BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan — Fisherfolk here will be allowed to fish within the waters of the island based on the new guidelines set by the interagency for Boracay.
This was in addition to the initial rules set by the interagency for the six months closure, said Senior Supt. Jesus Cambay Jr., commander of the Metro Boracay Task Force in an interview Wednesday.
“Fisherfolk will now be allowed to fish anywhere in Boracay as long as they do not violate any law,” he said.
The interagency also adjusted some security guidelines to be implemented in the island during the island’s closure period, said Cambay.
Based on the adjusted security guidelines, residents will now be allowed to swim in Station 1 of the White Beach instead of Angol Beach. Swimming will be allowed from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
No floating structures shall also be allowed within three kilometers from the shorelines, instead of 15 kilometers.
Cambay said the new allowed distance is more practical.
On Wednesday, the Philippine Coast Guard in Boracay also gathered fisherfolk, boat operators and members of water sports association in the island to inform them of the new guidelines.
Lieutenant Commander Ramil Palabrica of PCG Caticlan said the Cagban Jetty Port would be the main entry and exit for passengers.
He said security at the Manocmanoc Cargo Port would also be strengthened.
Meanwhile, the rest of the guidelines remained the same.
All tourists will not be allowed to enter the island. Only residents, workers and resort owners will be allowed entry subject to presentation of identification cards with specific residence address in any of the three barangays: Manocmanoc, Balabag and Yapak.
Media also have to seek accreditation from the Department of Tourism and will be allowed only until 5 p.m.
Foreign residents in Boracay will also be revalidated by the Bureau of Immigration. (PNA)