TAGAY!
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
“Cheers” to island heroes and moments that matter
By Freida Dario-Santiago
D’Talipapa Reopens as Boracay's Ultimate “Paluto” Center
D’Talipapa has officially reopened its doors, reclaiming its title as the premier paluto destination on Boracay Island.
Following its soft opening on March 18, 2026, the market celebrated its grand opening on May 1, 2026, with welcome remarks delivered by Federico Elizalde Jr., Vice President for Operations of Sunshine Inns, Inc.
The original market, built in 2004, closed in 2017 after a devastating fire. Subsequent reconstruction delays were caused by the 2018 island rehabilitation closure and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The newly built, modern facility features significant structural upgrades designed for safety and resilience, including:
Flood mitigation: Ground level raised by 1.5 meters.
Fire safety: A centralized 250-cubic-meter fire hydrant water reservoir and a Fire Detection and Alarm System (FDAS) with smoke detectors in every unit.
Enhanced security: Full CCTV system coverage for shoppers and tenants.
Modern engineering: Upgraded building and construction standards.
To preserve the authentic charm that visitors love, the new facility welcomes back most of its previous vendors, successfully retaining D’Talipapa’s signature “local vibe.” Locals and tourists are invited to return, explore and dine at the island's iconic market hub once again.
ASPIRE Agri-Aqua Trade Fair
The Regional Agri-Aqua Trade Fair ASPIRE took center stage on April 9, 2026, as part of Aklan’s 70th Anniversary celebration with the theme, “Pagpadayon it aton Panublion: 70 Years of Aklanon Heritage, Pride and Progress,” and gathered key regional leaders, enterprise partners and agricultural stakeholders in Boracay Island.
The event’s main highlight was the ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing for the Partnership on Marketing and Market Engagement. Executed between the Province of Aklan, the Department of Agriculture (DA-RFO VI), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay (PCCI-B) and KOICA-PMC, the strategic pact aims to strengthen local supply chains, support agribusiness, and create sustainable market opportunities.
Distinguished leaders delivered key messages supporting the initiative, including Aklan Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores, who reaffirmed the province's commitment to empowering Aklanon producers, Agriculture Regional Director Dennis Arpia, who highlighted agricultural development as a vital driver for inclusive economic growth, and Niel Flores, stressing LGU-business sector collaboration on behalf of Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista.
By showcasing diverse, locally sourced products, the trade fair successfully established vital business linkages, connecting Boracay-based enterprises directly with producers across Aklan to foster regional economic resilience.
March for Mental Health Unites Boracay Community
More than 500 residents and visitors joined the March for Mental Health on March 29, 2026, led by Malay-Boracay Lifeline with the local government unit. With the theme “Together for Mental Wellness,” the event marked its return after three years, renewing efforts to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
The march from Station 1 to Station 2 symbolized a shared journey toward healing. Participants attended sessions on mental health, nutrition and self-care, promoting holistic well-being.
Chairman Erielyn Gaston emphasized the event’s core message, saying, “Let’s change the narrative of our community. Let’s make it okay to say ‘I need help.’” Youth participants presented inspirational poetry and shared personal testimonies about overcoming mental health challenges.
Organizers highlighted that counseling support is available and encouraged the community to reach out for help when needed.
BEIS Outreach: Learning Together Beyond the Classroom
By Maricar Uy, BEIS PTA President
BEIS students, parents and SNED learners come together as one community
📸 Malay Elementary School
Smiles, teamwork and hands-on learning filled the day as parent and student volunteers from Boracay European International School (BEIS) spent time with learners from the Special Needs Education Center of Malay Elementary School, a local school providing dedicated support for children with special needs, last March 24, 2026.
From shaping cookie dough side by side, to guiding small hands in making colorful bracelets, to sharing simple planting steps, each moment reflected patience, encouragement and genuine connection. The activities, supported by materials donated through BEIS Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) fundraising, were designed not just to teach skills but to build confidence and independence in a fun and supportive environment.
Just as meaningful were the quiet moments where BEIS students and parents guided, listened and learned alongside the learners and their guardians: a reminder that some of the most important lessons are learned through connection, understanding and real-life experiences.
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