KALIBO, Aklan – Opposition is again mounting against a bill creating the Boracay Island Development Authority (BIDA).
Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Jupiter Aelred Gallenero described the proposed measure as “grossly disadvantageous” to the people of Aklan and the local government of Malay, Aklan because BIDA will control and manage the island.
The special development zone proposal for Boracay also violates the fiscal autonomy of local government units and contrary to the Local Government Code of 1991, he added.
The bill was filed by Bicol Saro party-list’s Cong. Nicolas Enciso III, Camarines Sur 5th District’s Cong. Miguel Luis Ricafuerte, Camarines Sur 1st District’s Cong. Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata and Camarines Sur 2nd District’s Cong. Luis Raymund Villafuerte Jr.
House Bill No. 1085 is now at the House Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization since July 27, 2022.
The solons propose that BIDA oversee the continued rehabilitation and ensure sustainable development of the island. Once enacted into law, BIDA will formulate policies, plans and programs for the preservation, rehabilitation, and enhancement of Boracay Island.
The development zone to include the entirety of Boracay Island and Barangay Caticlan in mainland Malay will be transformed into a self-sustaining industrial, commercial, leisure, financial and investment center to generate employment opportunities and attract and promote productive local and foreign investments, while prioritizing the protection and preservation of the natural resources and biodiversity of Boracay Island.
Among the provisions of BIDA bill are the formulation and implementation of Boracay Action Plan geared towards investment sustainability and balanced development of a Boracay Island and ensure the protection of the cultural heritage of the island.
Two years ago, the local government units in Caticlan and Manocmanoc strongly questioned the consolidated BIDA bills that would create a government-owned and controlled corporation to take over the management and governance of Boracay Island./PN
