Community groups and the Catholic Church have come out against plans to open a card room on the Philippine resort island of Boracay.
Azur Poker and Gaming Corp. has submitted a letter to the municipal council seeking endorsement for the project, according to Councilor Rowen Aguirre, who said lawmakers would discuss it and were waiting for more details.
The local diocese, civic groups and other religious organizations have held protest actions in the past against casinos and gambling on the island, which lies about 250 miles south of Manila. Council had approved two projects, although neither was built. These were a casino at Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Country Club and a VIP casino at Crown Regency Resort and Convention Center.
The Rev. Arnold Crisostomo, a parish priest, said he was unaware of the latest proposal but that the stand of the church is clear.
“We oppose gambling whatever form it takes,” he said.
Aguire said public consultations would be held on the Azur proposal.
