SC orders Palace to answer petition of Boracay residents

April 26, 2018

The Supreme Court on Thursday ordered Malacanang to answer a petition questioning  the legality of the closure order of Boracay.

In special en banc session, the SC ordered the executive department to file its comment to the petition filed by three Boracay residents who sought a temporary restraining order (TRO) or status quo ante order  against the implementation of the closure order.

The closure of the world-famous Philippine tourist destination for six months started Thursday.

The SC gave the respondents - Executive  Secretary Salvador Medialdea and DILG Officer-in-Charge Eduardo Año - 10 days from receipt of notice to comply with the order.

Boracay residents Mark Anthony Zabal, Thiting Estoso Jacosalem and Odeon Bandiola, in their petition, questioned the authority of the president to order the closure of the island to tourists and non-residents and accused him of violating constitutional rights to travel and due process. DMS