The Municipal Government of Opol has temporarily closed all roads leading to Happy Hills in Barangay Awang pursuant to Municipal Ordinances No. 2026-05 and No. 2025-06. The closure will be enforced from March 25 to April 1, 2026, in preparation for Holy Week, and from April 6 to 17, 2026. The measure follows a hazard assessment that identified risks associated with the area’s steep terrain, limited safety infrastructure, and growing volume of visitors. Authorities said the intervention aims to prevent accidents, protect the environment, and ensure more efficient emergency response.
The move comes as Happy Hills continues to gain attention as an emerging tourist destination. A recent risk assessment found that continued visitor access has led to overcrowding and congestion, posing potential hazards due to steep slopes and the lack of safety infrastructure, such as railings, that could help protect both motorists and the public.
Officials have already deployed personnel to enforce the closure order.
The site, which became accessible following the completion of the two-lane concrete road, gained traction on social media due to its expansive scenic views of the natural landscape.
Local barangay officials have also begun collecting trash left behind by visitors in the area.
Read copies of the municipal ordinances below.
Municipal Ordinance 2026-05
Municipal Ordinance 2026-06
