Boracay’s Tarnished Paradise;Rising Crime, Businesses Downfall, and Tourist Misfortunes

Boracay, Aklan- The post-card image of Boracay is fading, displaced by some narratives of rising crimes, struggling businesses and a series of incidents that shadow the impoverished reputation of the island. While the island still manages to continue drawing visitors, yet the growing uneasy feeling to the community and to the tourist is especially stimulated by the economic stress and some series of high profile incidents.

The economic status of the island is trembling, with many businesses trying their best to survive this crisis. Tourist arrivals decrease compared to the passed years records that lead to the lay offs of workers, income reduction or worst closures . According to some research Boracay saw a decrease in total tourist arrivals in September 2025, with 117,189 visitors compared to 121,975 in September 2024. This is a decrease of 4,786 tourists, or about a 3.9% drop, although a separate report from September 1 to 15, 2025, shows an increase in domestic tourists in the first half of the month compared to the same period in 2024. The reasons for this decline are multifaceted, including the competition from other destinations which some tourists find more affordable. Also the strict regulations that doubt international and national tourists to visit. And especially the perception of the island has become less welcoming because of crime rates in Aklan and within the island.

Adding to the island’s flaws is the unsettling threat in crime rates. Beside the notable decrease of serious crimes still the impact of crimes in the reputation of Boracay is undeniable. Just like the recent shooting incident in Lake Town Boracay, that involves the former rivals; the DJ(victim) and a landlord(suspect). This occurrence results in fueling the sense of insecurity among the residents and visitors.

Remember the recent death of Slovakian national just this March 2025, that coupled with the allegations of rape, that case already stained the island’s image. That tragic incident that is still unresolved, making the people questioned and acts skeptical of the safety and well-being of tourists on the island.

This situation of the island demands the coordinated and comprehensive response from the authorities and the government officials. They must address thoroughly the underlying causes of crimes, support every business inside the island and put strict implementation of rules to ensure the safety of residents and tourists. Key priorities should be;

Strengthen the Law Enforcement and Implementation that includes, increasing police presence, improve strategies in crime prevention, effective justice for offenders especially to strict process and examination to every person who enters the island to avoid the smuggling of illegal firearms.

-Support the local businesses like providing them some financial assistance and training programs to adapt in the changing economic landscapes

– Also, enforce the enhancing of Tourist Safety through implementation of safety measures to protect tourists from crimes and to ensure their well-being in their stay in the island.

Responsible Tourism Promotion that encourages tourism to a sustainable practice that benefits the local community as well as protection for the environment.

Boracay’s future is in the hands of how we address these challenges to restore its reputation in terms with its safety, security and economic viability. Through working altogether, the island can keep its confidence as a paradise for all.