Boracay casino operations opposed

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The Catholic church and local businessmen have joined calls opposing the revival of casino operations on Boracay Island.

The Diocese of Kalibo and the Boracay Foundation Inc. (BFI) issued a statement declaring they are against the operation of casinos and gambling establishments on the island.

The BFI is a non-stock, non-profit organization representing leading establishments in Boracay including resorts, hotels, restaurants and other businesses.

BFI chairman Dionisio Salme said the foundation suggested in 2018 that casino proponents could relocate their operations to the mainland town of Malay.

Meanwhile, Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc of the Diocese of Kalibo appealed to President Duterte to reconsider his decision and ban casinos in Boracay.

“Boracay is God’s gift to Aklan and to the world. It has become a family destination, a venue for educational advancement and entrepreneurship,” Tala-oc said.

He urged priests in Kalibo as well as the parish pastoral councils and lay organizations to form groups that would oppose gambling on the island.