For Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Boracay’s rehabilitation was a wake-up call to everyone.
“It inspired a movement to take care of our tourist spots because it showed what would happen if we didn’t. We always remind them that our natural wonders, which provide jobs to many, won’t last if we don’t do our part in actively preserving them,” Puyat told Lifestyle.
She shares some concrete steps Filipinos can take to ensure that these tourist spots continue to flourish.
1. Don’t litter: Throw your trash in the right bin.
2. Ask for permission first before taking a picture with the locals.
3. Leave all the shells, starfish and sand where they belong.
4. Buy local products.
5. Don’t touch, feed or startle whale sharks.
6. Bring a reusable water bottle.
7. In cultural and heritage sites, take a walk instead of using a vehicle.
8. Bring your own toiletries and say no to sachets.
9. Observe site rules and regulations.
10. Take your parties off the beach.
11. Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching the corals.