In a recent development, reports have surfaced regarding the proliferation of commercial establishments in the protected area of Mt. Apo in Davao. This issue was brought to light by Sen. Raffy Tulfo during a privilege speech delivered on Monday night. Tulfo highlighted that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources confirmed the existence of these establishments, which were allegedly given a two-year permit to operate.
In response to this, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the construction of the Captain’s Peak Resort at the Chocolate Hills. DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos stated that a team from the Bohol Task Force has been deployed to Sagbayan town to assess the accountability of local government officials involved.
Tulfo also mentioned the construction of several resorts in the Mt. Apo National Reserve, including Twin Mountain View Resort, Monte Frio Resort, and Villa Recurso. Expressing concern for the environment, especially since President Marcos ordered the preservation of Mt. Apo last year, Tulfo questioned the legality of these structures and their impact on the ecosystem.
The Bohol Task Force is also set to investigate other structures around the Chocolate Hills, with Abalos emphasizing the need to hold those responsible accountable. Issues such as land conversion, water pollution, introduction of foreign species, and inappropriate livelihood activities were highlighted by Tulfo, prompting a call for more stringent protection measures for Mt. Apo. The Bohol task force will be recommending legal actions against those found to be in violation of environmental laws.
