Only about a third of Boracay’s 440 hotels, resorts and inns are ready for the island’s reopening on Oct. 26, according to Interior Undersecretary Epimaco Densing, although this may still increase as establishments comply with various requirements. Establishments would be allowed to reopen only if they have connected to the island’s main sewer line or have their own sewage treatment plants and have secured all the required local government and environment permits, Densing said. President Duterte, who ordered Boracay’s closure to tourists for six months so it could be rehabilitated, earlier described the island as a “cesspool.”

Salaverria, L. B., & Burgos, N. P. Jr. (2018, August 21). Just 1 of 3 Boracay Businesses ready to reopen. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A4.