Yapak, Philippines

Tourism dominates the economy of Boracay Island. The island, famous for its fine white sand and the crystal clear waters, now ranks amongst the country's premier destinations and one of the world's best islands to visit. But just like anywhere else in the world, where there is luxury, there is also poverty.

Yapak district is the poorest and neediest of the three in Boracay. The government invests heaviest in Balabag, the tourist area in the middle of the island, for the sake of appearance to foreigners. A clear indicator is the vast difference between the Balabag Elementary School and Yapak's; the number of students in a class is 30 compared to 50 and the property is twice the size. The only hospital and private medical clinics are also located in Balabag. Parents can barely feed their children and themselves let alone pay for school uniforms, books and transport to send their children to school.