Bishop threatens rally vs casino in Boracay

The Catholic bishop in Kalibo, Aklan yesterday threatened to lead demonstrations to show their opposition to the continued planned construction of a casino in the world famous tourist destination Boracay Island.

Kalibo Bishop Jose Romeo Lazo told the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) website that he is vocally opposing to the proposed construction of a casino inside the posh Fairways and Bluewaters Resort located in the northern part of Boracay.

The Diocese of Kalibo has been fighting off casino operations at the 1,000-hectare Boracay Island for the last five years.

Lazo said he would again ask his flock to be vigilant and take a stand against opening a casino complex and expressed willingness to lead a rally. “Let me be clear. I have opposed and will continue to oppose casino gambling. I will not cooperate with any effort to establish casino gaming in Boracay.”

He also sent a “letter of instruction” urging his parishioners especially religious organizations “to unite, pray, reflect and act to express your stand and sentiments against gambling in Boracay.”

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. first pushed the plan of a casino complex in 2003 but President Arroyo ordered it shelved following a public protest.

The prelate sent a letter to the President early last month wherein he relayed his objection to the project but did not receive any reply from Malacañang. “I hope she will come out with a favorable response.”

According to local officials, the complex could boost the local tourism industry, generate more jobs and could help finance development projects on the island, but the bishop believes that the island has survived and thrived all these years as a favorite tourist destination even without a casino.

“Boracay is a natural treasure of Aklanons and the Filipino people. We are for a family-oriented and wholesome island-resort and we therefore want a drug-free and gambling-free Boracay,” he added.