Boracay Upgrades Security with CIDG Integration

By Jun N. Aguirre

Mayor Frolibar Bautista with members of the RACU PNP during the opening of the CIDG office in Caticlan. 📸 MDRRMO, Facebook

Security across Boracay Island has been upgraded as the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the primary investigation and operational support unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP), joins a massive multi-agency deployment. Part of a broader "Safer Cities" initiative, the move builds on security protocols established during recent ASEAN meetings on the island.

In line with this deployment, the PNP’s Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) has also set up operations in Barangay Caticlan, Malay. While the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) maintains its visible beachfront presence, the CIDG and RACU add a specialized layer of intelligence-driven operations to track high-interest individuals and prevent organized crime from gaining a foothold on the island.

“Our goal is to be proactive, not just visible,” stated PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. during the opening of the Caticlan CIDG Office on April 8. “With specialized units on the ground, we are focusing on crime prevention and rapid response to ensure locals and tourists feel safe 24/7.”

Gen. Nartatez noted the current framework utilizes a coordinated “Ready-to-Receive” approach across law enforcement branches. The PNP recently reported a 30 percent reduction in crime across key tourist hubs, including Boracay, during the first four months of 2026.

Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista emphasized that collaboration between the municipal government and national police units is vital for Boracay’s global reputation. “Discipline and cooperation are our best tools in keeping Boracay organized and resilient,” Bautista said at the opening.

In a related security effort, the Malay Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) has been conducting mandatory inspections of all commercial establishments in Boracay to ensure full compliance with local CCTV installation guidelines.

According to Municipal Ordinance No. 306, Series of 2012, commercial CCTV systems must feature audio-capable, corrosion-resistant units, especially for beachfront properties, with up to 90 days of footage storage capacity to ensure efficient monitoring. Non-compliant establishments were given a grace period ahead of re-inspection.

Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) opened its office at CityMall Boracay on May 15. The new satellite office will provide local clearance processing and investigation services.