BOHOL RESORT – POLITICAL VIEWS

1. Why is it political?

- It was shocking to most Filipinos, as well as to environmentalists, when the news about the
Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort nestled in the Chocolate Hills in Bohol blew up. Different
viewpoints were shared online, with many speculating about who approved this project and how
it was constructed. But, immediately after the issue shocked the whole country, the senators and
House of Representatives held a conference.

- This issue is a national concern because it involves political interests. Since the Chocolate Hills
are a national geological monument and, most especially, one of the Seven Wonders of the
World, the national government should be held accountable and take action in accordance with
the law.

- The main questions here are: who issued the business permit? Do they have an Environmental
Compliance Certificate (ECC)? How come no one even dares to report this to the authorities?
And who are the people behind this? It is truly alarming that even the natural heritage of the
Philippines was used for personal interest and advantage. Local government units and citizens in
nearby areas should be the first ones to protect and maintain their environment.

2. How does this issue relate to the Philippine government system?

- Although this issue needs to be addressed urgently, the government hasn’t taken any action aside
from the order of the Department of Natural Resources (DENR) about the resort’s temporary
closure on March 13, 2024. Until now, there has been neither news nor updates on whether they
have talked with the owner or found the people behind the resort.

3. What law did the Bohol Resort violate?

- The resort that was built in the Chocolate Hills in Bohol is also in violation of environmental law
specifically the Proclamation No.1037. The purpose of this proclamation is to protect and
preserve the natural beauty of the Chocolate Hills while also preventing inappropriate
exploitation of the area. Resorts are frequently required to follow strict environmental regula in
order to protect the surrounding ecosystem and wildlife. Failure to do so can have a negative
impact on the environment as well as to the local ecology. Resorts must operate in a sustainable
and responsible manner un order to protect the area’s natural beauty and preserve it for future
generations.

4. How can the people who consented to the construction of the resort in Chocolate Hills be held
legally liable?
- After conducting an investigation, local unit’s authoritzed the construction of the resort in
Chocolate Hills. A DILG member claims that local officials who are discovered to have been
negligent or complicit in any offense will be prosecuted. These officials might receive a
suspension or be fired.