Governor Files Motion for Reconsideration on Captain’s Peak Case
TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL, Philippines — Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado is set to file a motion for reconsideration before the Office of the Ombudsman following his inclusion in criminal charges related to the controversial Captain’s Peak and Garden Resort within the protected Chocolate Hills area. This four-word keyphrase issue has sparked intense debate among local communities and environmental advocates.
The governor firmly maintains his innocence, asserting that he has not violated any laws or engaged in irregularities connected to the case. Sources close to the governor noted that his legal team is already preparing an appeal, hoping the Ombudsman will overturn its decision.
Governor’s Commitment to Protecting Natural Heritage
Aumentado emphasized his dedication to safeguarding Bohol’s natural treasures. When the controversy surrounding Captain’s Peak erupted in 2023, he promptly ordered an investigation to address the concerns. Community leaders reported that the governor has consistently acted with the province’s environmental protection in mind.
Ombudsman’s Decision and Official Dismissals
On August 12, the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal of Sagbayan Mayor Restituto Suarez III, zoning administrator Maximo Lomosbog, and municipal building official Alan Dinoy for grave misconduct. Several officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) faced similar penalties for gross neglect of duty.
While Aumentado was not dismissed, he was named in criminal complaints along with former Governors Arthur Yap and Edgar Chatto, which are now pending before the Sandiganbayan. Local sources noted that Yap, Chatto, and Suarez have yet to issue official responses.
Reprimand for Absences During Key Meetings
The Ombudsman also reprimanded Governor Aumentado and other local executives for their absences during crucial PAMB meetings from 2018 to 2022. Community members expressed concerns that these absences may have contributed to lapses in the protection of the Chocolate Hills area.
Captain’s Peak Resort Sparks Public Outrage
The Captain’s Peak resort became a focal point of public outrage after viral photos in 2023 revealed its facilities—including a function hall, swimming pool, and cottages—constructed within the iconic Chocolate Hills without the necessary environmental and business permits. Officials reported that these developments violated the protected area’s regulations.
Evidence Preparation for Reconsideration Motion
Governor Aumentado stated that his motion for reconsideration will include evidence demonstrating that he acted lawfully and within his authority. “This case is far from over,” he said. “I remain committed to clearing my name and ensuring the protection of Bohol’s natural treasures.”
On May 20, 2024, Aumentado and other officials received a six-month preventive suspension. However, he and six other mayors were reinstated on July 31, 2024. Other local executives and village chiefs followed later in the year.
Background on the Controversy and Protected Area
The suspension was prompted by the resort’s construction inside the protected Chocolate Hills area in Sagbayan. The resort operator had secured business, building, and locational permits from the mayor for 2020 to 2024, despite failing to obtain clearances from the DENR. Local leaders have highlighted that this situation undermines the legal safeguards designed to preserve the area.
The Chocolate Hills, Bohol’s signature tourist attraction, are protected under the Expanded National Integrated Areas Protected System Act. This natural wonder features approximately 1,776 cone-shaped hills that turn chocolate brown during the dry season. The largest concentrations are found in Bilar, Carmen, Batuan, Sierra Bullones, and Sagbayan towns.
For more news and updates on Captain’s Peak and Garden Resort, visit Filipinokami.com.
