DENR orders probe into excessive food charges in Bohol

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-7 has ordered an investigation into the alleged excessive charging of food meals in the Virgin Island in Panglao, Bohol.

DENR-7 regional executive director Paquito Melicor, Jr., in his memorandum dated August 2, 2022, has directed Bohol Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Ariel Rica to coordinate with the local government unit of Panglao and the management of Protected Area Management Board of Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS) on the matter.

Bohol PENRO is instructed to investigate and to submit recommendations not later than today.

Melicor said that Virgin Island is within the PIPS, which was created under Republic Act 11038 otherwise known as the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Law.

A receipt (not an official receipt issued by the Bureau of Internal Revenue) amounting to P26,100 for various foods and drinks ordered for a group of people went viral after it was posted on Facebook.

The receipt showed items as follows: Abalone = 2,500; isda (sabaw)= 1,800; isda (kilaw)= 3,000; isda (sugba) = 2,500; scallop = 3,000; oyster = 3,000; squid = 2,800; lato = 800; baby squid = 1,500; urchin = 2,300; saging = 900; softdrinks = 1,300; and beer = 1,000.

“Ingon ani na diay kamahal ang pagkaon sa virgin island, bohol??? Just airing the sentiments of my friend who recently enjoying their vacation in bohol.. pero na shock cla sa ila bill.. mahal pa sa buffet sa HENNAN resort ..... pls note : 13 pax cla lahat.." said a certain Vilma Uy in her Facebook post that went viral. _ Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/