PCG tightens security in Boracay after illegal entry of 5 locals, 1 foreigner

THE PHILIPPINE Coast Guard (PCG) is tightening security around Boracay after five locals and one South Korean were recently apprehended for illegally entering the island that is currently closed to tourists. “They are aware that the island is closed but they still attempted to enter. The visa of the Korean national was proven to have expired so he was deported,” said PCG Caticlan Station chief Ramil A. Palabrica. The six attempted to enter the island between April 26 and May 8. Boracay is closed for rehabilitation work for six months beginning April 26. The local violators, who entered via Bulabog beach, are residents of Boracay and Carabao Island in Romblon Province. Residents can only pass through Caticlan port to Cagban port and vice versa. Cargo vehicles, on the other hand, can enter via Sambiray Cargo. Mr. Palabrica said the six were apprehended by the Metro Boracay Police Task Force and were turned over to the provincial guard at the Caticlan Jetty Port. Aside from violation tickets, they were also fined P3,000 each. Only residents and workers with valid identification cards and passes are allowed access to the island between 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Exemptions are given only for emergency cases. Provincial Ordinance No. 05-32 imposes a “one entry, one exit policy” while Presidential Proclamation 475 has placed Boracay under a state of calamity and temporary closure. —