Boracay, Bohol to shift to ‘lenient’ quarantine

BORACAY, Philippines — Tourist destinations Boracay and Bohol may shift to a ”lenient” modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), according to presidential spokesman Harry Roque.

“We have options to encourage domestic tourism if possible... We know that Bohol and Boracay are favorite destinations,” Roque told a press briefing on Tuesday.

“They are now under GCQ. It is possible that they will be placed under MGCQ in the coming days, where 50 percent of tourism is allowed,” he said.

Tourism is not yet allowed in areas under GCQ.

Tourist areas may reopen under MGCQ, but only on a 50 percent capacity.

Boracay task force

Meanwhile, President Duterte extended the term of office of the task force created to oversee the rehabilitation of Boracay.

In Executive Order 115 issued on May 11, the President said the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force would remain until May 8, 2021 unless extended again or terminated.

The President noted that two years after the creation of the task force, some structures on the island have yet to be cleared while several establishments have yet to comply with road easement requirements.

“There is a need to complete critical projects in Boracay island pursuant to the Boracay Action Plan,” Duterte had said.

The extension of the term of the task force will allow the government to finish projects, such as the improvement of the water drainage system, demolition of remaining establishments on forest land and wetland areas as well as enforcement of beach and road easements on the island.

Duterte ordered the task force to publish a report on its accomplishments, including the total budget used.