Boracay coral reef pollution alarms environmental group

The unabated pollution adversely affecting coral reefs and coral buds in the waters off world renowned Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan has alarmed a pro-environment group.

Jose Rodriguez of Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative (SPC) said the alarming situation was uncovered following an underwater survey conducted by marine biologists Sim Ajeno, Joseph Busano, Ernesto Fiedra, and Elpidio Olaer III last December, 2015.

The SPC underwater survey of coral juveniles along Boracay’s Friday Reef found that the Nutrient Indicator Algae remains at very high levels.

“This means that there is still high sewage pollution in the coral reef area with the presence of trash and crown thorns,” explained Rodriguez.

“Waste management control must be given high priority. Too much development without considering the health of the sea will end up losing the treasure in the island of Boracay,” Rodriguez appealed.

The SPC data is the latest in the recurring environmental problems faced by the popular island resort.

Last year, there was a uproar over the presence of green algae along the famous white sand beach.

There was also a report that sewage waste has contaminated Bulabog Beach, on the other side of Boracay Island.

While there was high level of pollution, SPC also noted that portion of Boracay’s coral reef buds are slowly recovering from the high-mortality rate recorded last year.

“We see new recruits and old coral recruits growing in size and volume,” Rodriguez added.