Catholic bishops renew opposition to Boracay casino
The joint appeal follows the opening of the Kaban Hotel and Casino, as religious leaders call for tourism-led development without gambling.
Key takeaways:
- More than a dozen Catholic bishops from Western Visayas and Romblon issued a joint statement opposing casino operations on Boracay.
- The bishops backed Kalibo Bishop Cyril Villareal, who has previously argued that the island can prosper without gambling.
- The statement warned that gambling addiction and other potential social risks should be considered when assessing casino development.
- The appeal follows the soft launch of the Kaban Hotel and Casino in September and its grand opening in October.
- The bishops urged national and local authorities to prioritise sustainable tourism, environmental protection and opportunities for local communities.
The Philippines.- Catholic bishops from Western Visayas and Romblon have issued a joint statement opposing casino operations on Boracay Island, saying the popular tourist destination should pursue development that does not rely on gambling. The statement, signed by more than a dozen bishops, backs Kalibo Bishop Cyril Villareal, who has led local opposition to commercial gambling on the island.
“Boracay’s future should be built on responsible tourism, dignified work, environmental stewardship, and opportunities that strengthen families and communities,” the statement read. “We believe that economic progress need not depend on gambling casinos.”
The bishops raised concerns about the possible effects of gambling addiction. They also pointed to potential social risks that can accompany expanded casino activity, while stressing that such problems should not be automatically blamed on every casino. The long-term effects on communities, they said, should be carefully weighed.
The joint appeal comes after the soft launch of the Kaban Hotel and Casino on Boracay in September and its grand opening in October. The property is part of a larger development in Barangay Yapak.
The bishops called on national officials, the Aklan provincial government, the Malay municipal government and business leaders to consider the social costs and listen to affected communities. They urged a focus on sustainable tourism and opportunities that support families.
