ICONIC SUNSET Tourists and locals enjoy the iconic sunset of Boracay Island by setting sail on its waters at dusk. The Philippine Coast Guard in Aklan recently decided to enforce speed limits for vessels operating near the island for maritime safety. —Jack Jarilla
ILOILO CITY, Philippines—The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Aklan will implement a “one entry, one exit” rule and a speed limit for vessels operating between Boracay Island and the mainland town of Malay to bolster maritime safety and improve order in one of the busiest sea lanes in Western Visayas.
Capt. Rodolfo dela Peña Jr., the newly appointed acting commander of PCG Aklan, said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure the safety of the thousands who travel between Boracay and the village of Caticlan, the jump-off point to the island.
“Since Boracay is a premier tourist destination, the PCG has prioritized maritime security and safety of Malay and the whole province of Aklan,” he said in a statement.
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Improve security
In addition to still unspecified speed limits, the PCG is mapping out designated sea lanes, particularly on Boracay’s west coast, to streamline the flow of watercraft and reduce the risk of accidents.
The numerous ferries and boats plying the 15-minute route between Caticlan and Boracay that bring tourists to the island involved at least 28 round trips a day, according to information from travel agencies offering accommodations on the island.
Many of the resorts and hotels on the island also have their own ferries or speedboats to transport their guests directly to their establishments. These resorts also offer water sports facilities, such as water skis, while some entrepreneurs offer island-hopping services.
Sunset sailing for locals and tourists to enjoy the famous sunset on the island is also an activity that is being promoted by the Department of Tourism in Western Visayas.
According to Dela Peña, the one entry, one exit rule to be introduced soon for vessels entering and leaving Boracay is intended to improve traffic management and security.
Dela Peña, the former deputy commander of the PCG Western Visayas District, is no stranger to the area.
Having served at PCG Caticlan in 2011 and 2018, he brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
Chief Petty Officer Joe Marie Capada has also been appointed as the acting commander of PCG Substation Malay, while Ensign Marvince Genzola steps into the role of commander at PCG Substation Boracay.
As the holiday season approaches, the PCG said it was ramping up its operations to ensure smooth and safe sea travel for locals and tourists alike.
Vessel inspections and enforcement operations are being strictly carried out to safeguard passengers and vessels, particularly during the Christmas and New Year rush, it said.
The PCG’s Aklan personnel will undergo further training to enhance their capabilities in maritime safety, search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental protection, and security.
These measures are seen as crucial to maintaining order and safety in the province’s waters, especially as Boracay continues to invite thousands of visitors each year.