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In a remarkable development that has captured the attention of conservationists and cultural heritage enthusiasts worldwide, the iconic Chocolate Hills of Bohol, have been officially included in the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
This announcement, made on April 2, 2024, comes amidst a swirl of controversy due to the proposed construction of a resort within the protected area.
The Chocolate Hills, a geological marvel and a prime tourist attraction, are part of a larger group of sites under consideration, which includes the Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape, Mayon Volcano Natural Park, and several other significant natural and cultural landmarks across the Philippines.
UNESCO defines World Heritage Sites as places of “outstanding universal value to humanity,” which are inscribed on the World Heritage List to ensure their preservation for the enjoyment and appreciation of future generations.
The Chocolate Hills, with their unique and striking landscape, certainly fit this description.
The hills, which number around 1,776, are renowned for their uniform conical shape and the way they turn a chocolate brown color during the dry season, from which they derive their name.
Previously, UNESCO recognized the Chocolate Hills as a global geopark, the only one in the Philippines, highlighting their geological significance.
The geopark status underscores the importance of the site not just for its aesthetic beauty but also for its scientific value, offering insights into the earth’s evolutionary history.
The Philippines is no stranger to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, with six properties already inscribed, including the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, the Historic City of Vigan, and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park.
The addition of the Chocolate Hills to this prestigious list would further cement the country’s commitment to preserving its rich natural and cultural heritage.
The inclusion of the Chocolate Hills in the tentative list is a testament to their global significance and the Philippines’ dedication to conservation.
However, the ongoing debate over the resort’s construction poses a challenge to the site’s integrity and the balance between development and preservation.
As the process unfolds, the eyes of the world will be watching, hopeful that this natural wonder will receive the recognition and protection it rightfully deserves.