Binay hopes environment fees in Boracay won’t be used for ‘fund-raising’

Senator Nancy Binay expressed hope that the fees collected from environmental compliance certificates (ECCs) of businesses operating in Boracay island would not be used for a “fund-raising activity.”

“Let’s start on the right foot. This is where we get to start fresh and be accountable for the environment. Pero ‘wag naman sanang gamitin ang pag-apply ng panibagong permit bilang fund raising activity,” Binay said in a statement on Wednesday.

The senator also asked the government to ensure a “clear and simple to understand, reasonable and practical” reapplication guidelines in Boracay.

“Ang gusto natin ay yung may malinaw na guidelines na hindi sasamantalahin ng iba para ipitin yung mga nag-aapply,” Binay said, adding that there should be only one unified checklist for compliance to avoid confusion.

Binay also noted that local and national government agencies should provide guidance that goes beyond complying with the checklists and other legal requirements.

“Establishment should also understand the importance of the carrying capacity and their optimum limit. Hindi ito dapat natatapos sa pag-comply ng checklist at ibang documentary requirements—may kakambal na responsabilidad din ito,” the senator said.

Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu recently issued a memorandum circular ordering the suspension of all existing ECCs and business permits vis-à-vis their compliance with local and national laws.

Last April, President Duterte issued Proclamation 475 placing Barangays Balabag, Manoc-Manoc and Yapak – all in Boracay – as being under a state of calamity.

This is aside from declaring the closure of the entire island to tourists for six months to “ensure the sustainability of the area and prevent further degradation of its rich ecosystem.”   /vvp