With the recent (controversial) government crackdown on water pollution in popular tourist hotspots around the Philippines, businesses and establishments are scurrying to avoid getting closed down or fined heavily by the administration.

The Philippines, having a large tourism sector, is heavily dependent on both local and foreign visitors to its many once-pristine beaches and islands. Tourism has created jobs, services, and has increased demand for goods, bolstering the local economy. However, with economic growth comes the issue of sustainability, whether the growth that a region is experiencing will be maintainable and still positive in the long run.

Siargao Island is one of these places. This island is a popular surfing destination in the country. But various resorts and restaurants have been subject to the government crackdown on their lack of proper waste treatment and disposal systems, with the administration urging them to comply to environmental law to preserve both the biodiversity and the appeal of the area.  

49 business establishments have been called out by the government due to violations of either the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, or the Environmental Impact Statement System.

Roy Cimatu, the Philippines? Environment Secretary stated that "Siargao is still one of the country's best tourist destinations, but if we want to sustain its viability as an international surfing capital, we must show that we are all helping to protect and conserve its environment."

The administration is committed to abide by former President Fidel Ramos? statement in 1996 that ?Siargao Island and its terrestrial, wetland, and marine areas as protected areas under the category of protected landscape and seascape.? (Rappler)

This is indeed good news for the Philippines, as in the long run, if the nation?s tourist hotspots are properly maintained, it will be beneficial to all: the locals and the local economy, the tourists, and the biodiversity in the area.

Sources: https://www.rappler.com/nation/198567-denr-siargao-businesses-address-environmental-violations