Bayan Muna seeks House probe into Boracay shutdown, casino plans

MANILA, Philippines — Rep. Carlos Zarate (Bayan Muna party-list) has asked the House to launch an inquiry into the closure of businesses and establishments on Boracay and the planned construction of a casino and resort there.

Zarate filed House Resolution 1806 directing the committees on natural resources and ecology to conduct an investigation, in aid of legislation, into the temporary shutdown of the island.

“The House of Representatives, through appropriate and immediate actions, must step in to prevent any more damage to Boracay and to the people on the commerce of the island,” he said.

The militant solon noted that while the government ordered the closure of the world-famous island for six months to give way to rehabilitation, it also, at least provisionally, allowed the entry and construction of a casino project.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. granted a provisional license to Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd. for its integrated casino-project in Barangay Manoc-Manoc in Boracay.

“The government must stand and support local small businesses over foreign-owned large businesses. The sale of our lands, resources and work force to foreign corporations have historically destroyed our environment and exploited and endangered our workers without heed,” Zarate said.

READ: What we know so far: Boracay casino projects amid concerns for 'cesspool' island

Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV also filed a resolution seeking to look into President Rodrigo Duterte’s master plan on Boracay’s closure and assess the readiness of government agencies in assisting residents, workers and traders who would be affected by the shutdown.

It also aims to probe the $500 million casino entertainment complex set to be built on the island. 

“It is heartless for the Duterte administration to order the immediate closure of the island without the appropriate plans to help the affected people, especially if this mega-casino's construction in the island will push through,” he said.

READ: Senate probe sought on Boracay closure

The country’s top holiday destination will be closed starting April 26.