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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider Aklan folk back local officials over Boracay bridge

Aklan folk back local officials over Boracay bridge

Published May 29, 2026 01:29 pm
THE May 27 consultative meeting over the proposed Boracay bridge project. (BFI)
THE May 27 consultative meeting over the proposed Boracay bridge project. (BFI)

ILOILO CITY – People in Aklan province are supporting local government officials over the proposed Boracay bridge project.

Last May 27, Aklan Gov. Jose Enrique “Joen” Miraflores announced that San Miguel Corp. (SMC) President and Chief Executive Ramon Ang told him and Aklan second district Rep. Florencio “Joeben” Miraflores and Aklan Provincial Board Member Reynado “Boy” Quimpo that the project will no longer push through due to massive opposition by the people.

However, Ang later on denied that San Miguel Holdings Corp. (SMHC), the infrastructure arm of SMC, cancelled the 2.54-kilometer project that would link Boracay Island and mainland Malay town.  

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which awarded the P7.78-billion project to SMHC, has yet to issue statements.

People in Malay and Aklan are supporting their officials amid confusion and shock over conflicting reports about the project.

“For me, what will the province gain if they (Aklan officials) will lie? If they will invent a story that they met with Ramon Ang?” said Nenette Aguirre-Graf, a former Malay municipal councilor.

“I still believe them,” added Graf, a member of the board of trustees of the Boracay Foundation Inc. (BFI).

Residents aired sentiments and expressed support to the Aklan officials on social media who they said are representing the voice of the majority and have opposed the project since 2019. 

The project was cancelled under a gentlemen’s agreement during a May 13 meeting with Ang in Pasig City.

Ang cancelled the project after more than an hour of discussions where officials reiterated that the project will negatively impact the environment and socio-economic sectors.

The three Aklan officials said Ang will not push the Boracay bridge project if it is not acceptable to the community.

Ang shook hands with four Aklan officials, including Aklan first district Rep. Jesus “Jess” Marquez. 

Officials, residents, and businesses opposed the project on the ground that no single public consultation was made by SMHC since 2019 and decisions were made for them by DPWH and SHMC. 

Related Tags

Boracay Boracay bridge SMC Malay Aklan
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