Boracay imposes stricter penalties vs sand thieves

CEBU, Philippines - Boracay Island’s legendary powdery white sands may be a tempting souvenir to bring home, but visitors to the famous island should now think twice before doing so.

According to an August 22 report from the PIA, authorities of Malay, Aklan where Boracay is located have recently amended Municipal Ordinance 310, which bans people from collecting white sand and pebbles from the island’s beaches and imposes stricter penalties on those who would be caught doing so.

Under the amendments, first-time offenders will be fined P2,500 or imprisoned for one to three months, or be both fined and imprisoned, depending on the decision of the court.

Meanwhile, second-time or subsequent sand thieves will be penalized with three to six months imprisonment.

Presidents, managers, administrators, owners or proprietors of business establishments caught in violation of the ordinance will also be fined P2,500 and/or imprisoned for one to six months. Their business permits may also be revoked.

The ordinance also stipulates that offenders return extracted white sand and pebbles to the beaches where they were taken.