TAGBILARAN (UCAN): “It is important for us to recognise and cherish the unique gifts bestowed upon us, including the extraordinary beauty of landmarks like the Chocolate Hills,” said 57-year-old Bishop Alberto Uy of Tagbilaran in Bohol, the Philippines, said on March 14.
Bishop Uy stressed the need to protect the Chocolate Hills, a UNESCO Natural Monument, after Captain’s Peak resort stopped operations on March 15. The entire Bohol island was declared a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023.
“I am happy to see a growing number” of people embrace the responsibility to care “for our precious creation,” he said a day before the resort was forced to temporarily wind up its operations.
“This emerging awareness is crucial in our collective journey towards a sustainable future,” the bishop said.
A video of the Captain’s Peak resort went viral on March 13 causing a public uproar with environmentalists demanding its demolition.
It is important for us to recognise and cherish the unique gifts bestowed upon us, including the extraordinary beauty of landmarks like the Chocolate Hills
Bishop Uy
On March 15, the resort manager Julieta Sablas, who is the younger sister of the owner, Edgar Button, stated that the project has temporarily stopped “upon the order of the mayor,” according to local media.
The resort had its soft opening in 2019 and started full operations in 2022, boasting large swimming pools, slides, and other amenities. The local Sagbayan government gave their approval.
On 6 September 2023, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a temporary closure order. On January 22 of this year, another notice was served for violating the Environmental Compliance Certificate.
The resort management admitted on March 14 that they had failed to obtain a compliance certificate. The tourism department disowned the resort, stating that the project was not an accredited tourism establishment.
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The Chocolate Hills have inspired many legends in the archipelago and most of them are centred around the hills’ formation and figures.
“It begs the question: can a natural wonder be appropriated for private gain?” lawyer, Aaron Pedrosa, leader of the multi-sectoral group Sanlakas, wondered.
“A resort in the middle of Chocolate Hills warrants not just indignation but appropriate action from the DENR and the tourism department,” Pedrosa said on March 14.
Alexie Tutor, Bohol’s third congressional district representative, has sought the demolition of the resort.
On 1 July 1997, the late president, Fidel Ramos, declared the Chocolate Hills a protected area.
The hills were formed as a result of thousands of years of erosion of limestone during the Pliocene period, approximately 2-3 million years ago.
Explaining how the 50 square kilometre heritage site got its name, UNESCO: “During the dry season when precipitation is inadequate, the grass-covered hills turn chocolate brown, hence the name in reference to a branded confection.”
