BORACAY ISLAND, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has implemented stricter regulations for all development projects on Boracay Island, requiring more rigorous environmental and geological assessments to sustain the island’s rehabilitation gains.
Under Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2025-36, the DENR has established a new framework for the issuance of Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECCs) and Certificates of Non-Coverage (CNCs). The order applies to all new developments, existing structures without prior permits, and expansion projects on the island.
To secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for new developments on Boracay, proponents must now navigate a more rigorous set of technical requirements. Projects are required to submit carrying capacity assessments endorsed by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) to prove they will not overstress the island’s resources.
Additionally, developers must provide an Engineering Geological and Geohazard Assessment Report endorsed by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) to ensure the site is safe from natural risks. Beyond these scientific studies, proponents must obtain certification from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) regarding strict adherence to beachfront and road easement requirements, along with a certification from the Local Government Unit (LGU) confirming that the project is consistent with current zoning and land use plans.
For projects not covered by the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) system such as family dwellings, small businesses, and places of worship, proponents must still secure a CNC. These applications must now be filed manually at the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Region VI to ensure physical site inspections and validation before approval.
The DENR Regional Office has been mandated to enforce strict environmental safeguards under the new DAO. This includes ensuring all wastewater is processed through established treatment facilities, with a total ban on discharging untreated water into Boracay’s Class SB and SC waters.
Additionally, the DENR will coordinate closely with the Municipality of Malay to align project approvals with the town’s 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan and existing traffic management policies.
The DENR stated that the new order draws from lessons learned during the high-profile six-month closure and rehabilitation of the island in 2018. The agency emphasized that only projects consistent with Boracay’s approved development framework will be eligible for permits.
“No new government project or expansion may proceed without the required environmental clearances,” the DENR noted, reaffirming its commitment to regulating development to protect the island’s ecosystem while supporting sustainable tourism.