The Now-Trending Resort in Chocolate Hills Announced Temporary Closure

Bohol's Chocolate Hills, a UNESCO geopark and natural wonder, has been controversial. Captain's Peak Resort, nestled within the protected area, has sparked outrage online. Netizens and environmental groups are questioning how the resort in Chocolate Hills was built and calling for stricter enforcement to safeguard this geological treasure.

According to reports, Buton acquired the 5-hectare property in 2005. Initially intended for farming, the acidic soil proved unsuitable, prompting Buton to convert the land into the now-controversial Captain's Peak Resort in 2018. Netizens and environmental groups are questioning how the resort secured permits and are calling for stricter enforcement to safeguard this geological treasure.

Clouds of controversy continue to swirl around Captain's Resort in Bohol's Carmen municipality. While local government officials haven't issued a definitive explanation, reports indicate potential environmental regulation violations. This Chocolate Hills resort allegedly operated without the crucial Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) or might have needed to have adhered to construction guidelines within the protected Chocolate Hills Landscape.

However, the resort owner maintains they secured an ECC, although they opted to proceed with the construction even though approval has yet to be given. This conflicting information underscores the need for a thorough investigation. Carmen's local government is likely gathering evidence and formulating an official response to address public concerns and ensure the area's environmental integrity.

The Bohol Provincial Government has vehemently opposed the construction of Captain's Peak resort within the Chocolate Hills Protected Landscape, a UNESCO Global Geopark. They are deeply concerned about the potential damage to this fragile ecosystem.

The Captain's Peak controversy is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between development and environmental protection. While tourism benefits economically, unchecked construction within protected areas significantly threatens our natural heritage. This situation compels us to acknowledge the crucial role of the community, the importance of well-defined regulations, and the need for transparent and consistent inspections.

The Captain's Peak controversy offers valuable lessons. It highlights the importance of fostering community involvement, establishing well-defined regulations, and conducting regular inspections. By prioritizing these aspects, we can chart a course for sustainable development that safeguards the beauty and ecological richness of protected areas for generations to come. Only through a collaborative effort, clear guidelines, and consistent enforcement can we ensure our natural treasures remain protected from man-made destruction. Let Captain's Peak serve as a wake-up call, a reminder that the future of our environment depends on collective action and unwavering commitment to responsible development.

As of today, the resort has been temporarily closed, as announced on their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/captainspeakgarden2018.

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