Duterte OKs operation of casino in Boracay — Palace

AWAITING TOURISTS Leisure travelers to Boracay Island significantly increased in June, giving residents and business owners hope the island will soon recover from the pandemic-induced economic slump and see more tourists on its still empty beaches, as seen in this photo taken on June 30. —JACK JARILLA

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Saturday announced that President Rodrigo Duterte has green-lighted the operation of a casino in Boracay.

“The President has given his go-signal allowing the operation of a casino in Boracay,” said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque in a statement.

“Prior to this directive, casino establishments have not been operating on the island,” he added.

However, health and safety protocols shall follow restrictions such as the observance of safety and health protocols imposed amid the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring safeguards to keep children or minors away from gambling activities, said Roque.

“This latest presidential pronouncement is part of the revenue-generating efforts of the government to augment funds for COVID-19 response,” Roque noted.

Duterte, in a public address on Thursday, expressed willingness to put a casino on the island resort, reversing his previous pronouncements against gambling, citing the need for additional funds.

/MUF