The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is set to examine the role of local government units (LGUs) regarding a controversial resort development within the protected area of the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos emphasized the department’s commitment to taking legal action against any negligence or irregularities by officials responsible for safeguarding the iconic site.
This inquiry was sparked by public outcry over Captain’s Peak Resort, which had been operating without the necessary environmental clearance certificate (ECC), leading to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issuing a temporary closure order and a violation notice against the resort.
The Chocolate Hills, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected under national law, are subject to stringent environmental regulations to preserve their natural and cultural integrity. Abalos pointed out that any unauthorized activities compromising the area are strictly prohibited.
Local responses have been mixed, with Sagbayan’s municipal government, where the resort is located, claiming they have yet to receive the DENR’s closure order. They stated that any applications related to the resort made in 2018 were directed to the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) for review, with assurances that the business permit would be revoked if any legal breaches were confirmed.
Further complicating matters, Bohol 2nd District Board Member Jiselle Rae Villamor revealed that the DENR had previously acknowledged the resort’s compliance with certain guidelines, including a resolution that permitted the development of the resort under specific conditions. This revelation suggests that there may be a need to reevaluate these guidelines to ensure they align with the protection objectives for the Chocolate Hills.
Amidst social media backlash and pending government investigations, Captain’s Peak Resort announced its temporary closure, underscoring the complexities surrounding environmental protection, local governance, and development pressures in protected areas.
The case has drawn the attention of national figures, including Senator Nancy Binay, who called for clarity from the DENR and LGUs on the permit issuance process for the project. The Department of Tourism (DOT) also expressed concerns, highlighting ongoing coordination with the Bohol provincial government since the previous year to address the issue.
This unfolding situation in Bohol’s Chocolate Hills serves as a critical reminder of the importance of balancing development and conservation, ensuring that the natural beauty and heritage of such sites are preserved for future generations.