EDITORIAL - So what is really up at Boracay?

First it was generally thought that Boracay would be shut down. Period. That was because it was only President Duterte who did the talking. Having discovered that Boracay had become, in his words, a cesspool, he ordered it closed. This sent everyone scurrying. A flurry of inspections ensued. Demolitions and other related activities of belated and feigned concern for the environment came in succession.

Then came recommendations for a six-month closure. No, make it a year, said another. Now it is back to just six, but make it after the summer. It is clear that after the president stopped talking, a cacophony of other voices has taken over, all sounding official and authoritative. Is this what the president wanted. Did he simply open a Pandora's Box with no intent to slam the lid down again?

Unless the president speaks up again and says clearly what he really wants to happen after his initial tirade, it is feared nothing will really happen in that paradise island. For one thing, the real culprits in the mess, the local officials who looked the other way while Boracay was raped and ravaged, have never really been thrust into the equation.

All that have been run after are the violators of health and environmental standards and requirements. Those who are supposed to look after and safeguard the island have been spared the blame and indignation. Is it because they are politicians and, therefore, harder to pursue by other politicians? Unless these people are held to account, the problem besetting Boracay now will never be solved.

Remember, the violators only succeeded in their violations because no one from among the responsible officials lifted a finger against them. If responsible officials had remained true to their responsibilities, there would not have been any violations to speak of. And without any violations to speak of, there would have been no need for anyone to describe Boracay as a cesspool, least of all the president.

But it was open season in Boracay since the very beginning. All that everyone wanted was to cash in while Boracay lasted. But obviously even Boracay can only take so much, which is why it is in the situation it is in. And yet, down on all fours, Boracay continues to be kicked, in the guise of trying to help it up. The real story is not being told. So where are you, Mr. President? Why don't you speak up again? Your cesspool is being pissed at.

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