Hotelier Hans Schoof is now an adopted son of Tagbilaran. In a resolution sponsored en mass and seconded en mass, the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) on Friday formally declared the long-time Baclayon resident an adopted son of the city. All SP members present voted for the resolution in a session where only Councilors Lucille Yap-Lagunay and Alberta Co-Torralba were absent. The councilors noted that Schoof has been a resident of the Philippines since 1986 and is married to a Boholana which proves his intention to permanently reside in the country. They also noted that Schoof is a distinguished member of the Knights of Rizal and held various positions, the last of which was deputy supreme commander, the highest post for a non-Filipino member.

According to the resolution, Schoof has been a magnanimous patron of the city in different civic and social programs. It also considered that Schoof has served as technical consultant on historical and cultural affairs of the city without compensation. “(Schoof) has conducted himself with dignity and respect all the years that he has resided in Bohol,” the resolution added. The SP said Schoof has become a virtual resident of Tagbilaran where he spends his time practically every day with very few exceptions. Schoof has indicated his interest to continue serving Tagbilaran in unofficial but significant ways that redounds to the benefit of the city.

The councilors also took noted that Schoof has not committed any act that would destroy the name and denigrate the prestige of Tagbilaran. They also considered that he has contributed much to the city and its people. “All these show that (Schoof) has contributed much to (Tagbilaran) and its people,” the resolution noted. Schoof is also one of the investors who have contributed to the economy of the province when he built the high-end Peacock Garden Resort and Spa in Upper Baclayon. The resort is an emerging must-visit destination of fine-dining and culture enthusiasts owing to its impressive and detailed architecture and elegant interior design.