By I. Inojales | 04:44 PM August 15,2025
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the dismissal of Sagbayan Mayor Restituto Suarez III for Grave Misconduct over the controversial construction of the Captain’s Peak resort in the town’s protected Chocolate Hills area.
Also dismissed were Sagbayan Zoning Officer Maximo Lomosbog and Municipal Building Official Alan Dinoy.
The Ombudsman likewise sacked former Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Bohol chief Ariel Rica, along with other officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), for Gross Neglect of Duty. DENR-7 Executive Director Paquito Melicor was also ordered dismissed from service.
Seven former and incumbent mayors, as well as barangay captains earlier charged in connection with the controversial resort, were cleared of administrative liability.
Meanwhile, Governor Aris Aumentado, former governors Art Yap and Edgar Chatto, and several others are facing criminal charges before the Sandiganbayan in relation to the issue.
The Captain’s Peak resort drew public outrage and national attention after structures were allowed to be built within the protected Chocolate Hills area, a UNESCO-declared natural monument.
In an official statement, Aumentado reiterated his innocence, saying he did not violate any laws in connection with the case. He said his camp is preparing a Motion for Reconsideration before the Ombudsman, hoping the decision will be reviewed and reversed.
Aumentado also reminded the public that when the Captain’s Peak controversy first broke in 2023, he immediately ordered an investigation.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has announced it will investigate other structures within the Chocolate Hills to prevent a repeat of the incident.
