Designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) on May 24, 2023, the provincial government remains resolute in its commitment to preserve the rich natural and cultural heritage of Bohol island.
In an effort to raise awareness of Bohol’s status as a designated UGGp, Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado spearheaded the ceremonial turnover and ribbon-cutting of the Bohol UGGp Information and Assistance Center. Among those present were Carmen Mayor Conchita Toribio-Delos Reyes, Jovencia Ganub, BPEMO head, Joanne Pinat, BPTO OIC, board member Nathaniel Binlod, lawyer Jojo Cagol, municipal administrator, and Sangguniang Bayan member Victoriano Adlaon.
Held on April 8 at the Chocolate Hills Complex, it marked a significant milestone in Bohol’s commitment to balance preservation and development.
The information center is equipped with informative brochures, leaflets, a video presentation showcasing the geosites, photographs of various geosites, and narratives detailing the legend and evolution of the Chocolate Hills.
Aumentado passionately encouraged Boholanos to actively engage in and support the protection of Bohol Island’s natural wonders. He stressed the importance of unity in environmental stewardship, particularly in safeguarding monuments and geosites, to ensure the province’s resilience and sustainability.
“This presents a significant challenge for us, particularly in caring for our beloved Chocolate Hills, which spans across six municipalities,” Aumentado said.
He made the remark during the ceremonial turnover.
“Let us treasure the natural beauty of our Chocolate Hills, and I sincerely hope we can maintain it for the benefit of future generations,” he added.
For her part, Toribio-Delos Reyes expressed gratitude to the governor for establishing the geopark information center in Carmen.
“This center serves as a valuable resource for tourists, providing them with insights into the various geosites they can explore,” she noted.
There is another Geopark booth at the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office which offer tourists and visitors the opportunity to obtain detailed information about the geosites scattered throughout Bohol Island Geopark.
Bohol stands as a premier destination offering a diverse array of attractions, from the iconic Chocolate Hills to pristine white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, cold springs, waterfalls, enchanting caves, verdant forests, historic churches, and more.
As the slogan of another era proudly declared, “Bohol has it all.” (PIMO/ML)