‘Boracay country’s economic driver’

Its huge contribution to the country’s tourism industry, among others, makes this island resort a “great economic driver,” said Rep. Teodorico Haresco Jr.
In 2013, Western Visayas put in some P3.6 billion in the Philippine economy, about P2.4 billion of which came from Aklan, including Boracay, Haresco said.
“Aside from this, Aklan and Boracay also source food from other provinces,” transported via the Strong Republic Nautical Highway, said the congressman.
The provincial government is currently negotiating with the Department of Budget and Management for the allocation of at least 20 percent of its contribution to boost the island resort’s tourism.
For her part, Department of Tourism regional director Helen Catalbas cited the importance of locally produced food.
Enabling local communities to produce more food “will further decrease food prices in this island resort,” Catalbas said. Lower food prices will “lure more tourists to Boracay,” she stressed./