Bohol’s Virgin Island reopens with stricter rules
TAGBILARAN CITY—Virgin Island, also known as Puntod Island, in Panglao, Bohol, is set to reopen to tourists on Feb. 2 after more than a year of closure for environmental rehabilitation.
Authorities are bracing for a rush of visitors eager to stroll along the island’s iconic white sandbar and wade through its crystal-clear, shallow waters.
Following months of careful restoration, the popular destination will welcome guests under stricter regulations designed to safeguard its vibrant coral reefs and delicate marine ecosystem, striking a balance between tourism and environmental preservation.
The provincial government of Bohol, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), said the reopening will be governed by new guidelines for both boat operators and tourists to prevent the issues that previously led to its shutdown.
DENR Central Visayas regional director Laudemir Salac said the agency granted clearance for the lifting of the temporary closure of Virgin Island following the adaption of marine guidelines for the Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS).
“The temporary closure lifting is an [indication] of our shared commitment to safeguarding the marine ecosystem of Panglao,” he said during the weekly forum on Friday.
Salac added: “In order to guarantee sustainable tourism in the future, the reopening of Virgin Island is dependent upon the strict enforcement of the marine tourism guidelines, reinforced by safeguards and accountability.”
As one of Bohol’s most iconic destinations, Virgin Island, a sandbar, is nestled in the shallow waters between Balicasag and Panglao Islands. It is a haven for marine biodiversity, boasting vibrant coral gardens and a variety of rare and unusual sea creatures.
It was temporarily closed in September 2024 after severe damage to corals was reported at the Estaca snorkeling site.
Damaged corals
The closure followed the viral spread of photos on social media showing corals marked and vandalized with tourists’ names, acts allegedly committed with the involvement of some dive guides.
Authorities also cited reports of illegal collection of fees, poor waste management, and the lack of a proper anchoring system, which caused boats to step on and damage corals and other marine resources.
The more than one-year closure allowed the area to recover under the supervision of the Protected Area Management Board.
Bohol Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado stressed the importance of protecting the island as a natural treasure of the province. He further urged all stakeholders to strictly observe environmental rules and practice proper waste management.
“Cleanliness and discipline are nonnegotiable. By following the rules, we protect this place, preserve its beauty and show respect for our community and future generations,” Aumentado said.
The reopening will strictly prohibit all vendors and commercial sellers within Virgin Island to avoid recurring problems related to waste, congestion and overpricing.
As part of enhanced waste management and pollution control measures, dumping of trash into the sea is strictly prohibited. Boat operators are now required to provide onboard waste bins and ensure proper disposal of garbage upon returning to shore.
Operators will also be held accountable for any waste generated by their passengers.
Tourists are encouraged to use only reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens such as Magwai and Human Nature. Products containing harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned due to their damaging effects on corals.
