By BIN Staff | 11:47 AM October 23, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY — Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado is set to personally appeal to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for leniency and more time for local residents and business owners within the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument (CHNM) to comply with environmental requirements, following the issuance of Notices of Violation (NOVs) by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
During a special meeting of the CHNM Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) on Wednesday, Aumentado said he will formally ask the DOJ to consider the unique situation of affected communities across Carmen, Sagbayan, Batuan, and Bilar, where more than 400 establishments were issued NOVs for allegedly operating without Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECCs).
“This is a very big challenge for us. Even we, in the provincial government, are affected by this situation,” Aumentado said. “We will meet with DOJ officials to explain our sentiments and ask for time so our people can comply properly.”
The governor said he has already reached out to the House Committee on Environment to help facilitate talks with the DOJ and push for a more compassionate approach to the enforcement of the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Act.
Aumentado noted that many of the affected residents have already submitted their ECC applications but are still awaiting DENR’s response. He stressed that these individuals are not defying the law but are trying to sustain their livelihood within long-inhabited lands that later became part of the protected zone.
Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Handel Lagunay said the provincial government is working closely with Bohol’s district representatives to propose amendments to the E-NIPAS law, particularly on possible exemptions for long-time occupants.
“We will present to the DOJ that the provincial government is taking proactive steps—such as consultations and clarifying boundaries—to ensure fairness while upholding environmental protection,” Lagunay said.
Aumentado admitted that the situation has caused confusion and even disciplinary actions against some barangay officials. “This is a lesson learned. Several barangay captains have been suspended because of this issue. That’s why we need to find balance and solutions,” he said. With reporta from PIMO
