Bohol, an idyllic province in the Philippines renowned for its pristine beaches and natural wonders, found itself at the center of a heated controversy revolving around the iconic Chocolate Hills. Nestled amidst these geological marvels, Captain’s Peak Resort, initially heralded as a tranquil retreat, soon became the subject of widespread scrutiny and condemnation, sparking a viral social media storm that reverberated across the nation and beyond.
The Resort’s Rise and Fall
The saga began innocuously enough, with the resort gaining attention for its picturesque location nestled among the famed haycock hills. However, it wasn’t long before a video showcasing its proximity to the Chocolate Hills went viral, drawing the ire of netizens and environmental activists alike. Concerns were quickly raised regarding the legality of the resort’s construction within a protected area, prompting intervention from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
In September 2023, the DENR issued a temporary closure order against the resort, citing violations of environmental regulations. This initial move was followed by a notice of violation in January 2024, revealing that the resort had been operating without the requisite Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), further fueling public outrage and calls for accountability.
Public Outcry and Government Action
The backlash was swift and fierce, with social media platforms ablaze with condemnations and calls for action. Hundreds of concerned citizens voiced their apprehensions over the potential environmental degradation wrought by the resort’s operations, questioning the wisdom of allowing such development within a protected natural monument.
Senator Nancy Binay emerged as a prominent voice of dissent, denouncing the resort’s existence as not only “infuriating” but also “heartbreaking.” She expressed incredulity at how such a project could have been greenlit within the confines of a classified natural monument and a UNESCO Geopark, highlighting systemic failures in regulatory oversight and environmental stewardship.
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The Closure Directive
As of March 13, 2024, the DENR has doubled down on its stance, issuing a directive to Bohol’s environmental office to ensure strict compliance with the closure order. This move underscores the gravity of the situation and reaffirms the government’s commitment to upholding environmental protections and preserving the integrity of cherished natural landmarks.
The Chocolate Hills, revered for their scientific significance and geomorphic uniqueness, have been designated a protected area since 1997, with UNESCO recognizing their global importance by declaring them a national geological monument in 1988. The enforcement of the closure order marks a critical juncture in the ongoing battle to safeguard these natural treasures from the encroachment of unchecked development and commercial exploitation.
The Future of the Hills
While the immediate future of Captain’s Peak Resort remains uncertain, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about the imperative of balancing economic development with environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices. As the resort grapples with its mandated shutdown, stakeholders are urged to reflect on the long-term implications of their actions and prioritize the preservation of the Chocolate Hills for the enjoyment and appreciation of future generations.
The unfolding controversy serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of our natural heritage and the urgent need for vigilant stewardship in the face of mounting environmental pressures. Only through concerted efforts and collective action can we hope to safeguard these irreplaceable treasures and ensure a more sustainable future for all.
