By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has uncovered several additional resorts nestled within the picturesque Chocolate Hills of Bohol during their investigation into the Captain’s Peak Resort, which was constructed in the heart of the UNESCO heritage site.
DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos revealed that a task force was dispatched to Bohol for a thorough three-day investigation.
Abalos also issued a memorandum circular to scrutinize all protected areas and assess the extent of construction within these zones.
“They have visited many sites, thoroughly exploring the area. It’s not just the Chocolate Hills; there are other places too. I mean, within the Chocolate Hills area, there’s more than just one resort. It seems there are others. That’s where I’ll be headed,” Abalos stated.
Abalos is scheduled to visit Bohol on Thursday (20 March 2024) to continue the investigation.
“It’s an eye-opener. This is a UNESCO Heritage site, and it should be protected. The situation here is the opposite, so let’s review the procedures—why this happened, the documents provided, what was signed,” remarked the DILG official.
“Regardless of when this occurred, everything should be thoroughly checked now. Everything needs to be documented,” he added.
(el Amigo/MNM)
