The recent uproar over a resort constructed within Bohol’s iconic Chocolate Hills has prompted a swift response from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The resort, which gained significant attention on social media, was built directly within the cherished landscape of the Chocolate Hills, a protected area and a National Geological Monument.
In a statement released shortly after the public outcry, the DENR emphasized the significance of the Chocolate Hills as a protected area. It highlighted that the site was declared protected as early as 1997, recognizing its unique geological features and ecological importance. Designated as both a National Geological Monument and a Protected Landscape, the Chocolate Hills hold immense for Bohol and also for the Philippines as a whole.
The resort’s construction within this protected area has sparked widespread disappointment and concern among netizens and environmental advocates alike. Many expressed dismay over the potential environmental impact of the resort on the delicate ecosystem of the Chocolate Hills. Images circulating online depict the altered landscape, with the natural beauty of the hills disrupted by the imposing structures of the resort.
The DENR’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural wonders and respecting designated protected areas. It underscores the need for sustainable development practices that prioritize conservation and environmental stewardship. While tourism can bring economic benefits to local communities, it must be balanced with the imperative to safeguard our natural heritage for future generations.
The controversy surrounding the resort in the Chocolate Hills highlights the ongoing tension between development and conservation. It prompts reflection on how best to reconcile the competing interests of economic progress and environmental protection. Finding solutions that promote sustainable development while preserving the integrity of our natural landscapes is crucial in ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and the environment.
DENR STATEMENT ON THE CHOCOLATE HILLS IN BOHOL pic.twitter.com/QaVtusEOWu
— Department of Environment and Natural Resources (@DENROfficial) March 13, 2024
Moving forward, it is imperative for stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and private enterprises, to engage in dialogue and collaboration to find mutually beneficial solutions. By working together, we can strive towards a future where development complements rather than compromises the natural beauty and ecological integrity of places like the Chocolate Hills. Only through collective effort and commitment can we ensure the preservation of our precious natural heritage for generations to come.