WHILE visitors enjoy Boracay’s pristine beaches, the local diocese is voicing opposition to plans for a new casino, urging leaders to put families, community well-being, and the island’s long-term future ahead of economic gain.
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KALIBO, Aklan — Boracay has its beaches, sunsets, hospitality and natural beauty. It does not need a casino to draw visitors, according to the Diocese of Kalibo.
The diocese on Sunday voiced its opposition to the opening of a casino on the popular tourist island, warning that the pursuit of profit should not come at the expense of families, communities and the common good.
“The Diocese of Kalibo remains steadfast in its opposition to gambling and the operation of casinos and in its commitment to the dignity of every person, the welfare of families, and the common good of our communities,” Kalibo Bishop Cyril Villareal said.
The Kaban Hotel and Casino in Malay, Aklan, held its soft opening last month and is scheduled for a grand opening on 11 October.
For Villareal, however, gambling should not be part of Boracay’s development story.
“Boracay does not need gambling and casinos to prosper. Its beauty, its culture, its hospitality, and its natural gifts are already treasures that can support a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry,” he said.
The bishop urged the Aklan provincial government, the Malay municipal government and other government agencies to remain mindful of their responsibility to protect the welfare of residents as the island continues to develop.
He cautioned against measuring progress solely in terms of economic returns.
“Profit cannot be the sole measure of progress,” Villareal said, stressing that development must always remain at the service of the people.
The bishop also appealed to the faithful not to be lured by the promise of easy money, urging them instead to uphold honest work, responsible stewardship and family solidarity.
He called on parents to protect the resources intended for their families and teach their children that success does not come from chance but through perseverance, responsibility, honest work and God’s providence.
For those already struggling with gambling, Villareal appealed for compassion rather than condemnation.
He urged families and communities to help them find their way back, while seeking appropriate professional assistance when needed.
The bishop also called for greater attention to the poor and vulnerable, whom he said may be particularly susceptible to the promise of quick financial gain.
“Let us also be especially attentive to the poor and vulnerable,” he said.
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