Sand extraction endangers Batanes’ tourist spot

SABTANG, Batanes, Philippines — A group of concerned citizens in this island–municipality is opposing the extraction of sand from the island’s main tourist spot.

The Sabtang Association Against Graft and Corruption was referring to the Rock Arc, the island’s major revenue earner located four kilometers away from the town proper.

Every tourist arriving on the island on a motorboat pays P200 in tourism fee. At least 250 visitors come to the area every day.

“The government project is endangering the foundation of the arc,” a member of the group, who requested anonymity, said.

“Big waves that may hit by this time of the year can wipe out the arc,” he added.

A concrete road is being constructed from the highway to the arc.

The firm handling the road construction reportedly sub-contracted the project to a local politician known for extracting sand anywhere without securing permits from the government.

The sand being used in the project is sourced from the arc without the permission of the local government, the group said.