Marquez urges PCA to revive palm trees in Boracay Island

BORACAY – Aklan Gov. Carlito Marquez urged the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and other agencies concerned to revived the palm trees in Boracay.

Marquez’ appeal developed after the PCA reported palm trees suffered from the brontispa longissima that infested some 2,000 trees in this resort island.

“Boracay was known for its white sand and palm trees. But the palm trees were neglected with the construction boom.

“We appeal to stakeholders and government agencies concerned to revive the palm trees as another way of protecting the environment,” he said.

Marquez considered the beetle infestation as a wake up call to revive the fading attraction in Boracay.

As this developed, the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) passed a resolution asking resort owners to allow PCA personnel in treating palm trees infested by the beetle.

SP Jose Yap said copies of the resolution sponsored by SP Plaridel Morania will be distributed to resort owners.

“I hope all resort owners would allow PCA personnel inspect their palm trees,” Morania said.

It is believed the coconut leaf beetle got in the island from the imported palm trees transported in Boracay.