Atok residents oppose proposed hotel project

ATOK, Benguet — A municipal councilor and local residents in this scenic highland town are raising strong opposition to a proposed P400-million hotel project, warning it threatens local water supplies, homestay livelihoods, and the area’s agricultural identity.

The proposed development by Atok Hospitality Development Corp. calls for a 50- to 70-room facility in Proper Paoay, complete with restaurants, spas, conference halls, souvenir shops and transportation services.

Councilor Kelly Tomas and resident advocates urged the community to remain unified against handing the local tourism sector over to outside investors.

Tomas warned that a fully integrated commercial complex could monopolize the local tourism supply chain, squeezing out homestay operators, small eateries, tour guides and drivers.

“Our LGUs and municipalities should focus on empowering residents,” Tomas said, calling on community members to participate in upcoming consultations under the Free, Prior and Informed Consent process.

Critics also pointed to infrastructure limits, noting that Atok already faces water supply shortages and lacks a fully resolved waste management system.