Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo- Puyat said that famous tourist spot, El Nido in Palawan, will not be closed to tourists while undergoing rehabilitation unlike what happened in Boracay island.
The secretaries of tourism, environment, and interior departments went to El Nido on Wednesday to discuss the rehabilitation efforts in the area.
“I have to repeat, no closure ang El Nido unlike what happened to Boracay,” said Puyat.
“As a whole, the three of us (Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu, Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano) are happy and we met about a month ago, and LGU (local government unit) has been very responsive, so we really will not go for closure but only rehab,” she added.
Puyat emphasized that local ordinances should be strictly enforced, particularly the carrying capacity, in order to protect the area.
“I would like to commend ang LGU… ipinapatupad na nila ang local ordinance on carrying capacity ng lagoon,” said Puyat.
Previously, the tourism chief said that the actions that were undertaken in Boracay will also be “replicated” in other major tourist destinations that needs rehabilitation.
Puyat then also urged local government officials to ensure that they follow environmental laws and standards to protect their tourist destinations from degradation. (Annalou de Vera)
