Erik Espina
By Erik Espina
Several administrations ago, a tourism secretary back from an inspection trip to one of the world’s best beaches gave me a whispered heads-up, “Better visit Boracay before it implodes.” He was not referring to increasing tourist arrivals, domestic or foreign. But disconcerted over the future of what was mindless expansion of business along beach fronts and preserves -- stalls, restaurants, bars, and resorts, and their impact on virginal setting, with the expected by-product of human the consumption/waste, and pollution. The writing was on the wall, so to speak.
Once a back-packers secret paradise it was slowly being subjugated by huge constructions, swamped with enterprising investments and violations of building and environment codes, to cash-in on the lucrative tourism industry. Local governments, to be frank, nary cared about “sustainable development” or protecting the bucolic haven for unobstructed sun, white sand, and pristine waters. They sidelined common good for the “bottom line” income.
The first warnings came when traces of human feces were reportedly found in the waters many years back. I recall the post-script of a “balikbayan” who brought his family from the United States to experience the island’s powdery sands. His expertise as architect and engineer kicked-in after a few days of suspicious odors. He did some due-diligence, asking the resort-hotel where their septic tank was located. Queried about piping. Etc. This was the first and last time he sampled the Boracay adventure.
Today, because of too much commercialism, development gone awry, the ground is about to fall. To be graphic, in 2017 alone, there were roughly two million visitors. Where did all the garbage and human excreta go? Algal presence is now detected due to high levels of waste in the island. Indeed, heads must roll. Stalls and 5-star establishments found breaking the law should be, closed or removed. “Stewardship” is crucial in saving Boracay from the reckless imprudence of local governance inbreeding with irresponsible enterprises.
PERSONAL: PMA ’76 Magilas Class extends deep condolences and prayers to the family of the late Defense & Army Chief Fortunato Abat. On a happier note, natal greetings to Gen. Ramon Cannu Sr. on his 95th birthday this March 19.