In a move that has sparked widespread condemnation, the mayors of Bohol’s Third District have proceeded with a leisure trip to Japan despite the recent declaration of a State of Calamity in the province.
The juxtaposition of elected officials enjoying overseas luxuries while their constituents grapple with the aftermath of El Niño calamity has ignited a fierce debate on public service priorities and the optics of governance.
The province of Bohol, which came in national limelight after suspension of Gov. Aris Aumentado and 68 other officials over Chocolate Hills resort fiasco, is again thrust into the spotlight for reasons far removed from its usual touristic appeal.
The declaration of a State of Calamity came in the wake of severe agricultural damage, leaving many residents and farmers in dire need of assistance.
Critics argue that the timing of the mayors’ trip reflects a disconnect with the hardships faced by the people they serve.
The stark contrast between leisure and suffering has not gone unnoticed, with images of poverty-stricken areas in Bohol circulating on social media alongside reports of the mayors’ activities in Japan.
Advocates for the mayors have cited pre-planned engagements and potential investment opportunities as justifications for the trip.
However, these arguments have done little to quell the public ire, with many calling for accountability and a re-evaluation of leadership priorities.
As Bohol grapples with recovery efforts from months of drought and post-Covid pandemic struggle, the actions of its leaders remain under scrutiny.
PUBLIC BACKLASH
The delegation of mayors from Bohol’s Third District, led by Congresswoman Alexie Tutor, has come under fire for proceeding with a trip to Japan during a declared State of Calamity in their province.
The excursion, allegedly sponsored by a contractor, has been met with public outcry as images of suffering and poverty in Bohol starkly contrast the leisurely travels of its leaders.
In defense of the trip, Cong. Tutor stated in a Facebook post, “We are ONE SOLID DISTRICT SA TERSERO. After all the planning, at long last nadayon ra gyud ang among Japan Trip. Like you, we too enjoy traveling to see what good practices we can adopt from other places.”
Addressing the criticism head-on, she continued, “Stress mo, samot na mi so we need a break too. It’s definitely a personal expense. Travel Authority was even doubly secured, from the province and directly from our Central Office at DILG by Sec. Abalos.”
Tutor emphasized the importance of exposure to new ideas for effective governance: “We learned more when we travel. How can we be effective if we just stay within the 4-corners of our place?”
She reassured constituents that services continue uninterrupted: “Dili maguol kay bisan wala mi dha, tanan klaseng serbisyo nagpadayon para sa katawhan.”
Tutor highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, social services, and personal advocacies like housing and public transportation as evidence of their commitment.
In a direct message to detractors, Tutor concluded, “P.S. Kaning mga suyaon, padayon lang mo. Suya pa more ingna pod ng inyong mga desperadong amo dha, nga sana all pareha sa tersero.”
But her statement has done little to dampen the controversy as debates rage on about the optics and timing of such trips amidst local hardships, social media posts have shown.