DOT: Boracay establishments must accredit

ILOILO CITY–The Department of Tourism (DOT) has asked the management of resorts and other establishments to prepare for the accreditation process for the reopening of Boracay Island in Aklan.

DOT Western Visayas Director Helen Catalbas said Boracay establishments should be ready with their documentation by August because DOT’s accreditation team starts its inspection by the first week of September.

During a recent consultative meeting with Boracay stakeholders, Catalbas said Tourism Undersecretary Arturo Boncato reiterated that only law compliant Boracay establishments will be able to reopen.

DOT will not accredit any establishment that does not comply with the regulations. Catalbas said the establishments must abide by the regulations set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), DOT, and the local government of Malay.

The resort island has been closed to tourists since April 26 and is expected to reopen by end of October or November.

“I believe we all had an understanding that each sector shall police its own ranks by making sure members abide by the rules and regulations to operate,” Catalbas said.

“Boracay stakeholders heartily accepted their shortcomings and are doing their best to be compliant”, Catalbas added.

The meeting with Boracay statekholders aimed to gather collective plans in terms of “compliance, accreditation, trainings, promotions, and marketing.”