Six associations of Boracay stakeholders have proposed solutions to address “pressing infrastructure, regulatory, and marketing challenges” in an effort to restore tourism to what was once the Philippines’ crown jewel.
The joint resolution was signed by Boracay Foundation, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, MICE Alliance – Boracay, Boracay Island Travel Agency and Tour Operators Association (BITATOA), Malay Tour Guide Association (MALTOA), and Korean Residents Organization of Boracay (KROB).
The joint resolution was made as tourist numbers to Boracay have been dwindling, with foreigners now making up the minority of arrivals. Before the island’s rehabilitation and the pandemic, foreigners accounted for 75 to 85 per cent of total arrivals. As of October this year, Boracay welcomed a total of 145,021 visitors, of whom only 17 per cent were foreigners, while 83 per cent were domestic tourists.
Among the groups’ infrastructure proposals are to “ensure the efficient utilisation” of the budget allocated for renovating Caticlan Jetty Port – the main gateway for tourists travelling to and from the island – and to install PWD-friendly facilities to improve the arrival and departure experience for all visitors.
They support granting international airport status to Caticlan Airport, despite opposition from some quarters. Caticlan Airport, which is newer, smaller, and nearer to Caticlan Jetty Port than Kalibo Airport, is facing delays in facility upgrades and the introduction of direct international flights, limiting Boracay’s ability to attract high-value tourists.
They clamour for “a streamlined, standardised” business permit process across all businesses in Boracay, noting that “the current renewal process for business permits, including health cards and sanitation permits, is overly burdensome, expensive, and lacks consistency”.
“The perception of Boracay as an overly regulated destination is harming its appeal to potential tourists,” the groups said, adding that they are also seeking to “shift marketing efforts to portray Boracay as a fun, relaxing, and welcoming destination” while increasing the number of events and activities to attract more visitors.
MICE Alliance, BITATOA, MALTOA and KROB will continue to actively promote Boracay by joining local and international travel shows.
