Chocolate Hills Resort: You Won’t Believe What They Did!
Photos of a resort in the middle of a National Geological Monument in the Philippines have been circulating online. Does the viral Chocolate Hills resort signal environmental destruction for development?
All You Need to Know
The Chocolate Hills are a popular tourist spot in Bohol. Sometimes called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” it has been the 3rd National Geological Monument in the Philippines since 1988. They’ve attracted so many visitors that UNESCO also declared them the country’s first Global Geopark. These hills look exactly like giant chocolate mounds!
A Growing Concern
Recently, issues have surfaced regarding the preservation of the Chocolate Hills because of a viral post. Which shows a resort constructed between the hills. This has been igniting questions about the integrity of the area’s conservation efforts.
Who’s the Culprit?
The Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort in Sagbayan, Bohol, stands at the center of the controversy. The resort is positioned at the foot of the hills. Sparking a public outcry regarding the apparent human disturbance. Netizens pointed out that it’s unlawful.
The Law Must Apply to All
Republic Act 7586 states that the activities in the Chocolate Hills, which could harm its ecosystem, are strictly prohibited. These include hunting, destruction of flora and fauna, defacement of natural beauty, and unauthorized construction like the Chocolate Hills resort. The DENR has taken action against the establishment and issued a temporary closure order and a notice of violation to the resort on September 6, 2023.
Moving Forward
While development is important for economic growth, authorities and developers must prioritize sustainable practices and adhere to regulations aimed at preserving our ecological treasures, ensuring that they do not come at the expense of our natural heritage.
READ: 10 Majestic Philippine Animals You Should Know
The controversy surrounding the Chocolate Hills resort serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between development and conservation. We are only tenants on this earth. So we must protect these natural wonders and preserve the diverse array of life that makes our planet so extraordinary.
