The Chocolate Hills in Bohol emerge as one of the nation's foremost tourist attractions, celebrated for its captivating cluster of mound-shaped hills that assume a rich brown hue during the dry season.
Acknowledging its natural beauty, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) even designated it as the Philippines' first global geopark in 2023. So it's no surprise that finding a resort built within this protected landscape has resulted in a mass outcry from the general public.
What Caused The Public Outcry
Internet users promptly noted a perceived disruption to the renowned beauty of the Chocolate Hills, citing a circulating online video purportedly showing a development nestled amidst some of the hills.
A video shared by Ren The Adventurer featured an aerial perspective of The Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort in Sagbayan, Bohol, where its structures and facilities were visibly erected at the foothills. This raised concerns among the public, with many questioning why and how the Department of Natural Resources (DENR) permitted the construction of such a development in the area.
"Why was this permitted?? Such a resort should not be endorsed," voiced a netizen in the comment section of the post.
"It's truly disheartening! The Chocolate Hills are not merely a natural marvel but also a part of our heritage. Safeguarding them is essential for future generations to appreciate their beauty and significance. Let's unite in advocating for their preservation!" added another netizen.
Resort's Response
However, in an interview with Cebu media outlet The Freeman in 2023, Julieta Sablas, the administrator and sister of the owner of The Captain’s Peak, Edgar Buton, asserted that the resort had undergone the necessary processes for its construction. She further explained that they had submitted a proposal to the Protected Areas Management Board (PAMB) of the DENR when modifications were made to the approved plan regarding the location of some amenities.
Government Action
In a statement released on Wednesday, March 13, the DENR announced that the Office of the Central Visayas regional executive director issued a memorandum, directing Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Paquito Melicor to inspect the facility for compliance with a temporary closure order.
"In the case of Captain's Peak Resort, the DENR issued a Temporary Closure Order on September 6, 2023, and a Notice of Violation to the project proponent on January 22, 2024, for operating without an environmental clearance certificate," the DENR stated.
The Department of Tourism also issued a statement expressing support for the preservation and protection of the Chocolate Hills. It clarified that the Captain's Peak Resort Development is not accredited as a tourism establishment under the auspices of the DOT’s system, and there is no pending application for accreditation for the same.
