Although facing overdevelopment issues, the island of Boracay remains to be a beautiful paradise in general. Rock formations, forest areas, mangrove systems, endemic animals, and marine and coastal ecosystems are still present side by side commercial establishments. The great tourism potential of the island has been realized since 1990s, and now Boracay real estate is a vital economic propeller for the island's government. In five or ten years, Boracay is expected to take no halt in its development, especially that good plans have been laid for it to remain a true vacation gem in the southeast.
A peek in 5 to 10 years
Boracay island, with its 1,006.64 hectare land area, is a mixture of man-made establishments and natural spots. In the coming years, the 400 hectares of reserved forest under protection will remain flourishing and untouched, while the 629 hectares of agricultural land will be used for crops production for the natives.
With land holding still unhonoured and small-scale developments controlled, the many hotels and beach resorts in Boracay that exist in Bulabog and other well-developed areas will be upgraded. Less explored areas like Yapak and ManocManoc will see a few establishments crop up. These improvements will come along with infrastructure development, including road expansion and construction, as well as the improvement of portable water systems and sewage services.
Marine parks that have been declared according to the Boracay Beach Management Plan will be protected more than ever, leading to decreased water-related activities in Boracay that are detrimental to sea life and ecosystem. Flying fruit bats that contribute to forest growth will be protected as well, and the capture or disturbance to the island's animal species like dolphins, mantas, and small sharks will be enforced.
Future of tourism
According to Tourism Act of 2009, the government shall “strengthen the role of tourism councils and encourage the participation of non-government organisations, peoples’ organisations, and the private sector in initiating programs for tourism development and environmental protection.” If the Boracay Environmental Master Plan for 2008-2033 is willfully enforced, tourism on the island will continue to grow with less impact on the environment.
Boracay tourism is likely to remain vigorous, especially that structures like five-star hotels, shopping centres, and golf courses are on their way of being established. Yearly tourist influx is set at around two million annually. People will see the island as an ultimate island to relax, rejuvenate, and find their inner peace.
In terms of activities, day and night will become confusable with each other. Populous beaches will hold bars and restaurants that offer music, food, and beverages—all the lively eclat that the island is known today. Accommodations will be more luxurious while keeping prices competitive, with cheap hotels in Boracay still taking some percentage of the profits.
Current defining actions
To keep Boracay from becoming a lost island, local government units must take the initiative to follow the mandates of the government in protecting the island's marine and land ecosystems. These areas offer diversity for tourists, enabling them to take a break from the bustle of the beach. Most especially, development—no matter how big or small—must focus on efficiency, and monitoring of these improvements and their effects must be maintained.
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