MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has created a task force that will look into the controversy surrounding a resort constructed in the Chocolate Hills protected area in Bohol.
In a statement on Saturday, the agency said that it “affirms its deep concern over the construction of the Captain’s Peak resort within the hallowed grounds of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills.”
READ: DENR stops operation of Chocolate Hills resort
“We have mobilized a special investigation team to swiftly ascertain any liability of local officials in this matter,” the DILG added.
The agency warned that local officials who will be found “complicit or negligent” with respect to any violation will have to face legal action.
“These officials may be suspended or dismissed,” said the DILG.
READ: Probe sought on resort amid Chocolate Hills
Last Friday, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a cease and desist order against the controversial Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort operating within the Chocolate Hills.
“The regional executive director of Region 7 and the regional director of EMB (Environmental Management Bureau) Region 7 issued a joint cease and desist order to the establishment to ensure that they are no longer operating,” DENR Undersecretary for Field Operations Juan Miguel Cuna said in a press conference.
“That is where we are right now, and we are closely monitoring the Captain’s Peak to ensure that they remain closed and not open for operations,” he added.