Two Bohol mayors have voiced their objections to their recent suspension related to the controversial Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort constructed within the protected Chocolate Hills area. They contend that authorizing such a development is beyond their jurisdiction.
The Ombudsman had earlier handed down a six-month preventive suspension to six officials involved in the resort’s construction in Sagbaya, including Carmen Mayor Conchito Delos Reyes and Batuan Mayor Antonino Humawid.
In a report by 24 Oras on Tuesday, both mayors emphasized their lack of authority over the issuance of environmental compliance certificates (ECCs), building permits, and business operations in another municipality.
Delos Reyes expressed her surprise at the suspension, while Humawid urged the national government to amend laws to permit the construction of essential facilities like comfort rooms and stores in protected areas like Batuan.