MANILA, Philippines 鈥� The (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 鈥渁ffirms its deep concern over the construction of the Captain鈥檚 Peak resort within the hallowed grounds of Bohol鈥檚 Chocolate Hills.鈥�
搁贰础顿:听DENR stops operation of Chocolate Hills resort
鈥淲e have mobilized a special investigation team to swiftly ascertain any liability of local officials in this matter,鈥� the DILG added.
The agency warned that local officials who will be found 鈥渃omplicit or negligent鈥� with respect to any violation will have to face legal action.
鈥淭hese officials may be suspended or dismissed,鈥� said the DILG.
搁贰础顿:听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鈥檚 Peak Garden and Resort operating within the Chocolate Hills.
鈥淭he 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,鈥� DENR Undersecretary for Field Operations Juan Miguel Cuna said in a press conference.
鈥淭hat is where we are right now, and we are closely monitoring the Captain鈥檚 Peak to ensure that they remain closed and not open for operations,鈥� he added.