Aerial photo shows exposed land, road networks in Boracay’s last green zone

The site falls within what is classified as forestland under Presidential Proclamation No. 1064. Signed in 2006 by Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, it set aside portions of Boracay for protection and management.

The development has renewed scrutiny over Barangay Yapak, where environmental groups have repeatedly called for stronger conservation measures.

During the island’s 2018 rehabilitation, the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force identified portions of the northern area as potential Critical Habitat due to the presence of important wildlife species, including endangered flying foxes.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources later recommended formal protection of these areas. But no administrative order has been issued to declare the site as a Critical Habitat, leaving questions regarding its long-term protection and management.

The issue is further complicated by overlapping policies, including 2005’s Presidential Proclamation No. 803, which classified parts of Barangay Yapak as a Tourism Economic Zone.

Environmental advocates have warned that the discussion extends beyond legal classifications and land ownership concerns. They have flagged the continuing reduction of forest cover on the island, which affects its ecological balance.

Forested areas help regulate temperature, absorb rainwater, reduce erosion, and support wildlife. Ultimately, these help maintain Boracay’s environmental conditions as a tourism site.

Conservation groups are now pushing for a comprehensive Forest Land Use Plan to guide development while protecting Boracay’s remaining forestlands.

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