BORACAY – In light of the proposed closure of this famed island resort, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) in Western Visayas met on Tuesday to come up with a contingency plan.
Director Jose Roberto Nuñez of the Office of Civil Defense 6 said a “general contingency plan” is being drafted in preparation for whatever the government decides to do with Boracay.
President Rodrigo Duterte has yet to decide on the recommendation to close the island for six months.
Nuñez said the regional disaster body, which involves various agencies, is ready to help the affected sector regardless of the decision – total or partial closure, or rehabilitation.
He added that the contingency plan will be finalized during their next meeting, which is possibly next week.
Nicanor Faeldon, deputy administrator III of the Office of the Civil Defense, said all sectors would be considered in creating the final plan.
“We will not leave any sector behind,” Faeldon stressed.
For his part, Guimaras governor Samuel Gumarin, RPOC chairperson, said the impact of the possible closure or rehabilitation could be eased by livelihood projects.
He, however, did not mention any specifics as data gathering is still ongoing.
At least 36,000 workers are expected to lose their jobs once the island is closed to tourists.
Boracay generated P55 billion worth of tourism receipts last year as it accommodated more than 2 million domestic and foreign visitors. (With PNA/PN)
