Duterte approves 6-month closure of Boracay, starting April 26

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte discusses matters with Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go prior to the start of 24th Cabinet Meeting at the Malacañang Palace on April 4, 2018. RICHARD MADELO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

President Rodrigo Duterte approved on Wednesday the closure of Boracay for six months, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said.

“Bora closed for six month effective 26 April,” Roque said.

Duterte made the approval during the 24th Cabinet meeting in Malacañang on Wednesday.

In a text message, Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra said the proposal of the interagency committee tasked with reviewing the rehabilitation of Boracay was approved.

“DENR/DOT/DILG proposal approved after an exhaustive discussion,“ Guevarra said.

He said calamity funds would be activated to help workers affected by the closure.

Roque said the President would declare a state of calamity in Boracay. /atm