Boracay imposes Good Friday silence

The local government of Malay, Aklan has announced a temporary ban on parties and events with loud music in Boracay Island as part of its solemn observance of Holy Week.

Under Memorandum Order No. 2025-33, the municipality will halt the issuance of special permits for parties and similar activities from 6 a.m. on Good Friday, 18 April, until 6 a.m. on Black Saturday, 19 April.

The directive aligns with Sangguniang Bayan Resolution 015, series of 2009, which calls for the reverent observance of Holy Week throughout the municipality.

Boracay, a premier tourist destination in the Philippines, is expected to see a surge in local and foreign visitors during the Lenten season.

The Malay LGU, in coordination with police and tourism officers, will implement strict monitoring to maintain peace and order during the observance.

According to local estimates, around 59,000 tourists are expected to arrive on the island from Holy Monday until Easter Sunday, with peak arrivals forecasted on Maundy Thursday.

Last year, over 7,000 visitors arrived on Good Friday alone, while Maundy Thursday saw more than 13,000 — exceeding the island’s daily capacity of 8,500 but still below the 16,000 recorded in 2023.

The Malay LGU emphasized that while tourism is welcome, preserving the sanctity of Good Friday remains a priority. Visitors are urged to respect local religious practices.