Boracay – Who hasn’t heard of the word?

Someone who probably has never been to the Philippines, but even people who have never visited the country are familiar with the name. Once they hear it, their minds conjure images of paradise; white sand that is akin to powder, clear sapphire waters, stimulating nightlife, and unforgettable experiences.

If one travels Egypt and skips the Pyramids of Giza, they miss the essence of being in the country. So it is like going to the Philippines and bypassing Boracay. A chunk of the country’s soul will be overlooked. You have never really gotten to know the Philippines, if you haven’t been to one of the most exquisite places in it – the top tourist destination spot, the island of Boracay.

            However there is more to this island than what people know on the surface. The island has a lot of history. Herein lies the oldest ancestors of the Filipinos and Visayan people, which is the Ati tribe. The Ati, also known as the Negrito ethnic group have lived on the island since the 12^th century. They were the very first tribe that inhabited the archipelago. Let’s get to know Boracay skin deep by knowing its original settlers.

Datu Puti

            The Ati tribe arrived in the Philippines from Borneo 20-30,000 years ago. Legend says that at the beginning of the 12th century, A group of 10 Malay chieftains called Datus, fleeing from the island of Borneo, settled in the Philippines. They were granted settlement by the Ati people – the tribes of Panay Island. Datu Puti, Makatunaw’s chief minister made a trade with the natives and bought the plains for a golden salakot (traditional wide brimmed hat of the Filipinos), brass basins and bales of cloth. For the wife of the Ati chieftain, they gave a very long necklace. Feasting and festivities followed soon after.

The culture and history of the Ati tribe is celebrated each year through the Binirayan festival in Antique, a town in Panay which is one hour away from Boracay. Binirayan literally means where they sailed to. Its purpose is to commemorate the arrival of the Ati in the island of Aninipay, which is now Panay, where Boracay is situated. Another festival, which is the Ati-Atihan, literally means to be like the Ati, is also celebrated in Kalibo, a town 30 minutes away from Boracay. People parade, sing and dance in the streets in honor of Santo Nino (the child Jesus). They paint themselves black and wear costumes to be reminded of their earliest ancestors, the Ati.

The Las Vegas of the Philippines

Boracay’s tourism industry generates billions of pesos each year, and that figure continues to grow. Businesses have boomed in the island as well. Boracay contains almost all the ingredients needed for a once in a lifetime experience. There is the spectacular view of the beach, diving spots, extreme sports, shopping, the vibrant nightlife and beautiful, exotic people from all over the globe. It is an island that never sleeps, and even some of the youth today refer to it as “Las Vegas of the Philippines”, what happens in Boracay, stays in Boracay. The party in the island never stops.

Sadly as the commercialization increases, so does materialism and superficiality. What’s truly vital, which is culture, and history are being slowly abated. The Ati tribe has been marginalized and put to the side by businessmen and influential people. The Filipinos are known to glorify having fair skin. Just turn on the television and drive past the billboards. It is impossible not to come across a whitening product being commercialized. Since the Ati tribe possess dark skin, and are not well endowed educationally causing them to live in poverty; they experience a lot of discrimination. Joseph Angan in his article “Beyond the Beach, The Untold Story of Boracay’s Ati Tribe” states:

“The Ati face high unemployment levels in addition to hotels’ encroachment on their native land. Fr. Crisostomo estimates that of the 200 Ati in Boracay, less than 20 work in hotels; and they only get these jobs with the help of the church and the non-profit organization Daughters of Charity. But even so, they experience discrimination from their workmates because of their darker skin and eventually decide to leave. The less fortunate of the Ati end up begging on the beaches.”

The Murder of Dexter Condez

The land they reside in Sito Lugutan was awarded to them by the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) but is still being claimed by other families with big businesses as well, namely the Banicos, Sansons and Gelitos.  This conflict was further heightened when Dexter Condez, 26, who is the Ati tribe’s spokesperson, was murdered on February 2013.

The Ati, are people who believe in non-aggression. Even if this is a desirable approach to life, it has been a disadvantage for them. Since they are unable to be assertive even when they are being driven away by influential families and big corporate bullies in their own land. Dexter Condez was the only Ati at the time highly educated and eloquent enough to represent his people on the claim of land in Boracay. On his way home from school, a security guard from Crown Regency hotel, a business that claims the land in Sitio Lugutan, gunned him down. Justice was served when the suspect Daniel Celestino was captured but the wounds in the Ati tribes’ hearts will take a while to heal.

The death of Dexter may be one of the gloomiest occasions for the Ati tribe but it will slowly revolutionize the Ati’s place in Boracay. The government has now fully acknowledged the Ati tribe and constantly gives support to them. Academics and charitable institutions have also been visiting the community to study their culture and to help the Ati discover what was lost. Among these are groups from the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, the Daughters of Charity, and the Assisi Foundation.

Boracay can be likened to an extremely gorgeous yet easily swayed woman. On the outside she is perfection but what lies underneath – her identity, influenced by many nations, is still a boggling mystery and crises she has to improve on.  Her hair – different shades of clear azure waves, her skin, porcelain with the texture of powder. Her eyes are scarlet, pink and orange like the sunset. Her temperament is 24/7 fun and spontaneous like the nightlife. Her inspirations and tastes are of different variety. She has Greek restaurants, Swiss inns, English breakfast, French crepes, British schools and establishments accommodating Koreans, Japanese, Chinese, Australian and North American tourists.

Acknowledging the Ati tribe is a big step. Just by being informed, eliminating discrimination and working hand in hand to support them, we also help Boracay’s identity rise above the oppression. If the Ati tribe incorporate themselves, their customs, beliefs and language to the dispersing culture of Boracay, they help Boracay build back her identity and originality. 

REFERENCES:

Angan, J. (2013, June 16). Beyond the Beach, The Untold Story of Boracay’s Ati Tribe. Retrieved from http://www.kamustamagazine.ph/beyond-the-beach-the-untold-story-of-boracays-ati-tribe.

Ranada, P. (February 26, 2014). Violence looms over Ati tribe Ancestral Domain in Boracay. Retrieved from http://www.rappler.com/nation/51635-ati-tribe-security-threat-ancestral-domain.

IMAGE SOURCE: Wikepedia

 

 

The Philippines comprises 7,107 islands, each possessing unique and mystical beauty unlike no other in the world; just like a snowflake, each endowed with its own intricate design. Boracay, which is located in Panay, has been the famous go to place in the Philippines for foreign travellers.

It is like Kobe Bryant in the world of basketball – very famous, well loved and has been the most valuable player multiple times. On the other side of the mainstream, are the unknown players whose beauty is still unripe. Its treasure not discovered; its potential still unexplored. Take a journey with me as we look at the underdogs of Panay island in the Philippines and discover its mysterious magnificence. There is more to Panay island than Boracay!

What we will encounter is untapped beauty that is at par with that of the Philippines’ most visited site, Boracay.

First, let us familiarize ourselves with the island of Panay. Panay is an island in the Philippines located in the western part of the Visayas. Politically, it is divided into four provinces: Aklan, Antique, Capiz, and Iloilo, all in the western Visayas region. Panay is one of Philippines’ most fertile islands. During the early part of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, the Spanish Augustinian friar Gaspar de San Agustín, described Panay as:

“…very similar to that of Sicily in its triangular form, as well as in it fertility and abundance of provision. It is the most populated island after Manila and Mindanao, and one of the largest (with over a hundred leagues of coastline). In terms of fertility and abundance, it is the first.

It is very beautiful, very pleasant, and full of coconut palms… Near the river Alaguer (Halaur), which empties into the sea two leagues from the town of Dumangas…in the ancient times, there was a trading center and a court of the most illustrious nobility in the whole island.”

AKLAN

Our first province to behold is Aklan. Aklan is in the northwest portion of Panay island, bordering Antique province to the southwest, and Capiz province to the east. It’s capital is Kalibo.

Ever heard of the Ati-atihan festival? If you haven’t its one of the famous festivals in the Philippines which celebrates the Santo Nino (child Jesus). It is celebrated in the capital of Aklan, Kalibo. Held on the month of January, locals parade in the streets, dress colorfully like the Ati tribe (the Philippines’ first inhabitants and oldest ancestors) and drink and feast all day long. It is engrossing to watch the parade that fills the streets with vibrancy and jubilation. Ati-atihan is an event that is definitely on the itinerary of explorers looking to see what is outside of Boracay.

A hidden gem in Aklan is a place very similar to what we read about in fairy tales. Think forests with scenic pathways that are inhabited by fairies, crickets, colorful flora and fauna – a Mangrove plantation. Kalibo’s Bakhawan Eco-Park is a 220 hectare Mangrove forest established in 1990. It is known to be the most diverse natural growth mangrove community not just across the Philippines, but in Southeast Asia as well! The century-old “Apiapi” trees are exotic mangroves in the Philippines, and it is found in the eco-park. Not only is it a spectacular home to many species. This mangrove is a humanitarian project as well. Jed Rosell, of Biyaherongbarat.com and a co travel blogger wrote:

“The local government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the non-government organizations such as United Services and Welfare Assistance Group (USWAG) Development Foundation and Kalibo Save The Mangroves Association led by Atty. Allen Quimpo, an environmentalist and former political leader in Aklan, took action against the problem by turning the muddy shoreline into a mangrove reforestation site starting with 50-hectares expanding three times the size as the project progresses.

The community-based project did not only address the baranggay’s flood problems but also gave a means of livelihood for the participants. Areas were assigned to KASAMA members/families to maintain and manage. In return, they receive salaries and also allowed to harvest mud crabs and shell fishes within the allocated site. The Mangrove Reforestation Project has served the local communities in two ways, as a sustainable solution against flooding, and a means of income.”

Another nature’s work of art found in Aklan is the Jawili Falls. The Jawili falls is located in Baranggay Jawili in Tangalan, Aklan. Jawili falls is made up of seven cascades and emerald green basins, truly a distinctive sight to view. Its fresh and cool waters, straight from the mountain is refreshing for any traveller up for a swim. Its waters range from 130 to 540 square feet with a depth of eight to ten feet.

ANTIQUE

Our next destination will be the province of Antique. If you are more of an explorer of the off-beaten path, Antique is the perfect place for you. Antique is located in the western portion of Panay island and borders Aklan, Capiz and Iloilo to the east. Antique’s natural resources include springs, waterfalls, beaches and mountains that are glorious finds for trekkers and backpackers.

Pandan, which is a fourth class municipality in the province of Antique is home to the Bugang River which is a multi-awardee for the cleanest inland body of water in the Philippines. The Bugang (which means “magnificent” in kinaraya, the dialect of Pandananons) river is about five kilometers long of cool, turquoise water. It stretches between the western end of the Malumpati Health Spring (another of Pandan’s popular tourist sites) and the Pandan Bay portion of the South China Sea. One would see a bedrock of lime stones, riparian forests and aquatic plants while boating through the Bugang river.

Malumpati Health Spring resort is connected to the Bugang river. It’s the most famous destination for a weekend getaway for the locals in Pandan. Families have picnics and reunions during the weekend in this health spring resort. One can trek to the head spring, go on a river cruise on a raft from Malumpati to Bugang or zip line. Malumpati is also known for its enigmatic head spring. The head spring is a very mystical place. Divers have tried to discover how deep the head spring is but they were only able to reach up to 50 feet deep. It is an underground river and the currents underneath make it a dangerous endeavor for the divers to go deeper than 50 feet. Visitors of Pandan, Antique can find a hospitable and cozy home in Pandan Beach Resort. The resort caters to customers and gives package tours of Bugang River, Malumpati, Sebaste, Culasi and Tibiao.

Tibiao is another fourth class municipality in Antique that nature lovers and adventurers will love to visit. It is home to the wild Tibiao river, Bugtong Bato falls, the Kawa (cauldron) bath, the very first fish spa in the Philippines. Bugtong-Bato falls in Tibiao is similar to Jawili falls of Aklan because it has seven cascades. One can rappel from the second cascade to the third cascade and feel like Tarzan. On the hike to the falls is a scenic background of plush green mountains, the Tibiao river and several rice terraces. The Tibiao river is perfect for kayaking. Different parts of the river cater to easy, moderate and difficult levels for a white water river kayaker. It hosted the first “International Kayaking Cup,” which was initiated by Tibal Adventures, Inc. in 1997. After a long and hard day of adventure, travellers can relax in the Kawa (cauldron) bath (don’t worry, you will not get cooked ☺) and get their feet cleaned naturally by fish devouring dead skin cells in the Tibiao fish spa.

Another rare jewel found in Antique is Seco island (which means elbow in Kiniraya). It is an uninhabited island located North east of the Sulu Sea with 1.5 kilometers stretch of sand and shallow clear sea, this island is a crown jewel of Antique and probably one of the best kept secrets of the province. This island is part of Tibiao Antique. It was first discovered by fishermen as a sanctuary. They sought refuge from their fishing excursions in Seco island in times of bad weather. Up until today, it is visited by fishermen to sun dry their fish.

It is a great site for camping, where one can pin a tent on the sandbar and escape the realities of the modern world. Kite surfers also frequent this site as it was considered by Yahoo Philippines as one of the top five kite boarding spots in the Philippines. There are no infrastructure, no trees and definitely no vendors on the island. Commercialization hasn’t begun to corrupt this jewel in Panay.

ILOILO

Next stop – the city of smiles, Iloilo! This is because the disposition if its people are exultant and the manner in which they speak is endearing. Iloilo is a province whose capital is Iloilo city. It occupies the southeast portion of Panay island and is bordered by province of Antique to the west and province of Capiz and the Jintotolo channel to the north. Just off Iloilo’s southeast coast is the island province Guimaras, once part of Iloilo but now an independent province.

Like Aklan, Iloilo celebrates Santo Nino (child Jesus) in its Dinagyang Festival, held every third week of January. The Iloilo Dinagyang Festival is a showcase of the rich heritage, colorful history, passionate devotion, and fun-loving spirit of the Ilonggos.

Iloilo is also known for its historical churches. These churches are a symbol of the glorious past. Its grand architecture will make you marvel at the elaborate religious designs and art sculpted and painted at the murals of the church. Among these is the Miag-ao church which was built in 1787. It is one of the four baroque churches in the Philippines inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Another is the Parish of St. Anne situated in Molo. The church takes pride in having a gothic-renaissance architecture. A trip to Iloilo will not be complete without paying a visit to its most treasured religious assets -Iloilo’s grandiose colonial-era churches.

The Gigantes islands are another destination in the unknown gems of Panay island which is in Iloilo. It lies 21 kilometers northeast of Carles town proper, which is about 145 km from Iloilo City. It includes 10 islands, the biggest of which are Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur that have two villages each. Gigantes islands houses numerous caves. One is Bakwitan cave. It is known to be an evacuation site and refuge by residents fleeing Japanese soldiers during World War II, the cave also served as shelter for families when Super Typhoon Yolanda struck in November last year. A lot of history and culture can be found within the confines of the cave as shards of pottery believed to be centuries old can still be found inside it, along with human bones as the caves are believed to have been ancient burial grounds.

The Bantigue Island Sandbar is another famous site in Gigantes islands, which is accessible only during low tide. In addition is Cabugao Gamay Island, considered the most photographed among the islands’ attractions because of its picturesque rock formations, white sand beach, sprawling coconut trees and fresh clear waters.

Cabugao Gamay, which is a few minutes away is where the Tangke saltwater lagoon is nestled between towering rock formations. If the place is devoid of a crowd and pays close attention, monkeys can be spotted peeking from, and climbing over, the rock formations. Antonia Beach, another spot closeby; is popular for its two long and parallel stretches of white-sand beach. The islet is also a favorite spot for snorkeling, camping and other beach activities.

CAPIZ

Our final destination – 
Capiz. It is a 1st class province of the. Its capital is Roxas City and is located at the northeastern portion of Panay Island, bordering Aklan and Antique to the west, and Iloilo to the south.

When Filipinos hear Capiz one word enters their minds, and that is seafood! It is known to be the seafood capital of the Philippines and is among the top 15 most frequently visited places in the Philippines. To get a taste of the freshly caught seafood, a visit to the Baybay beach is a must. It ‘s wide coastline and fine black sand is ideal for romantic strolls with your sweetie, playing by the beach with your kids and skimboarding on the shore with your friends. One can enjoy the many restaurants that serve the freshest seafood at Baybay beach as well.

Breathtaking are the places that are hidden in Panay isn’t it? There’s so much to explore, experience and conquer; so much to write down but so limited the space to capture the splendor of Panay. What I have covered doesn’t do justice to the many wondrous sites that make up the whole of Panay. Somewhere lurking around the corner is another new paradise waiting to be discovered. There’s a saying that goes “just the tip of the iceberg”.

Boracay, in this case, is just the tip of the iceberg when we talk about the grandeur and mystique of Panay. There’s so much to delve in deep down and know. It can also be said that Panay’s beauty is just the tip of the iceberg when we talk about what the 7,107 islands of the Philippine archipelago. Boracay has so many neighbors that are as stunning and it’s high time that we go beyond what we know, dive into unfathomable depths to the splendidness waiting to be discovered and become more aware and educated with nature’s art that is in Panay island.

REFERENCES:

Francisco Colin, S.J., Labor euangelica, ministerios apostolicos de los obreros de la Compañia de Iesus : fundacion, y progressos de su Prouincia en las islas Filipinas historiados, Madrid:1663, Lib. I, Cap. VII, p. 63.

Rosell, J. (2014, January 14). Kalibo, Aklan: Bakhawan Eco-Park & Research Centre. Retrieved from http://biyaherongbarat.com/2014/01/14/kalibo-aklan-bakhawan-eco-park-research-centre/

Abbas, J. (2012, April 4). Kalibo more than a Gateway to Boracay. Retrieved from http:// www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/04/18/12/kalibo-more-gateway-boracay

Pandan’s Bugang River. Retrieved from http://www.pandanbeachresort.com

Detourist, M. (2014, July 1). Tibiao, Antique – an Eco-Adventure Destination in Panay. Retrieved from: http://www.exploreiloilo.com/guide/tibiao-antique-ecoadventure-destination-panay/

Villareal, M. (2014, June 15). Seco Island in Tibiao Antique: A Paradise worth Protecting. Retrieved from: http://outoftownblog.com/seco-island-tibiao-antique-paradise-worth-protecting/

Hilotin, G. (2013, March 25). 7 Must See Churches in Iloilo. Retrieved from: https://ph.news.yahoo.com/blogs/pinay-solo-backpacker/7-must-see-churches-iloilo-073859221.html

Burgos, N. (2014, May 7). Paradise found on Islands of Giants. Retrieved from: http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/159094/paradise-found-on-islands-of-giants

 

When foreigners travel the Philippines, a place that never eludes them is Boracay. It has to be in the itinerary! Known as one of the best beaches in Asia as well as in the world, to miss out on the Boracay experience, is sacrilege in the eyes of explorers.

To go beyond acquaintance and develop a deeper friendship, one must get to know a person, not just by the superficialities such as preferences and hobbies but by the experiences one has gone through the past, to be what one is. You never really know someone unless you’ve learned his /her background; and so it is with this piece of art from God called Boracay – we will not know this sanctuary entirely until we explore the history.

Figure 1. Boracay island (image retrieved from http://boracay-resorts.net)

Yapak, Balabag & Manoc Manoc

Boracay island is 7 kilometers long and is situated approximately 315 km or 196 miles south of Manila. It is 2 km off the northwest tip of Panay island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It comprises three barangays, namely Yapak in the north, Balabag in the middle and Manoc Manoc to the south. Boracay’s ecology is rich, as it houses lush tropical jungles and several beaches. The island is governed by the Philippine Tourism Authority and the provincial government of Aklan.

The word Boracay is said to have originated from many different terms. One story says that it is derived from the local word “borac” which means white cotton, it isn’t hard to fathom as to why, since Boracay’s sand is very comparable to the texture and color of cotton, soft and white. Another credits the name to native words “bora,” meaning bubbles, and “bocay,” meaning white. Yet another account dating back to the Spanish era says the name is derived from “sagay,” the word for shell, and “boray,” the word for seed and handled by Aklan province in Panay, became independent. Sofia Gonzales Tirol and her husband Lamberto Hontiveros Tirol, a town judge on nearby Panay island, took ownership of substantial properties on the island around 1900 and planted coconuts, fruit trees, and greenery on the island. Others followed the Tirols, and cultivation and development of the island gradually spread from this initial beginning.

Too Late The Hero

During the 1970s, the Film “Too Late the Hero ” had its setting in Boracay and Caticlan, afterwards, the island gradually became renowned. Although others maintain that the one that really let the secret out was German traveler Jens Peters’ book, which included crazed reviews of Boracay. Whichever story is true, it was around this time that Boracay island slowly ceased to be a private travelers hangout and eventually became a favorite tourist destination in the Philippines. During the ‘90s, Boracay’s beaches were being acclaimed as best in the world. In 2012 it was awarded as the best island in the world from the international travel magazine Travel + Leisure.

A place like Boracay is not bound to be humble and unknown. The island’s beauty and potential has become recognized worldwide. Many businessmen, local and foreign have established their refuge in Boracay and helped it become a thriving island that it is today. Hotels, restaurants and events increase annually. Although it is never going to be a very private and modest island that it once was; it is an island that gives advantage to the tourism in the Philippines. It opens opportunities to the Filipinos; and people from all over the globe keep coming back for more to experience Boracay’s timeless allure.

Boracay – its etymology comes from the local word “Borac” which means white cotton. Just like the feel of its sand, soft as cotton, and the color that personifies Boracay – white: unsoiled and pure.

Boracay is regarded as paradise on earth. So the word, is actually very apt. However, with every paradise, there will be a Lucifer. An antagonist that goes against the rules of God that leads him packing and creating the opposite of heaven, hell. It is the nature of the universe; opposites do exist.

Yin and yang subsists to create some balance. Just like in a paradise such as Boracay, it is inescapable that some go through the unbeaten and malicious path. Instead of reveling in its purity and beauty, there are events that have turned Boracay’s reputable nature into a threatening one.

Boracay today is not just an oasis. It is also likened to a city in itself. With innumerable hotels, businesses, restaurants and important events held all year round. We can consider Boracay to be a city with a picturesque beach. The island is active 24/7. Some youths even call it “Las Vegas of the Philippines”, and we all can imagine what goes on in the city of Las Vegas where fun, vagary, interesting happenings and even more interesting people transpire. It is unavoidable that in these circumstances, there will emerge some crooked individuals who will take advantage of the weak, thus petty crimes such as mauling, pickpocketing and theft grow rampant in the island.

“Crimes against Foreign Tourists in Boracay Alarming”

Boy Zabal, a writer in the Aklan Forum wrote about some grueling crimes that occurred in the island in his article “Crimes against Foreign Tourists in Boracay Alarming”. Two “lady boys” victimized a Russian national named Kirill Bukhartecev a couple months back. The two suspects stole Kirill’s iphone 5 and 2500 pesos cash. This happened after the victim refused to go with the two back to their boarding house after a night out at a club. They forcibly took his belongings. The two were later charged with robbery and coercion. Another ill-fated incident happened to a Swedish national named Lena.  She was offered a motorcycle ride back to her hotel at 1:30 am. Being very trusting, since the locals can appear amicable, she obliged. She was dumbfounded when the suspect, Jessie Lozada, took her to an isolated hilly area and raped her. Lozada was soon charged with rape before the Aklan Prosecutor’s Office. Two Swedish nationals Rolengemar Sundell  and  Amalia Wela were victims also of theft while they were sleeping in their hotel room in Station 3 in Barangay Manoc-Manoc. The intruders fled and stole their laptop, cellphone and cash amounting to 63,000 pesos. The suspects have not been found.

The island is not spared its share of the most gruesome crimes as well.  The most tragic deaths reported are the death of John Cowperthwaite, art dealer Manfred Schoeni, German developer Anton Forstenhausler and their helper Irma Sarmiento in 2004; they bore multiple stab wounds, and were found dead on their beds in Forstenhauer’s villa on the island. The suspect has not been recognized. On 2007, A Brit was sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering his wife. The most controversial and recent one is the murder of Dexter Condez.

The Ati Tribe

Dexter was the representative of the Ati Tribe, the first aboriginals of the Philippines and the island. The Ati tribe has been experiencing a lot of discrimination and oppression by the growing mainstream commercialism of the island. They are forced to flee from their own land, and have been denied of their identity and place from their own home. Although they have already been awarded the 2.1-hectare property they inhabit by the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP), other claimants have been fighting for the land as well. The security guard of Crown Regency Hotel, Daniel Celestino, shot Dexter, on his way home from school on February 2013. This angered the Ati community and raised awareness to the government to help the Ati tribe.

Despite all the tragic events that happened, there is a sliver of light in the dark cloud. The Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC), which is headed by Officer-in-charge, Fidel Gentallan, have been successful in preventing crime in the island. In 2013 they garnered a lot of achievements. One most important accomplishment by BTAC was the capture of 21 wanted persons, including Caticlan’s Top 9 most wanted named Marcel Duschletta, a Swedish national; Kim Jin Soo, wanted for embezzling 125 million pesos; and Park Hee Soon, wanted for illegal gambling and was facing deportation. BTAC also conducted drug raids, which resulted in the arrest of 26 persons in its 22 operations. All suspects received non-bailable cases filed in the Higher Court. BTAC also achieved other accomplishments in 2013 – the promotion of four of its personnel; the winning of its Boracay Action Group (BAG) as the Best Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team in Region VI; and other recognitions from its involvement in environmental, community, and school projects.

Crimes can be sometimes controlled if travellers are more aware and informed. It’s always advisable to keep one’s belongings at sight. Simple things such as locking the door and closing one’s purse can avert a thief to take action. Since Boracay is a party island, a lot people will definitely be inebriated during the nighttime. It is always safe to travel among friends and a big group. Women, especially, shouldn’t walk alone at night and be too trusting of strangers. Crimes happen everywhere, no place in the world will be spared, even such a beautiful paradise such as Boracay. But despite its numerous crimes, it still thrives in being a one-of-a-kind getaway, and it is more often than not that justice will always prevail. The good always conquers the bad.