In the heart of the famous Chocolate Hills in Bohol, a small resort has opened, once again highlighting the undervaluation of our natural treasures.
Social media users are taking offense at a viral video that vlogger Ren The Adventurer posted, showing off the “breathtaking” view of The Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort in Sagbayan, Bohol, which is situated in the middle of the Chocolate Hills, a recognized tourist attraction in Bohol and considered one of the Eight Wonders of the World.
Many people voiced their opinions and displeasure with the resort being built in the center of the popular tourist destination, saying that the resort is nothing but an eyesore and is destroying the natural beauty of the hills.
Additionally, some are pointing fingers and criticizing the Bohol local government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for allowing the construction of a resort in the renowned tourist attraction in the province—especially considering that Chocolate Hills is recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark and a National Geological Monument.
Following the controversy surrounding the Chocolate Hill resort, which went viral on social media, the DENR responded by stating on Wednesday that its Regional Office had previously issued a temporary closure order.
In a statement, the DENR declared Chocolate Hills a protected area following Proclamation No. 1037, enacted July 1, 1997. For the same reason, on September 6, 2023, the agency issued a temporary closure order for The Captain’s Peak Resort and a Notice of Violations to the project proponents for operating without an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) on January 24, 2023.
The agency further stated that the DENR has already sent a memo to the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) in Bohol, under the direction of Ariel Rica, directing the formation of a team to inspect The Captain’s Peak Resort for compliance with the temporary closure order. The DENR has assured the public that it is evaluating the legality of Captain’s Peak Resort.
To date, the video garnered more than four million views on social media, where users continue to worry about the gradual ruin of several Philippine tourist destinations.
Noting that some tourist destinations in the Philippines were reported to be significantly compromised by infrastructures, such as the infamous photobomb of Torre de Manila to Luneta Park.
Tourism always has its advantages and disadvantages. Many can stimulate the economy, but too much can damage the environment and displace the local populace. Natural attractions have been a victim and are being destroyed by mere capitalism. Before planning your next trip, ponder how your wanderlust is affecting some of the natural beauty people aim to preserve.
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