PANGLAO ISLAND, Bohol – The Villa Tomasa-Alona Kew Hotel Resort management has taken legal action against some local government officials of Panglao and private individuals for allegedly harassing them and forcibly seizing the resort in April this year.

In a statement, the resort management said its legal team has filed criminal and civil cases against individuals, including the town's mayor, and warned individuals or groups of individual against entering into any agreements related to the property without their knowledge.

"We are dismayed by the alleged use of excessive force during the resort takeover, causing trauma to our 300 employees and shocking tourists. We have filed a case against those involved amid having been repeatedly denied a business permit," the statement said.

Seeking justice, the management has filed a complaint before the office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. They also call on government agencies like the Department of the Interior Local Government to look into the situation seriously, emphasizing the need to protect both the resort owners and employees.

There are still four years left on a five-year lease agreement for the hotel resort, the management said.

It added that the closure of one of the most popular resorts in Bohol has saddened many small business establishments and local patrons in the area.

"The resort's closure has disrupted the once peaceful atmosphere of Panglao, a renowned relaxation destination, creating a sense of uncertainty among the community," it said.

"The management also warns unscrupulous individuals who will be taking advantage of the resort's current situation not to go to any negotiations without the full knowledge of the owner of the Villa Tomasa-Alona Kew Hotel Resort. If any would be buyer cooperated with the dispossession, they, too, will be made liable criminally."

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