COMMUNITY PULSE SURVEY: The Proposed Boracay Bridge Project

Boracay Sun News (BSN) conducted an informal online community pulse survey to gauge public sentiment on the unsolicited proposal by San Miguel Corporation (SMC) to construct a bridge connecting Caticlan (Malay, Aklan) to Boracay Island. (For more information, read the headline on page 1.)

The proposed bridge remains one of the most widely discussed issues in local chat groups and everyday conversations. While public opinion is not a legal basis for determining the project’s approval, it serves as an important indicator of community concerns.

This survey was conducted as a social experiment to capture community sentiment for informational and editorial purposes only. It does not represent an endorsement or opposition by this publication and carries no official weight. Results are based on responses, comments, and votes from 110 participants.

Participants were presented with a summary of common arguments for and against the project and were encouraged to conduct their own research before responding. — Freida Dario-Santiago, Editor-in-Chief

DISCLAIMER: This informal online survey reflects the opinions of voluntary respondents. In compliance with Republic Act No. 10173 (Data Privacy Act of 2012), no personal identifying information is disclosed. Only general demographics are presented. Quoted remarks are anonymized.

SURVEY RESULTS

By Azenith Resurreccion

This is the second time that BSN has conducted this survey.

In April 2024, we conducted our first community survey about the proposed Boracay Bridge with a total of 138 respondents, which resulted in a tie, with 64 in favor, 64 against, and 10 undecided. 

This month, our survey results revealed that out of 110 respondents, 69 voted against the bridge (62%), citing too many risks, while 41 voted in favor of the bridge, citing improved systems and progress.

Here are the results arranged according to gender, residency and age group.

Top reasons FOR the bridge:

1. Easier movement of goods and services (39%)

2. Improved all-weather connectivity (22%)

3. Possible lower logistics cost for supplies and waste (19%)

   
   

Selected comments:

“During typhoons and emergencies, crossing would be easier. Prices of commodities will be lower and waste transport will improve, and development could spread beyond Boracay.” — Long-term resident

“Transport to and from the island is very inefficient. Add the bureaucracy and dilapidated infrastructure (terminal building).” — Tourist

Top reasons AGAINST the bridge:

1. Environmental and marine ecosystem impact (58%)

2. Loss of island character and accelerated commercialization (20%)

3. Increase in traffic congestion on the island (17%)

Selected comments:

“Many projects are more important. The bridge is not a solution to our problems, and is not toll- or congestion-free.” – Malaynon

“Environmental risks far outweigh any benefits and the repercussions to nature would be irreversible while destroying the Boracay Island charm.” — Long-term resident 

“It will kill the island. The roads cannot handle more vehicles. Leave the island alone. Mark my word, the bridge will be the death of Boracay as we know it.” – Tourist who comes to the island twice a year

From a deadlock a year ago, community sentiment has shifted to a clear majority against the proposed bridge, led by Tumandoks, Boracaynons, long-term residents and local stakeholders. “Tumandoks” refers to descendants of the island’s original inhabitants, with roots tracing back before the 1900s. “Boracaynons” are recognized residents who have lived and voted in Boracay for at least the past 10 years.