RECOGNIZING the gravity of problems facing El Nido in Palawan, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources will enforce its policies to help minimize the negative impact of tourism pressure on the area.
Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said El Nido, one of the country’s top tourist spots, is beset with problems of diminishing water quality, biodiversity loss, flooding, and proliferation of informal settlers, business establishments and structures without permit as well as a host of other problems.
“I want people to experience the beauty of El Nido and other natural wonders of our country for as long as possible,” he said. “That is why I have instructed all personnel of the department to address such priorities as clean water, clean air, and solid waste management—issues that are even more pressing for island tourist destinations like El Nido and Boracay.”
In line with Cimatu’s directive, officials of DENR in Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan have identified El Nido as a priority area.
“We do not want El Nido to face the same problem as Boracay,” Mimaropa regional director Natividad Bernardino said.
She was referring to the worsening garbage problem and water contamination due to unregulated activities in Boracay.
“We value El Nido’s contribution to the economy of Palawan and of the country. We cannot help, however, but worry that the magnitude of tourist activities in El Nido is already way beyond its carrying capacity,” she said.
Citing the 2016 report of the El Nido municipal tourism office, the DENR said tourist arrival in the town has increased by more than 30 percent annually in the last three years with last year reaching almost 200,000.
“This does not only mean increased revenue for the town but also increased demand for fresh water, timber, and other construction materials, use of fuel and consumer goods, and activities in the islands, all of which exert tremendous pressure on the rich biodiversity of El Nido,” it added.
Accoring to Bernardino, the protected area management board of El Nido-Taytay protected area has already passed a resolution limiting tourist entry and activity in three of the most visited places in El Nido.