conditions as the network's resident meteorologist. A former meteorologist for Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, Mang Tani was also the Officer in Charge in the Office of the Deputy Administrator for the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). To date, GMA remains the only broadcast news organization in the country with a resident meteorologist.

“Ang panganib na dulot ng pabago-bagong panahon ay maaaring makasira ng mga plano, buhay, at kabuhayan ng kahit sino. Panata ng GMA Weather ang pagbabahagi ng abot-kamay na ulat panahon sa GMA newscasts. Panata ko naman bilang meteorologist ang paghahatid ng weather reports na maaasahan, sa ngalan ng Serbisyong Totoo,” said Mang Tani, whose body of work in weather reporting includes some of the most devastating typhoons in the country's history.  

Mang Tani recently topped the online survey of a local website which polled netizens on their choice for the country’s Most Reliable Weatherperson with an overwhelming 53% or 13,717 votes. GMA Weather’s Consultant for Science and Weather Karen Cardenas ranked second with 39.86% or a total of 10,139 votes.

Mang Tani and Cardenas have also been invited by different schools, universities, organizations, and even the Department of Budget and Management to talk about climate change and disaster preparedness.  GMA Weather is under the I M READY banner, GMA News' award-winning campaign for public safety.

Working in synergy with PAGASA and Project NOAH (the Department of Science and Technology’s unit for disaster prevention and disaster risk management), GMA Weather is able to do both weather forecasting and nowcasting. The team has met with DOST Secretary Mario Montejo and key officials of PAGASA and Project Noah to discuss ways on how to effectively prepare people for floods, strong winds and the calamitous effects of typhoons, monsoon rains and other weather disturbances.

GMA Weather's up-to-the-minute updates may be seen on GMA-7's 24 Oras, Unang Hirit, and Saksi, as well as on GMA News TV's State of the Nation with Jessica Soho, QRT, Balita Pilipinas, Balitanghali and News To Go. Weather forecasts may also be heard via GMA Network’s flagship radio station, Super Radyo DZBB 594.

GMA Weather is powered by Weather Central, a US-based weather solutions provider widely-regarded as the most viewed broadcast weather system in the world. Weather Central allows GMA Weather to deliver interactive weather reports, highlighting key weather events and the extent of a weather disturbance's potential impact down to a specific location.

Volunteer group vow for zero drowning fatality

The Boracay Action Group has vowed to implement a zero casualty for drowning incidents in this resort island this year and in the years to come only if they could be provided a decent ambulance.

Commodore Leonard Tirol, representing the Philippine Coast Guard-Auxiliary, said that for this year already there were no reported drowning incident in this resort island. The achievement is caused by the fast pace response of the volunteers on drowning.

The BAG is a multi-sectoral organization here organized by the local government of Malay, Aklan for disaster management and response.

"Right now we are using a mini multi-cab as make shift ambulance. What we need is an ambulance that could be trusted enough for an immediate transport of the drowning victim," Tirol said Monday.

Report said that volunteer groups registered 17 drowning fatalities last year. Most of the victims were Koreans and Chinese tourists.

Tirol said that the local government of Malay had committed to provide them gasoline allowance for their transport and rescue.

It was learned that the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office had donated an ambulance to the local government unit two months ago.

But the donated ambulance is now being used for health emergency of the local residents.

"We badly needed an ambulance for our operation," said Tirol.

Tirol recently received commendations from the Philippine National Police Headquarters for donating a lot to be used for the police tourism training facility in this resort island.

Slain boatman’s kin seeks autopsy

The family of a boatman who was hacked to death in this island resort recently sought for an autopsy on the victim.

The victim was identified as 33-year-old Gary Samindao.

His elder brother, Joeny, said they were unconvinced by the decision of the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office that a homicide case be filed against suspect Jeory Agustin.

Agustin has turned himself in to the authorities.

He was detained in the Aklan Rehabilitation Center in Brgy. Nalook, Kalibo town.

The Samindao family originally filed a murder case against the suspect.

Both the victim and the suspect were residents of San Jose, Romblon.

Agustin said he felt insulted when Gary Samindao told him he was gay while they were having a drinking spree here last week.

Samindao was attacked while he sleeping in his room in Sitio Tambisaan, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc, police said.

He succumbed to 27 hack wounds in the body, said the police.

“I have already requested the Boracay Tourist Assistance Center [for an] autopsy [on my brother],” Joeny Samindao said.

“We will [also] ask the prosecutor for reconsideration,” he added./

Boracay MRF now a tourism destination

 The Materials Recovery Facility at Barangay Balabag here is already considered another tourism attraction for this resort island.

Island administrator Glen Sacapano said that the facility is being visited by different local government representatives all over the country.

Among those who recently visited the site were from the El Nido of Palawan.

"The visitors learn about our MRF operations practices in Boracay and they hope to also implement it in their own locality. In the process, we are also learning from them as we also plan to improve our MRF," said Sacapano.

Aside from the MRF, the local government of Malay is also opening its door for their sanitary landfill as also another possible tourism destination.

The MRF is being supported by the Department of Science and Technology and Department of Tourism, among others. It is considered as one of the models for sustainable waste management in the country.

Task Force to assess Boracay's redevelopment

Members of the Boracay Task Force will soon convene to assess the voluntary demolition being conducted by private firms in this resort island for the past week.

Malay Councilor Rowen Aguirre said the assessment aims to determine the next step of the 'redevelopment' in this resort island.

The Malay local government is a member of the task force mandated by President Benigno S. Aquino III to ensure environmental conservation of Boracay.

"The assessment is also aimed to determine what we will do to those stakeholders who refuse to comply with government regulations," Aguirre said.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has listed around 293 illegal structures such as tents and stage halls swamping the island's front beach area. Private firms have voluntarily dismantled the structures after they were given a one-week warning.

According to the study of the Tokyo Institute of Technology, this resort island is undergoing over-development and lacks social infrastructures because of man-made activities.

Experts from Japan in collaboration with the University of the Philippines-Marine Science Department recently conducted the environmental research here.

DOH to allocate P120 million for new Boracay Hospital

The Department of Health (DoH) has reportedly expressed commitment to allocate P120 million for the building of a new Boracay hospital in the next three years.

Aklan Gov. Florencio Miraflores said that they have identified the old facility of the Department of Tourism (DOT) at Mt. Luho here as possible location of the said hospital.

"Right now we are awaiting for the formal signing of memorandum between the DOT and the DOH as first step towards the realization of the hospital," said Miraflores.

The DOT has expressed approval for the said plan since they are no longer using the old facility. The DOH for its part has seen the need to create a new hospital since the current Boracay District Hospital aside from being overcrowded is also prone to flooding.

Aside from the modern hospital, the DOH also plans to put up a trauma center here for drowning victims and other incidents. A helipad will also be placed for emergencies.

DENR, Malay LGU ready for first phase of 'redevelopment'

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government including the Boracay Task Force are now prepared for the "revedelopment" of this resort island.

The Task Force that has been mandated by President Benigno Simeon Aquino III urged the media to consider the term "redevelopment" for demolition of illegal structures here.

During a public forum held recently, the local government of Malay gave establishments until August 28 to remove their illegal structures at the vegetation areas of the front beach. The forum was participated by around 50 stakeholders here.

Failure to do so would signal the task force to proceed to its redevelopment action against erring establishments.

"The DENR has already downloaded some P4.7 million to the local government of Malay as budget for the first phase of redevelopment," said Ivene Reyes chief of the Aklan Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Friday.

Among those included in the lists for redevelopment are the tents, beach huts, stage and other related structures that are inside the easement. Exempted from the first phase were the tables and chairs used at night and are not visible at day time.

The task force warns erring establishments that they could possibly recommend closure if they continue to ignore government restrictions.

"We are doing this redevelopment because aside for it being a mandate of Malacanang, we are also supporting the move to preserve the island of Boracay," Reyes said.

PR: GMA's 24 Oras and I-Witness, only Asian nominees in this year's Emmys

Widely regarded as the Philippines' most awarded broadcast news
organization, GMA News and Public Affairs brings pride to the country
anew with two nominations in this year's International Emmy Awards.
GMA's flagship primetime newscast 24 Oras and longest-running public
affairs program I-Witness were among the eight international nominees
for the News and Current Affairs categories.

24 Oras' in-depth coverage of Typhoon Pablo, considered as the world's
deadliest natural disaster in 2012, received a nomination in the News
category. Led by anchors Mel Tiangco and Mike Enriquez, GMA News and
Public Affairs' ace team of reporters covered the deadly typhoon that
whipped Mindanao a few weeks before Christmas. 24 Oras' coverage of the
heartbreaking loss of lives after the typhoon was cited for being "a
catalyst for public debate regarding the effectiveness of the country's
emergency preparedness".

Kara David's I-Witness documentary on children's rights titled
"Alkansiya" earned a nomination in the Current Affairs category.
"Alkansiya" tells the story of a 12-year-old boy from Eastern Samar who
dives and scours the seabed every night in search of sea cucumbers.
Hoping to finish his studies, he eagerly deposits his measly income from
selling his daily haul to his "alkansiya" or piggy bank. The documentary
also received the prestigious UNICEF Child Rights Award in October of
last year in Seoul, Korea.

Entries from GMA Network are the sole nominees from the Philippines and
even Asia in the News and Current Affairs categories. The eight nominees
come from five countries including Brazil, Germany, Romania,
Philippines, and United Kingdom. GMA Network and Brazil's TV Globo are
the only international entries to have earned a nod in both categories.

"The 2013 Nominees reported on subjects ranging from war to politics to
human triumph and tragedy," said Bruce L. Paisner, President & CEO of
the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, the
organization conferring the Emmys, in a news release announcing the
nominees last August 14.

Winners will be announced at the Lincoln Center in New York on October
1. (

EMB accredits West Cove Resort as Pollution Control Fighter

The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has given the West Cove Resort here a certificate of accreditation as pollution control officer.

This, after the EMB-DENR-Western Visayas invited the said resort recently as participant to the pollution control forum held in Iloilo City. The forum was also organized together with the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines Incorporated.

Said forum was held during the 33rd Regional Convention and General Membership Assembly on June 27-28, 2013.

The certificate of accreditation was signed by DENR regional director Atty. Jonathan Bulos dated July 17.

"This certificate shows that we are committed in preserving the environment and not to cause pollution especially for Boracay Island considered as one of the World's Best Beaches," said Mobo on Thursday.

Also earlier, the TripAdvisor, one of the world's leading tourism firms, has awarded the West Cove Resort with the Certificate of Excellence as one of the champions for 2013.

New jetty port in Bulalacao to further boost PHL tourism

Negotiations are now underway for the possible opening of a new jetty port in Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro.

Niven Maquirang, Caticlan Jetty Port administrator, said Tuesday that the new jetty port will traverse the route Bulalacao to Caticlan in Aklan and Bulalacao to Palawan. This new route hopes to increase tourism activity in the country.

"We already have a vessel that is interested to ply on the said route. We expect that the jetty port in Bulalacao will be operational in October this year," Maquirang said.

If realized, travel time from Bulalacao to Caticlan is expected to be at least two hours and thirty minutes.

Before the opening of the new route, a travel from Roxas, Oriental Mindoro and Caticlan, in Malay, Aklan has been already operational for several years through the roll on-roll off vessel. Travel time on the RO-RO vessel is five to six hours.

With these developments, tourists coming to Boracay will also soon enjoy Palawan and vice versa.

Bulalacao formerly known as San Pedro is a fourth class municipality of Oriental Mindoro. Report said that Bulalacao also offers good beaches, coves, peninsulas, and other tourism attractions.

‘Boracay needs new hospital’

The Department of Health (DOH) is currently studying the possibility of building another hospital in this island resort.

Dr. Victor Sta. Maria, Provincial Health Office head, said he recently discussed the matter with DOH representative Zuela Calizo.

“The DOH wanted to build a new hospital that is equipped with modern facilities [that] meet international standards,” Sta. Maria said.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the residents here have expressed disappointment to the state of the Boracay District Hospital.

Now the DOH is coordinating with the municipal government of Malay in looking for a possible location for the new hospital.

Aside from the hospital, the DOT is also pushing for the acquisition of an air or boat ambulance.

Earlier, it said an air or boat ambulance could best cater to the health needs of rich foreign and local tourists coming to Boracay.

Currently, the sick or victims of accidents here were being transported via public bancas to mainland Malay, then to the hospital in the capital town of Kalibo.

Malay Council seeks increase of maximum height limit for Boracay buildings

Despite the effort of the national government for environmental sustainability in this resort island, the Malay council is seeking to allow the increase of maximum height limit for buildings in this resort island.

The proposal is embodied in the municipal ordinance number 328 series of 2013 deliberated and passed by the Malay body last June 18.

It can be recalled that President Benigno Simeon Aquino III recently asked for the creation of Boracay Task Force which hopes to ensure environmental sustainability in this resort island. The task force is composed of departments of tourism (DOT), of environment and natural resources (DENR) and, of interior and local government (DILG) among others.

In the said proposed ordinance, the council seeks to add sections four and five of the municipal ordinance 267 series of 2008 and at the same time conduct amendments to the section ten of such local legislation.

The addendum highlights the maximum height limitations of the building that maybe constructed from one hundred meters and beyond the buffer zone shall not exceed 16 meters five-storey building provided that the lot area shall be 5,000 square meters but less than two hectares.

Another addendum features the maximum height of the building that maybe constructed from 100 and beyond the buffer zone shall not exceed 20 meters six-storey building provided that the lot area is two hectares and above.

The original ordinance stipulates that the maximum limit for buildings in this resort island will only be at least three-storey to prevent Boracay from reaching its overloaded capacity.

The council justifies that the continued influx of tourist in this resort island is overwhelming, industry development is inevitable and progress can no longer be suppressed, thus a need to increase the maximum height limitations of buildings in this resort island.

The Malay municipal council also mandates that applicants in the said local legislation should post amounting to five percent of the total cost of the project but shall not exceed P1 million.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP)of Aklan has called the municipal engineering of Malay and the proponents for a committee hearing on Monday August 19 for the provincial board members to decide whether to endorse the said ordinance or not.

TESDA to probe alleged discrimination of workers in Boracay

The Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) is looking into the alleged discrimination in the hiring of workers in this resort island.

This developed after the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) officially reported that their study showed that most of the workers being hired here are from the nearby provinces of Iloilo, Cebu, and Negros Occidental.

Because of this, Aklan residents are allegedly being displaced in the hiring process.

TESDA officials said that they provide nationwide accreditation and that the trainings being provided are the same in all provinces.

Aklan Vice Gov. Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo said that TESDA officials were surprised by the results of the DOLE study and committed to take a look into the concern.

The Aklan provincial government is implementing a policy that Aklan residents should be prioritized in the hiring of employees in the province especially in this resort island.

"The TESDA wishes to understand why people coming from other provinces are being hired rather than the local residents," Quimpo added.

Bali, Boracay set to sign sisterhood agreement

The government of Bali, Indonesia will soon sign a sisterhood agreement with the Aklan provincial government.

Aklan Gov. Florencio Miraflores said Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines Yohanes Kristiarto Soeryo Legowo confirmed the plan during their meeting Tuesday.

"The initiative came from the Indonesian government as Boracay has recently been considered one of the world's best beaches," Miraflores said Wednesday.

In his presentation during the meeting, Legowo said that the Indonesian government is committed for joint tourism promotion, joint tourism management training, familiarization trip for travel agencies and tour operators, seminar for tourism development, export of local handicrafts, opening of branch tour operator, and direct flights from Denpasar to the Kalibo International Airport.

"I was told that the Indonesian government wanted to learn from our people's voluntary effort on environmental conservation and management. Some Indonesians are reportedly not keen on volunteering to help in their environmental sustainability," Miraflores said.

In December last year, the Indonesian embassy had sent a representation to the Aklan provincial government to discuss the proposed sisterhood agreement. Legowo visited Boracay last year on the invitation of Ilocos Gov. Chavit Singson.

"Apparently, Legowo, fell in love with Boracay Island, one of the considerations why the sisterhood agreement is being finalized," Miraflores said.

Bali became famous as a tourism zone in the 1950's while Boracay earned international recognition in the 1980's.

Kalibo international airport may restrict operations next year

 The Department of Tourism (DoT) has recommended possible restrictions in the operation of the Kalibo International Airport (KIA) next year.

Helen Catalbas, regional director of the Department of Tourism Region 6 (DOT-6), said Tuesday the plan is to close KIA to too many aircraft because of overcrowding.

"Right now, the KIA suffers from overcrowding due to the increasing number of foreign and local tourists going to Boracay," the tourism official said.

The KIA is considered a major gateway for tourists coming to this resort-island.

To lessen the economic impact of the KIA restrictions, the DOT has urged the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to fast track all planned development for the airport, including rehabilitation and extension.

The CAAP had earlier tagged the KIA as one of the ten busiest airports in the country. It currently has direct chartered flights from Singapore, Hong Kong and other China provinces.

It also has a number of domestic flights daily from Manila.

8 sites shortlisted for PHL APEC hosting in 2015

By Michaela del Callar (PNA)

Eight cities and destinations around the country have been shortlisted as possible venues for high-level meetings when the Philippines hosts the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in 2015, a senior Foreign Affairs official said.

Foreign Undersecretary Laura del Rosario, head of the National Organizing Council for APEC, said among those selected were: Metro Manila, Clark, Tagaytay, Legaspi, Iloilo, Boracay, Cebu and Davao. Bacolod, she said, is also being considered as a back-up venue for the meeting.

Del Rosario said the shortlisted sites are “under serious considerations” by the organizers but will have to go through another round of evaluation every six months before 2015 to ensure its readiness to host the meetings.

“The cities that were reviewed have passed the initial requirements based on certain criteria - security, cleanliness, and accessibility,” Del Rosario told reporters in an interview.

Criteria for selection of venues also include facilities and infrastructure, power and water conditions, and medical services availability, Del Rosario said.

The APEC Summit, which would include leaders from the United States, Japan and China, would be held in the country by November 2015.

During the Philippine hosting, Del Rosario said a number of preparatory meetings in the ministerial and senior official levels will be held throughout the year in the run up to the summit.

The APEC leaders’ meeting, said to be the biggest and most high profile annual gathering of world leaders from 21-member economies, will be hosted by President Benigno S. Aquino III before he ends his term in June 2016.

Preparations including security and logistical requirements are being laid out as early as this year, Del Rosario said.

The APEC meetings, she said, would be a good opportunity for the Philippines to flaunt its prime cities and popular tourist destinations, like the world-famed Boracay and the Mayon Volcano in Legaspi, Albay.

It is also a chance for the country to showcase the diversity of Philippine regions, culture, arts and cuisine, Del Rosario said, adding the country’s hosting of the summit will pave the way for infrastructure improvements across the Philippines and begin the trend for “Livable Cities.”

“We’re trying to make cities live up and become livable cities because one of the agenda items of APEC is to create sustainable and livable cities,” she said.

AirAsia to promote Aklan as tourism hub

AirAsia will soon promote Aklan province as its hub for international flights.

Jonathan Allen Yabut, incoming chief of staff of Air Asia, said the management has already approved the plan to make Kalibo International Airport (KIA) as one of its hubs.

Yabut, 27, recently earned the chief of staff rank after he was named the winner of the first season of “The Apprentice Asia, ” a reality show aired on AXN Asia.

"Aside from Boracay, we will also promote other tourism destinations in the province such as the Kalibo Mangrove Eco-Park and the Jawili Falls," Yabut said.

"Aside from this, I am planning for AirAsia to also launch a food company showcasing the different indigenous and ethnic foods in Asia especially the Philippines," he added.

The Aklan provincial government had earlier welcomed the plans of AirAsia to promote the KIA as an international hub.

Aklan Vice Gov. Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo said the promotion brought about by declaring KIA as tourism hub will provide multiple opportunities for the province of Aklan.(

Three Chinese nationals arrested for gambling

The Philippine National Police has arrested three Chinese nationals for playing card games popularly known as “blackjack” in this resort island.

PO3 Christopher Mendoza of the Boracay PNP said the Chinese nationals, whose identities were not readily made available by the police, were arrested by operatives of the Regional Intelligence Division of the PNP.

The three foreign nationals were identified as Liang Yue Shi, 35, a tourist guide and a resident of Sitio Lubuton, Brgy. Manoc-manoc, Boracay; Wen Min Heng, 46; and Bao Sang Chan, 50, both residents of Pukin, China but temporarily living at Sitio Diniwid, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay who owns the Hong Kong Sea Food Restaurant in the island-resort.

"The PNP pounced on the Chinese nationals Monday night inside the Hong Kong Sea Food Restaurant in Brgy. Balabag here,” Mendoza told this writer Tuesday.

Recovered from their possession and control were playing cards, cellphone, $ 1,000 and some P150,000 believed to have been used in the illegal gambling.

"Our intelligence received reports that the Chinese nationals are gambling while staying in this resort island so we conducted surveillance before our police arrested them," Mendoza said.

"They will be charged for the violation of Republic Act 9287 otherwise known as the Anti Gambling Act," said Mendoza.

It was learned that the suspects managed to post P20,000 bail bond each for their temporary liberty.

flash

flash: :three Chinese nationals arrested over illegal gambling in Boracay

DENR supports call for regulations of fire dance, lighted sand castles in Boracay

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) on Friday joined the call of the Department of Tourism (DOT) for the regulation of fire dancers and lighted sand castles in this resort island.

The DOT earlier reported on the possible beach pollution created by the fire dancers and the lighted sand castles.

Ivene Reyes, Aklan PENRO chief said he agreed to the observation of the DOT.

"Both fire dancers and lighted sand castle-makers use gas in their activities. The gas used, however, were being thrown at the beach and this may attribute to beach pollution. Right now the situation is not alarming but we are worried that this may happen soon if the activities were not regulated," said Reyes.

He recommended that fire dancers (and lighted sand castles) be regulated if they will not be allowed to throw gas at the beach. Likewise, fire dancer sooth their body with gas should not be allowed to swim at the beach.

"This way, we could prevent beach pollution from growing if everybody helps in the conservation of Boracay," said Reyes.

Fire dancing and lighted sand castles are a common beach attractions in this resort island.

Boracay urged to become smoke-free tourism destination

The Dept. of Tourism here is supporting the call of several sectors to make this resort island a smoke-free tourism destination.

Tim Ticar, officer-in-charge of DOT-Boracay, said that it will be a welcome development this resort-island would be considered smoke-free.

The municipal government of Malay, Aklan still has to decide on its implementation.

"Declaring Boracay a smoke-free tourism destination will not only support the Clean Air Act but will also attract more tourists because of the island’s healthy environment," Ticar said.

The local government has already been enforcing penalties for both tourists and residents found smoking at the front beach.

Niven Maquirang, jetty port administrator, said he is also finalizing the plan to make both Cagban and Caticlan jetty ports smoke-free areas.

"We agree to the cause of making Boracay a smoke-free tourism destination and my part is to consider declaring my area, the jetty port, as a smoke free gateway for tourists coming to Boracay," Maquirang said.

Task force identifies 293 illegal structures in Boracay

 The technical team of the Task Force: Boracay has found 293 structures in this resort-island violating the 25+5 meters easement set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The task force, composed of representatives from the DENR, departments of tourism (DOT), and of interior and local government (DILG), was created upon orders from President Benigno Aquino III to ensure the resort-island’s sustainability as a premier tourism destination.

Ivene Reyes, provincial head of DENR-Aklan, said Tuesday their next step will be the finalization of the list together with the local government of Malay on August 5-7.

"We will then discuss the date of the removal of the illegal structures. The law mandates that the local government unit should lead in the demolition," Reyes said.

The demolition may be scheduled either in last week of August or in September.

Reyes said the Cagban Jetty Port has been included in the list of illegal structures.

"But since it is a government project and is important in tourism, the task force deemed that its structure and operation be regulated," Reyes said.

The Cagban Port serves as the entry and exit point of tourists and residents coming to and from Boracay.

"We are hoping for the cooperation of the different sectors in Boracay," the DENR official said.