According to Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Roy Cimatu, the rehabilitation of shuttered resort island Boracay is going well, noting a welcome reception from local resident and business owners, along with cooperation from the community on compliance measures.

He pointed out, most residents and business owners have agreed to demolishing their illegal structures, either by themselves or the agency.

“Around 90 percent of them have given their waiver for us to proceed with the demolition,” Cimatu noted.

With regard to first arriving on the island to tackle the six-month project, the cabinet official pointed out the difference in expectations experienced.

“We anticipated confusion and disturbance among the residents and stakeholders, but ‘Thank God’ there was none,” he explained. “We’re very happy dahil maganda ang reception ng mga tao (We’re very happy because we received a lovely reception from the people).”

Meanwhile, Cimatu said they will be recommending displaced Boracay workers to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) cash-for-work (CFW) program.

Last month, DSWD announced they would be providing assistance for local residents who face various issues with regard to the shutdown. They noted residents may qualify for the CFW program, which seeks to provide temporary employment for distressed or displaced individuals.

Earlier this year, DSWD distributed CFW funds for families and individuals affected by the Mt. Mayon eruption./WDJ