BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The world-class Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan may soon be declared a gun-free zone, according to the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6).
Brigadier General Jack Wanky, PRO-6 director, said the proposal for a gun-free zone aims to enhance the island’s security and maintain its reputation as a safe haven for both local and international tourists.
“Declaring the island as a gun-free zone will significantly contribute to the overall security of this premier tourist destination,” Wanky said.
The initiative involves prohibiting the carrying of firearms within the island’s premises, with plans to establish firearm depository areas for licensed gun holders. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety of visitors and residents alike, fostering a more secure environment for tourism.
To implement this proposal, Wanky emphasized the importance of collaboration with local government units (LGUs).
“This model could also be adopted by other LGUs in their respective tourism areas, but it requires the passage of local ordinances to provide legal backing,” he explained.
Currently, PRO-6 is actively engaging with the Malay LGU to explain the purpose of the gun-free zone and explore ways the local leadership can support this initiative.
Once approved, Wanky said Boracay’s gun-free zone could set a precedent for other tourist destinations in the region, creating a ripple effect that bolsters safety in key areas across the Philippines./PN
