DENR to file raps vs Boracay resort chain over fake certificate of compliance

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Wednesday said it would file complaints against a Boracay group of resorts after it learned that it falsified its certificate of compliance, required to operate during the reopening of the island.

DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporada said Henann Group of Resorts submitted a fake certificate of compliance to the Department of Tourism. It lacked a control number, seal and release order.

“We will be filing legal actions against them because this kind of action will not be tolerated. This is a big hotel chain in Boracay. But again, Boracay is not owned by the wealthy people alone,” Antiporda said in mixed English and Filipino.  

DENR chief Roy Cimatu said the owner of Henann already apologized and said one of the staff members might have falsified the certificate.

Cimatu, however, said sorry would not do anything as the case entails necessary charges.

Henann Resort Manager in Boracay Dindo Salazar said the resorts group is already conducting an internal probe to determine who was behind the falsification.

“Our president Ms. Helen Lim has not authorized anybody to submit unofficial or fake documents. That is why we are having an investigation which we will update the Boracay Inter-Agency Department in due time,” Salazar said in a recorded interview.

Boracay is currently open to local tourists for the dry run opening. This will take place from October 15 to 25 while the official soft-opening of the world-famous island is slated on October 26.

IN PHOTOS: Boracay set for 10-day island dry run

Over the weekend, the DOT released the list of the 68 establishments that have complied with the requirements of the DENR and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

READ: 68 Boracay hotels get green light for reopening

The DOT warned that establishments not on the list shall not operate.

“All Boracay island accommodation establishments that are not compliant with DILG and DENR requirements and are not yet accredited with the DOT are hereby strongly advised to cease and desist from making room bookings or sale for occupancy starring October 26 until such time that all requirements for opening their establishments are in order,” the DOT said.

The DOT said that all online promotions and other related collaterals should be deleted or put on hold until their full compliance. — Rosette Adel

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