[ Manila Bulletin Online ] May 13, 2008
BORACAY ISLAND — There is no hindrance to the disposal of agricultural lands on the island into eco-tourism projects as House Bill No. 1109 was passed on the final and third reading by the House of Representatives last week.
House Bill 1109, authored by Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores, allows the disposition of agricultural lands under the Public Land Act for residential, industrial and commercial uses, and for eco-tourism developments.
The measure was approved by the Congress on April 30.
Boracay Island, a 1,032 hectare tropical land, is considered the jewel of the Philippines and the pride of the country’s booming tourism sector.
The approval of the House measure will enable tourism authorities to explore more ways to attract other tourists, especially those interested in eco-tourism.
Presently, tourists going to Boracay enjoy the island’s beachside attractions.
The development of more areas in the island for eco-tourism will provide tourists with more ways to enjoy their visits.
Tourist arrivals registered 596,748 in 2007 compared to 558,084 in 2006, the Department of Tourism (DoT) data showed.
A comprehensive land use and development plan was formulated and solid waste management system had been constructed to address concerns on unregulated development in the island.
President Arroyo made tourism a priority agenda for economic recovery.
She earlier issued Presidential Proclamation 1064 declaring 60 percent of the island as alienable and disposable to provide more security of tenure to occupants of certain parcels of land.
A group of businessmen and resort owners in the island however sought to recall PP 1064, citing the adverse impact to development and foreign investments.
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