2 Bohol mayors cry foul on suspension over Chocolate Hills resort

The two mayors allegedly involved in the controversial resort built inside the Chocolate Hills protected area in Bohol cried foul over their suspension, saying allowing the construction of the establishment is beyond their capacity.

The Ombudsman earlier issued a six-month preventive suspension on six officials related to the construction of the Captain's Peak Garden and Resort in the town of Sagbaya. Among them were Carmen, Bohol Mayor Conchito Delos Reyes and Batuan, Bohol Mayor Antonino Humawid.

According to a 24 Oras report Tuesday, both mayors argued they have no control in the issuance of environmental compliance certificates (EECs), building construction, and business operations in another municipality.

Delos Reyes expressed surprise over her suspension while Humawid called on the national government to amend the law and allow the construction of comfort rooms and stores in Batuan, which is considered a protected area.

An ECC is required for the construction of buildings in the municipality, the report added. —Sundy Locus/RF, GMA Integrated News