The Diocese of Kalibo is taking a firm stand against the Kaban Hotel and Casino, which recently had its soft opening in Boracay on September 16. Bishop Cyril Villareal emphasized that the operation of a casino could lead to significant social issues, including financial distress and family conflicts.
Concerns Over Social Impact
Gambling can lead to financial distress and debt. It can consume resources intended for basic family needs.
Bishop Cyril Villareal, Diocese of Kalibo
- Kaban Hotel features 88 rooms and a 2,000-square-meter casino floor.
- The casino is only accessible to guests 21 and older, adhering to responsible gaming practices.
- The property is part of a larger 23-hectare development by Golden TW Realty and Development Corp.
Bishop Villareal stated that the diocese's position is rooted in a commitment to uphold human dignity and family welfare. The church warns that the economic benefits of such developments should not overshadow their potential harm to the community's social fabric.
The diocese referenced the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which highlights that while gambling itself is not inherently wrong, it becomes morally unacceptable when it harms individuals and families. Villareal cautioned against gambling leading to enslavement, particularly when funds meant for essential needs are diverted.
In light of these concerns, the diocese urged local government authorities in Aklan and Malay to prioritize the welfare of residents in their assessments of development projects. Villareal asserted that true progress cannot be measured solely by profit.
The diocese's message extends beyond legal permissions for the casino's operation. It poses a fundamental question about the type of community Boracay aims to cultivate. Villareal concluded, "Boracay does not need gambling and casinos to prosper. Its beauty, its culture, its hospitality and its natural gifts are already treasures that can support a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry."