Sandcastles in Boracay are back and are seen being built again last September during National Tourism Month. The local government of Malay, Aklan, implemented a temporary halt on sandcastle building back in 2018 because of environmental concerns.
The Boracay sand castles and sculptures were officially seen on September 17, and Boracay Sandcastle Makers’ Association President Demple Pagsuguiron expressed gladness with the government’s decision. On behalf of the organization, they are happy to tell their art and creativity again with different
Boracay sand art.
The Malay Government has established specific regulations after deliberations between Malay Mayor Floribar Bautista and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources or DENR under Municipal Ordinance No. 505.
The set of rules is as follows:
• Sandcastle builders in Boracay must secure their identification cards.
• Smoking and drinking are not allowed in the area.
• Sandcastle building is allowed from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, except during special events.
• Sandcastle builders must maintain proper grooming and show respect and courtesy to tourists.
• Kerosene, candles, and other flammable materials are not allowed; solar lights can be used for illuminating.
• Using chemicals, cement, or other binding equipment is strictly prohibited.
• Charges for tourists who want to take a photo with the Boracay sand castles will only range from PhP20 to PhP50 per person. Tourists who wish to have a customized design will be charged PhP1,000 and PhP3,000.
• Children under 10 years old are exempted from the charges.
• Sandcastle Boracay builders residing in Barangay Yapak can only build sandcastles on their local beach.
• Sandcastle builders must ensure the sand castles are flattened, and the area is cleaned before leaving.
• Sand must not be brought or transferred to other locations.
• A maximum of six sand castle builders can operate in a particular area.
• Minors are not allowed to be part of the sand castle builders’ group.
The return of building sandcastles in Boracay is a step towards reviving the island’s cultural tradition. It is also geared towards the economic well-being of the community while also being aligned with the goals of sustainable tourism and environmental consciousness.
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