Boracay Island- On September 11, 2024, a significant step was taken toward ensuring the environmental sustainability of Boracay Island with the formal turnover of a surf rake and tractor, donated by Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. and the Coca-Cola Foundation Inc. The handover ceremony, held in front of the iconic Willyโs Rock Beach in Boracay Island, Balabag, Malay, Aklan, brought together key leaders and decision-makers who underscored the importance of preserving Boracayโs pristine environment.
Municipal Mayor Hon. Frolibar Sacapaรฑo Bautista, alongside Vice Mayor Hon. Niรฑo Cawaling and SB Member Hon. Dalidig Yap Sumdad, led the initiative with great pride, emphasizing the local government’s commitment to this vital cause. Their active involvement reflected a strong dedication to ensuring the continuous protection and maintenance of the islandโs natural beauty.
Representing Coca-Cola were Atty. Jorenz Tanada and Atty. Dianne Patawaran, who formalized the donation through the signing and acceptance of the Deed of Donation, alongside the leadership of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Malay. This momentous occasion was also attended by the heads and representatives of every department within LGU-Malay, demonstrating the unified effort across all sectors of the local government.
This donation of a surf rake and tractor is a crucial enhancement to Boracayโs waste management capabilities, particularly in keeping its world-famous beaches clean and in line with sustainable tourism practices. Mayor Bautista highlighted the significance of the donation as the key investment in the islandโs future. He expressed deep appreciation for Coca-Colaโs commitment to the environment, underscoring that public-private partnerships are essential in maintaining Boracay as a global tourist destination.
The heads of each LGU department echoed the mayorโs sentiment, reinforcing the idea that environmental sustainability is not only the responsibility of a few but a shared duty among all stakeholders. This collaborative effort between the LGU-Malay and Coca-Cola represents a critical step forward in ensuring that Boracay remains a pristine and sustainable destination for generations to come.