BLUE FLAG SCHEME LAUNCHED IN BORACAY
Boracay Island, Dec. 13, 1997 - The "Blue Flag Campaign" which has successfully promoted rational development and sustainable utilization of coastal resources in Europe will be pilot-tested in Boracay next year.
Department of Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor has issued instructions to make the Philippines one of the pilot projects in the implementation of the European Blue Flag campaign which began in the mid-1980s in Europe as a means of encouraging local authorities to provide clean and safe beaches and marinas for local and foreign visitors.
The scheme is designed to generate wider understanding of the coastal environment and its protection and to promote the incorporation of environmental issues in the decision-making processes of local authorities and businessmen.
Gabor said the campaign is an award system that rewards local government and tourism planners for their success in providing safe and clean beaches and waters.
Since the first Blue Flags were awarded in 1985 in France, the campaign has spread to Denmark, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom.
© Copyright, 1997
All rights reserved