The Long Road to Paradise; Why Boracay Must Fix its Gateway

By: Dadmar Amores

For many international and domestic travelers, coming to Boracay has become unnecessarily burdensome. Instead of flying directly to Caticlan, many are routed through Kalibo International Airport, adding three to four hours of land and sea transfers.

What should be a smooth arrival to one of the world’s most beautiful islands often turns into a tiring ordeal. Meanwhile, other Philippine destinations such as Panglao, Siargao, and Coron are easier to reach, with more convenient air access that allows visitors to arrive with minimal hassle.

Bohol offers a useful comparison. Tagbilaran City, the provincial capital, is only about 30 kilometers from Panglao and already had an airport. Yet when Panglao emerged as a major tourism destination, Boholanos chose to build an international airport directly on Panglao Island to make access easier for visitors.

Ironically, the gateway to Boracay—Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan—requires only modest upgrading to accommodate more international flights.

Instead, many travelers are forced to land at Kalibo International Airport and endure a long transfer by land and boat before finally reaching the island.

During inclement weather, this journey can become uncomfortable, unpredictable, and at times even hazardous. As Malay moves toward cityhood, accessibility must become a central concern. A future city built around one of the world’s most famous beaches must ensure that reaching it is efficient, comfortable, and worthy of its global reputation.

Enhancing the capacity of the Caticlan gateway would improve the visitor experience and strengthen the economic prospects of the soon-to-be City of Malay. If Boracay is to remain competitive with Asia’s best island destinations, the journey to paradise should be as inviting as the island itself.