Boracay Island, once associated with wild parties and unrestricted tours, will reopen on Oct. 26 under strict state rules that aim to limit arrivals in the famous tourist destination. Alcohol drinking and smoking will be banned along the beach areas of the island, while only 19,000 tourists will be allowed at any time. The government is imposing the rules to protect the island’s fragile ecosystem. Up to 40,000 beachgoers unwound on its sand and swam in its once-pristine waters during peak periods in the past. Boracay, before President Rodrigo Duterte ordered its closure to visitors in April, attracted two-million tourists annually, pumping about $1 billion in revenues into the economy.

Boracay redux, (2018, October 5). Manila Standard, p. A4.