DENR orders closure of unauthorized resort in CHNM

The Chocolate Hills Natural Monument (CHNM) in Bohol remains a site for several private resorts despite being a protected area.

Captain's Peak Garden and Resort in Sagbayan, Bohol, has been operating without an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), despite obtaining building permits from the municipality since 2020.

The resort continued to operate until March 2024, even after receiving multiple notices of violation from the DENR for lack of ECC and other environmental violations.

DENR Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga revealed that the resort owner was well aware of the requirement to obtain an ECC but failed to comply with it, leading to ongoing legal and administrative penalties.

The DENR has issued a cease and desist order to ensure the resort remains closed while they investigate further violations and assess potential criminal liabilities under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Law.