Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos has formed a task force to investigate how a controversial resort was constructed within the Chocolate Hills protected area in Bohol.
“We have mobilized a special investigation team to swiftly ascertain any liability of local officials in this matter,” Abalos said.
He said the DILG was deeply concerned over the construction and operation of the Captain’s Peak Resort despite lacking an Environment Compliance Certificate (ECC).
“Local officials found complicit or negligent with respect to any violation will face legal action. These officials may be suspended or dismissed,” Abalos said.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, for its part, said the resort may face up to a P5 million fine for operating without an ECC.
The department said it will also probe if its local field offices should be held liable for the controversial resort.
Environment Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga earlier lamented the resort was able to obtain a building permit and subsequently a permit to operate from the Sagbayan municipality despite lacking an ECC.
Chocolate Hills is a UNESCO world heritage site and was declared aprotected area through Proclamation No. 1037 issued by the late President Fidel Ramos in 1997.