The reason Boracay is called the "Blue Zone": What settlers say about the true value of the island

People deciding to move to Boracay seek more than just its appeal as a tourist destination. What they find is a living environment that meets the conditions of a “Blue Zone,” a term meaning a geographic area with a long health span and low rates of chronic diseases.

People Finding a New Stage of Life in Boracay

The backgrounds of those who have decided to settle on the island are diverse. For tech nomad Kit, the lifting of COVID lockdowns was a catalyst for reevaluating life. The question, “If working in Manila is no different, why not be in Boracay where I can truly enjoy kite surfing I love?” led him to the island.

Will, who just turned 50, chose to move to the island to escape urban fatigue. As a single man, he decided to embrace the “challenge of a new environment.” As a result, he took the lead on the renovation project of Café Got Soul Boracay, a cafe and hotel, becoming part of the island’s business community.

Dian from Cebu defied her friends’ opposition and took a job on the island. Her decision paid off, and she was able to develop her career from her first job on Willies Island to a management position at Levantine in Bravogubeach.

Julia, born in Sweden, has an even more dramatic story. She volunteered at Mother Teresa Hospital in India and traveled the world before arriving in Boracay in 1989. She met her husband on the island, and while raising two children, she now runs Lemon Café at D’Mall, Dinibeach Bar and Restaurant, and Diniview Resort, located on a hill.

Conditions of the “Blue Zone”: Daily Activities and Fresh Food

According to Healthline, the definition of a Blue Zone is “a geographic area with a low incidence of chronic diseases and a longer average lifespan, where diet, fasting, and exercise are key factors.” Boracay naturally meets these elements.

Julia spends her mornings walking her dog along the Ruh Mountain trail and cycling around her businesses every day. “People all over the island are constantly moving, and that’s the essence of a Blue Zone. For us, moving our bodies is a natural part of life,” she says.

In terms of food, Boracay offers an ideal environment. “Fresh fish and vegetables are available. This is also a checkmark for the Blue Zone. Prioritizing local ingredients— for example, our restaurant doesn’t serve steak. Plus, you can enjoy clean, fresh air,” Julia explains.

The island is also home to a 82-year-old Japanese kite surfer who attends the Freestyle Academy Kite Surfing School. Another foreign resident runs 18 kilometers every day, and such an active lifestyle permeates the entire island.

Community Bonds Supporting Island Life

Boracay’s greatest feature is its strong sense of community. From the healthy coat of a dog rescued by Will in front of his cafe, you can sense the deep trust between staff and residents. The simple daily routine of crossing the street to work is a precious time for him.

Trials the Island Faced and the Spirit of Mutual Support

However, Boracay has also experienced serious hardships. The “cleanup” under the Duterte administration in 2018, Typhoon damage in 2019, and COVID lockdowns subjected the island to consecutive crises.

During the lockdown, although there were zero infections, many businesses closed due to a sharp decline in tourists. The island residents suffered severe mental and economic damage, with 40 suicide cases recorded.

In this crisis, several business owners, including Julia, chose to cooperate to maintain their staff. By sharing staff among Johnny’s, The Lazy Dog, and Lemon Café, they aimed to support employment and livelihoods across the island.

The Responsibility Symbolized by Flying Foxes

Julia also serves as president of Friends of the Flying Fox (FFF). Established in 2002, this volunteer organization recognizes the importance of fruit bats (flying foxes) and monitors illegal activities threatening the ecosystem.

Bats are essential for forest health, and they account for 90% of Boracay’s reforestation efforts. FFF counts bat populations monthly and works with stakeholders to combat illegal hunting, unpermitted logging, and disturbances to bat roosts. Even as bulldozers continue to appear, they persistently advocate for environmental protection.

FFF does not oppose development per se but supports development that is properly regulated and monitored for environmental conservation.

Why Do They Stay on the Island?

Boracay thrives on tourism, but residents like Julia constantly watch for the deterioration of its natural beauty.

“We are very fortunate to be able to settle on this beautiful island. Calling it home is truly wonderful,” Julia says.

“The spirit and kindness of the island people, and the community itself, keep us moving forward through any hardship. Caring for the island, its environment, its people, and animals is always our top priority, and we demonstrate this through our actions.”

Her words reflect the sentiments of many who have moved to Boracay. Its stunning scenery, healthy lifestyle, and strong community bonds are the true values of Boracay as a “Blue Zone.”

– From Rappler.com