Pagtayo ng resort sa gitna ng Chocolate Hills sa Bohol, pinuna | 24 Oras

Summary

Netizens have criticized the construction of a resort within the protected Chocolate Hills in Bohol, a UNESCO Global Geopark. The resort, which features pools and slides, has prompted the Senate tourism committee to investigate its establishment, questioning permits issued by local authorities. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has issued a closure order due to the lack of an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and is seeking clarification on the resort's compliance with environmental regulations. The provincial government of Bohol and the resort owner are being scrutinized for their roles in the development, which has raised concerns about the preservation of this geological wonder.

Takeaways

• 🏞️ The construction of a resort in the protected Chocolate Hills of Bohol has sparked controversy among netizens and government bodies.
• 🔍 The Bohol Provincial Board and the Senate's tourism committee are investigating the establishment of the resort, focusing on its legality and environmental impact.
• 🏨 The resort in question features pools, slides, and other structures built near the famous hills, raising concerns about its compliance with protected area regulations.
• 📜 The Chocolate Hills were declared a protected area and a National Geological Monument in 1997 under President Fidel V. Ramos.
• 🌏 The hills are a UNESCO Global Geopark and are part of the island's unique geological identity, formed over 50 million years ago.
• 🚫 The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has issued a closure order for the resort due to the lack of an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).
• 📝 The DENR is also seeking clarification on whether the resort was built before the area was declared protected, which could affect the outcome of the case.
• 🏢 The local government of Sagbayan, where the resort is located, is also under scrutiny for issuing permits and its role in the construction within the protected area.
• 🏗️ There is an ongoing investigation into another new attraction within the Chocolate Hills, located in the municipality of Carmen.
• 📋 The Bohol provincial government has laws limiting what can be constructed in protected areas, and the resort's compliance with these laws is in question.
• 🏢 The Department of Tourism has not accredited the resort, and there is no record of an application for accreditation as of August 20, 2023.

Q & A

What is the controversy surrounding the construction of a resort in the Chocolate Hills of Bohol?

The controversy is about the construction of a resort within the Chocolate Hills, a protected area and National Geological Monument, which has raised concerns about environmental impact and adherence to regulations.

Which government bodies are involved in the investigation of the resort construction?

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Bohol, the Senate, and the tourism committee are involved in the investigation.

What is the significance of the Chocolate Hills as a tourist attraction?

The Chocolate Hills are a popular tourist attraction in Bohol, known for their unique geological formation and recognized globally, with UNESCO designating them as part of a global geopark.

What are the concerns regarding the construction of the resort in terms of environmental impact?

The concerns include potential damage to the protected area, disturbance to the natural landscape, and whether the construction adheres to environmental regulations and permits.

What actions have been taken by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) regarding the resort?

The DENR has issued a closure order for the resort due to the lack of an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and has conducted inspections to enforce the closure order.

What is the role of the local government in issuing permits and overseeing construction within protected areas?

The local government, specifically the municipal government, has the primary duty to issue permits, including building permits and mayor's permits, and to enforce regulations within their jurisdiction.

What is the status of the resort's accreditation with the Department of Tourism?

As of August 20, 2023, the resort is not accredited and has not submitted an application for accreditation with the Department of Tourism.

What are the legal limitations on construction within the Chocolate Hills as a protected area?

There are laws and regulations that limit what can be constructed within the protected area, which the resort must adhere to, including obtaining necessary permits and conducting environmental impact assessments.

What is the current situation regarding the resort's operation and compliance with orders?

The resort has been issued a closure order and is under investigation for non-compliance with environmental regulations, including the lack of an ECC.

What is the role of the provincial government in overseeing the enforcement of laws related to construction in protected areas?

The provincial government has a supervisory role to ensure that municipal governments enforce laws and regulations related to construction within protected areas.

What steps has the Bohol provincial government taken in response to the resort construction issue?

The Bohol provincial government has sent recommendations and requests to the DENR to halt any construction within the protected area and is awaiting official feedback from the DENR regarding their investigation.