Bishops in Visayas, Romblon renew opposition to Boracay casino
ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Catholic Church leaders in Western Visayas and Romblon province have renewed their opposition to casino operations in Boracay, warning that gambling could undermine family welfare and expose vulnerable communities to social and economic risks.
In a joint statement made public on Sunday, the Church leaders expressed support for Kalibo Bishop Cyril Villareal’s opposition to gambling and the operation of a casino in Boracay, Malay, Aklan.
“We recognize the importance of tourism, investment, and employment in Boracay. However, development must serve the human person, not sacrifice human dignity and family welfare for profit,” the bishops said.
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READ: Capiz bishops urge leaders to address concerns over Boracay casino
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The statement was signed by Jaro Archbishop Midyphil Billones, who is also apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Kabankalan in Negros Occidental; Archbishop Emeritus Jose Romeo Lazo of Jaro; San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza; Bacolod Bishop Louie Galbines; San Jose de Antique Bishop Marvyn Maceda; and Bacolod Bishop Emeritus Patricio Buzon.
The other signatories were Capiz Archbishop Victor Bendico, Romblon Bishop Narciso Abellana, Kalibo Bishop Emeritus Jose Corazon Tala-oc and Villareal.
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The prelates warned that gambling addiction could lead to mounting debts, depleted savings, marital conflict, broken trust and neglect of children. Money intended for food, education and healthcare, they said, could instead be lost in the pursuit of quick winnings.
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Citing the Catechism of the Catholic Church, they said that “the passion for gambling risks becoming an enslavement.”
Potential harm
They also raised concerns about possible social risks associated with expanded casino operations, including human exploitation, prostitution, human trafficking, substance abuse, gambling-related fraud and other crimes.
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The bishops clarified that these consequences should not automatically be attributed to every casino, but said the potential harm to individuals and communities should be weighed against the profits such businesses could generate.
They appealed to the national government, the Aklan provincial and Malay municipal governments, national agencies and business leaders to consider the long-term social costs of casino operations, listen to affected communities, and prioritize families and vulnerable people.
The statement also called on Catholic communities and people of goodwill to promote honest work, responsible use of resources and compassion for those struggling with gambling addiction, who need understanding, support and appropriate assistance.
“No to gambling casinos in Boracay. Yes to development that protects families, dignifies work, and serves the common good,” the statement said.
The bishops said Boracay’s economic future should instead be built on responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, dignified employment and opportunities that strengthen families and communities. They maintained that economic progress need not depend on gambling casinos.
The joint appeal followed Villareal’s Oct. 5 pastoral statement opposing the opening and operation of a casino on the island.
Bendico and Abellana had also issued a separate statement of solidarity with Villareal and the Diocese of Kalibo on Oct. 7.
The statements came after the opening of Kaban Hotel and Casino Boracay, the island’s first hotel casino.
The property, part of a 23-hectare development by Golden TW Realty and Development Corp., began operations on Sept. 16 and held its grand opening on Oct. 11 at Station 0 in Barangay Yapak.
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The six-story establishment has 88 hotel rooms and a 2,000-square-meter casino floor licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. /cb
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