Chatto lauds Yulo’s feat
Cong. Edgar Chatto Carlos Yulo
Cong. Edgar Chatto lauded the incredible feat achieved by double Olympic gold medalist, Carlos Yulo.
The solon filed a resolution on Aug. 5, 2024, which acknowledges the incredible feat of the Filipino gymnast.
Yulo, over the weekend, became the first Filipino male athlete to win an Olympic gold medal, twice over.
Yulo ruled the men’s floor exercise and vault events at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Chatto lauded Yulo’s one-of-a-kind performance that brought glory to the Philippines and joy to Filipinos.
Yulo is also the first Southeast Asian athlete to win a gold medal in the gymnastics event at the Olympics.
He is only the second Filipino to win an Olympic gold medal after weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz.
Yulo’s golden performance comes as the Philippines celebrate the 100th anniversary of the country’s participation at the Olympics. The first time the country participated in the Olympics was in 1924, when the country sent David Nepomuceno, a track athlete.
In a post, Chatto lauded Yulo for his sterling performance in two gymnastic events.
Yulo also participated in the all-around event in Olympic gymnastics, but failed to win a medal.
The leadership of the House of Representatives is set to provide financial incentives to Yulo after his golden performance.
Dengue remains a problem in Tagb says CHO
City Health Office spokesman Robin Culpa said dengue remains a huge problem in Tagbilaran City and the said office is busy implementing mitigation efforts.
In a Newsmakers ug Uban Pa radio interview, Culpa told Ardy Araneta-Batoy that dengue cases are on the rise.
In July 2024, he said there were 47 people afflicted with dengue.
Culpa said a huge majority of patients belong to the school age group, whose ages range from 0 to 12 years old.
Culpa said that the best way to protect oneself from dengue is to prevent mosquito bites.
Mosquitoes, particularly the aegis egypti, is a vector for the dengue virus and oftentimes victimize young children as these insects are low-flying and frequently bite young children.
For this reason, efforts have been launched to eradicate mosquitoes and to promote early detection.
Mosquitoes transmit the dengue virus from one person to another when the insect bites an infected human and proceeds to bite another, Culpa explained.
Thus to prevent an epidemic from happening, health experts suggest the cleaning of surroundings and also to seek immediate medical attention when symptoms appear.
Culpa said dengue is more fatal than Covid as more people die from dengue than with Covid.
Moreover, Culpa explained that if an area is known to have dengue cases, mosquitoes in the area are presumed to be infected with the virus.
He said the Department of Health (DOH) has raised alarm as Bohol has logged the most number of dengue cases in Central Visayas.
The DOH forecasted the possibility of a dengue outbreak by last quarter of 2024 or first quarter of 2025, Culpa warned.
He urged people to clean surroundings and to remove stagnant water in areas where mosquitoes could breed.
Key Boholano politicians join PFP
Key Boholano politicians have become members of the ruling Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) after they took their oaths in a local restaurant in Tagbilaran City on Aug. 7, 2024.
Tubigon mayor William Jao and Alburquerque mayor Don Ritchie Buates were among those who took their oaths before PFP Bohol chairman, Dimiao vice mayor Jessie Paluga.
The two mayors used to be members of the National Unity Party (NUP). The provincial head of NUP is Cong. Edgar Chatto. NUP has an alliance with President Marcos Jr.
Other politicians who took their oaths as members of PFP are Panglao vice mayor Noel Hormachuelos, Tubigon vice mayor Rene Villaber, Vice Mayor Lloyd Lopez of Loon, and Vice Mayor Sinforiano Labastida of Guindulman.
Included among those who took their oaths as members of PFP were former Tagbilaran City vice mayor Jose Antonio Veloso, former Dimiao vice mayor Danilo Guevencan, former Bien Unido vice mayor Ramon Arcenal and other local officials.
Paluga said the party is open to anyone who wishes to become members.
He said the party is slowly building its coordinators across Bohol from the provincial down to the barangay level.
Reports say businessman to join Atoy’s ticket
A businessman is reportedly gunning for a seat in the city council under the ticket of mayoralty aspirant Coun. Melvin “Atoy” Torralba in next year’s elections.
Gerardo Madanguit is reportedly going to run for city councilor under Torralba’s ticket.
He joins incumbent Coun. Odyssus Glovasa and Elmer Taldo of Poblacion 2.
Madanguit is a certified public accountant who is a businessman and owns a golf course in Panglao.
The entire line-up of Torralba’s ticket remains under wraps.
Former Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso has been named as Torralba’s running mate.
Meanwhile, Asenso Pa More of Mayor Jane Yap has yet to name the replacement of Glovasa in its ticket. Glovasa was earlier named as among the councilors in the Asenso ticket but he decided to join Torralba instead.
Besas’ son to fill vacant slot in Asenso ticket
Following the reports that Philippine Councilors’ League (PCL)-Bohol chapter president Board Member Nicanor Besas is being tapped as reinstated Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado’s running mate in next year’s elections, Besas’ son is eyed to fill a vacant slot in the Asenso Pa More ticket.
Besas’ son, Gian, will run as councilor instead of his father in the 2025 elections, reports say.
Gian, is the brother of Cong. Kristine Alexie Besas-Tutor, and will be filling up the slot vacated by the elder Besas.
The elder Besas was included in the line-up of Asenso Pa More, headed by Tagbilaran City mayor Jane Yap. He won a city council seat in 2022 after having been a long-time village chief of Cogon. He is a known ally of the Yaps, who has recently aligned with Aumentado’s Abante Bohol group.
Ironically, the elder Besas ran under the Asenso ticket in 2019 aligned with Padayon Bol-anon, which at that time was diametrically opposed to the Kumbati group of his daughter, Cong. Tutor.
Now, it seems that a recalibration has happened within the Kumbati and Abante groups and settled on the elder Besas to become the running mate of Aumentado in next year’s elections.
The naming of Gian as a bet for councilor was revealed by the elder Besas himself, according to reports.
Gian, 32, is the elder Besas’ youngest child and will be soon formally introduced as a bet of Asenso Pa More.
Meanwhile, the slot vacated by Coun. Odyssus Glovasa remains vacant as Asenso’s leadership is still in the process of finding a replacement.
Several names have been floated but it seems that the Asenso group is taking its time as the first day of filing is still set on the first week of October.
Chatto urges House to pass bill on loss, damage board
Cong. Edgar Chatto
Cong. Edgar Chatto delivered a privilege speech on Aug. 6, 2024 as he urged members of the House of Representatives to pass the bill related to the loss and damage board.
Chatto authored a bill that responds to the request of President Marcos Jr. to pass legislation providing juridical personality and legal framework on loss and damage fund board.
Back in July, the Philippines was awarded with the right to host the loss and damage fund board.
The loss and damage fund is meant to provide reparation to countries hardest hit by the effects of climate change.
The bill, when it becomes a law, will give the loss and damage board a legal personality to operate within the country.
Chatto in his speech to members of the House of Representatives, highlighted the losses incurred by the Philippine economy as a result of climate change, not to mention the loss of life and livelihood.
He said that as a Boholano, he was witness to how typhoon Odette caused massive damage to Bohol and other regions, prompting the need to act against climate change.
He pointed out that climate change also affected areas in Bohol, particularly Tubigon, an island that has been taking in water as residents need to relocate to safer grounds.
PetecIo settles for bronze, falls short of finals
Nesty Petecio, who traces her ancestry to Bohol, failed to win in ber semifinal match against a spirited opponent in Paris on Aug. 8, 2024.
Petecio stormed out of the gates with her big lefts sending Poland’s Julia Szeremeta reeling but could not carry that effort into the final two rounds of their 57kg semifinal bout on Thursday morning in Manila at Stade Roland Garros.
Szeremeta reached the finals after winning on four of five.
The 20-year-old Polish fighter, the youngest semifinalist in the women’s boxing event, fought back into contention in the second round after getting shut out in the first, using her reach to blunt Petecio’s combinations.
With well-timed counters, Szeremeta evened up the cards heading into the third and then continued to up her work rate, as Petecio seemed content looking for landing spots for her big combinations.
Boholano seaman laid to rest as questions remain about his death
The Boholano seaman who died in the United Kingdom has been laid to rest as questions remain about the truth surrounding his death.
Gerfe Cadeliña’s remains were laid to rest on Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024 after his body was flown from the United Kingdom and arrived in Bohol last Sunday.
Cadeliña, who was a native of Sierra Bullones, allegedly took his own life but his wife refuses to believe her husband was capable of doing that,
Erah, the wife, who has sought an investigation into Gerfe’s death, will now await the coroner’s report, which may be released soon.
Gerfe was found dead inside the toilet in the vessel where he was serving as a seafarer.
Erah refuses to believe that Gerfe took his own life as she said her husband was even excited to return home because they were expecting another child.
Erah suspects possible foul play surrounding Gerfe’s death.
Wage board eyes hearing in Bohol for possible wage hike
The Regional Tripsrtite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) is eying to convene for a public hearing in Tagbilaran City, any time next month, to possibly discuss a wage hike across Central Visayas.
The public hearing will gather information among stakeholders in relation to a possible adjustment in the minimum daily wage in the region.
Aside from Tagbilaran City, the RTWPB, will also conduct similar public hearings in other areas within Central Visayas such as in Cebu City, Balamban and Bogo City, with one public hearing slated at Dumaguete City. The Bohol public hearing will be held on Sept.3, 2024 at Metrocentre Hotel.
In a statement, RTWPB-7 said that on top of discussing the issue on minimum wage adjustment, the wage board will also solicit the stakeholders position on the possible simplification of the wage structure.
To date, Region VII has six different rates, the third-most number of minimum wage rates nationwide.
The series of public hearings is part of the wage board’s mandate to periodically review the minimum wages in the region and if justified, to issue a wage order.
The public hearing is called to gather the general sentiments of the concerned stakeholders, which shall be taken into consideration when the wage board makes its decision later, it said in its statement.
OPA moves to exterminate fall army worms in Trinidad
Experts from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) conducted extermination activities to eliminate fall army worms that have caused problems in Trinidad town. The experts conducted the extermination on Aug. 6, 2024.
The experts used pesticides to eliminate the fall army worms, which have caused problems among corn farmers. Fall army worms feed on corn, reports say.
The extermination activity was revealed by OPA OIC Larry Pamugas in an interview with the media on Aug. 6, 2024.
Bohol has more than 5,000 hectares of corn fields but only 834 hectares have been planted with corn, Pamugas said, as 259 hectares out of the 834 hectares are affected with fall army worms.
Aside from Trinidad, other towns affected with the infestation are Getafe, Dagohoy, Sierra Bullones, Carman, San Miguel, Dimiao, Carman, Valencia, Mabini, Danao, and Talibon.
It is possible that extermination will be happen thrice or may depend on the extent of the infestation, reports indicate.
DPWH says causeway fish terminal to be expanded
The first district engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) John Paul Gascon revealed plans about the expansion of the fish terminal at the causeway linking Tagbilaran City to Dauis, reports on Aug. 7, 2024 said.
Gascon told reporters that the project costs around P144 million sourced from the national budget,
The funding for the said project was made possible with the help of Cong. Edgar Chatto, who is the congressman of the first district where Dauis and Tagbilaran City belong.
Gascon said that the contractor is now preparing for the initial phase of construction for the fish terminal’s expansion.
The fish terminal’s expansion will feature a parking area without the need for reclamation, Gascon said.
The contractor is expected to finally start with the project within the current month, he added.
COMELEC to hold voters registration inside Cabawan jails
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) will be holding voters’ registration activity in jails located in barangay Cabawan – the host of Bohol District Jail and Tagbilaran City Jail.
The COMELEC will be registering the inmates or those persons deprived of liberty (PDL), so they can vote in next year’s elections.
COMELEC Tagbilaran election registrar Rocco Lamanilao said that they will be letting the PDLs register aligned with a 2022 Supreme Court decision that allows inmates to register and vote in the elections.
PDLs whose cases are being litigated or are under appeal, may register and vote, according to the Supreme Court ruling.
The exact date when the registration will take place is going to be announced soon.
Lamanilao said the inmate registration will depend on the schedule given by the jail management.
Meanwhile, those who are eligible to vote may register from Monday to Saturday, including holidays and the registration will end on Sept. 30, 2024. Those who wish to register may do so at their respective COMELEC offices.
Search continues for missing mother, son from Loay
The search continues for the missing mother and son from Loay town after more than a month when they were allegedly abducted by unidentified persons.
It was said that Fritzie Acaac and her son John Michael Murillo were abducted by unidentified men from their home at barangay Villalimpia, Loay.
The two were said to be inside the family’s store within their home when the alleged abduction took place.
Other family members tried to prevent the abduction from happening but the unidentified men who were armed, overpowered those who tried to stop the abduction.
The two abductees were forced to board a van and witnesses were able to get the van’s plate number but it turned out to be fake.
The police are now trying to find leads in order to locate the whereabouts of the two victims.
The alleged abduction happened in June and up to this time, there is no information regarding the whereabouts of the two victims.
Several angles are being pursued regarding the alleged abductioon including the involvement of Acaac with the drug trade. Acaac was released after a plea bargain.
Former Lila mayor dies, 65
Former Lila town mayor Telesforo Balagosa died due to lingering illness, reports indicated on Aug. 7, 2024.
Balagosa died in his home in Lila in early morning of Aug. 7, 2024. He was 65 and is survived by his wife and children.
Lila mayor Arturo Jed Piollo expressed his sympathies and condolences upon learning about Balagosa’s death.
Balagosa was a civil engineer and was a three-term town mayor of Lila from 2001 to 2010.
Prior to his election as mayor, he was a town councilor from 1998 to 2001. He was again elected as councilor in 2019 and in 2022. Last year, he resigned as councilor as he battled an illness.
The people of Lila remember him as a helpful and trustworthy man, who showed utmost dedication to his work and profession.
Interment is expected to be announced soon.
A DREAM REALIZED: COLLEGIO DE LOBOC’S GRAND OPENING
BY KHEM N. ALVAREZ
Loboc, Bohol – The town of Loboc was abuzz with excitement on Monday, July 29, 2024, as the community came together to celebrate the grand opening of Collegio de Loboc (CdL). Under the inspiring theme “Ignite, Inspire, Innovate: Launching a Legacy of Excellence in Public Service,” the day unfolded with a series of memorable events that showcased the town’s unity and shared vision for the future.
The festivities kicked off with a vibrant three-way motorcade, starting from Barangays Agape, Oy, and Candabong. The motorcades joined at the historic Loboc Plaza, creating a festive atmosphere. From there, participants proceeded to the St. Peter the Apostle Parish Church, where a solemn Holy Mass was held, grounding the day’s celebrations in gratitude and hope. The Holy Mass was presided by Parish Vicar- Rev. Fr. Florecil A. Bongay.
After the mass, the motorcade continued towards Collegio de Loboc, where the ribbon-cutting ceremony awaited. This momentous event symbolized the official opening of the institution, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Loboc’s educational landscape.
A Premiere Institution with World-Class Aspirations
Dr. Marlon S. Jala, the College President, welcomed everyone with a heartfelt address, emphasizing the importance of Collegio de Loboc as a premier local college in the municipality. He highlighted the local government’s vision of transforming CdL into a world-class institution that, despite its humble locality, aims to surpass major universities in providing world-class yet free education to poor but deserving Lobocanons and beyond. Dr. Jala, a visionary and transformative leader, has been instrumental in turning these dreams into reality. He aspires for CdL to become a school of choice where the journey of greatness begins.
Honoring the Dreamers
Former Mayor Leon Calipusan, the dreamer of this institution, emphasized that education is essential to life. His belief in the transformative power of education motivated him to pursue the establishment of a local college in Loboc. This vision was shared by Mr. Argeo Melisimo, a visionary consultant of LGU Loboc, who dreamt of CdL becoming part of a league of premiere colleges in the country.
Hon. Raymond Jala continued the dreams and aspirations of Mayor Leon Calipusan. In his speech, he stated that free and accessible quality tertiary education is the best legacy he can offer to Lobocanons and beyond. This sentiment was echoed by Hon. Helen C. Alaba, Vice Mayor of Loboc, who supported the dream of her brother, Former Mayor Leon Calipusan, to establish a local college in the municipality.
Installation of Key Leaders
A significant highlight of the program was the installation of the Vice Presidents, a ceremony that showcased the strong leadership structure of CdL. Dr. Jimmy D. Bucar, a recognized researcher from SDO Bohol, joined the team as the Vice-President for Research, Innovation, and Community Extension. Dr. Junie P. Tumampos, a young and dynamic leader, assumed the role of Vice President for Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance. Ms. Jered Grace B. Labus, a committed and passionate leader from the University of the Philippines, was introduced as the Vice President for Administration.
Remarkably, Dr. Marvin G. Bongato was installed as the Student Affairs Office Director, recognized for his expertise in Student Leadership and Governance. A member of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) –Bohol Sandugo Chapter, Dr. Bongato will strengthen CdL’s leadership team with his strong commitment to excellence and student development.
Voices of Support and Hope
The day’s celebrations were graced by the presence of all department heads, LGU employees, barangay captains, kagawads, and community members, underscoring the broad support for Collegio de Loboc. Mayor Raymond G. Jala and Former Mayor Leon Calipusan each took the stage to share their reflections on Loboc’s journey and aspirations. Pableo “Bebot” Sumampong, representing Acting Governor Tita Baja, also addressed the audience, reaffirming the provincial government’s support for the new institution.Notably, Board Members Hon. Nathaniel O.Binlod and Loboc’s ownHon. Greg Crispino L. Jala, were also present to give their support to one of the premier local colleges in the Third Congressional District of Bohol. Tzu Chi Foundation’s Deputy Coordinator- Mr. Joven T. Uy and TESDA Representative Mr. Alfie D. Mahumot also graced the said occasion.
Adding to the cultural richness of the event, the world-renowned Loboc Youth Ambassador Band performed an intermission number, showcasing a piece of Loboc’s musical heaven. The contributions of various stakeholders were recognized with the presentation of certificates, acknowledging their invaluable support.
Messages from National Leaders
In a special moment, a video message from Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go was played, expressing his support and encouragement for Collegio de Loboc. Following this, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa delivered a message that resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the crucial role of education and public service in building a better future.
A Fitting Conclusion
As the ceremony drew to a close, Hon. Helen C. Alaba delivered a heartfelt closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all who participated and supported the event. The day concluded on a high note with the mass song “TagumpayNating Lahat,” a stirring anthem that encapsulated the spirit of triumph and collective achievement.
The grand opening of Collegio de Loboc was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful statement of the town’s commitment to igniting, inspiring, and innovating in the realm of public service. With its vision of providing world-class education in a humble locality, Collegio de Loboc is poised to become a beacon of excellence, offering free education to poor but deserving students from Loboc and beyond and marking the beginning of each student’s journey toward greatness.
From L-R: Dr. Jimmy D. Bucar (VP for Research and Community Extension), Dr. Marlon S. Jala (College President), Ms. Myla C. Jimenez, Ms. Patrice Mica Salaga, Mr. Rex Anthony Sarigumba, Ms. Lynn Basanes , Ms.AnalouLuayon, Hon.Asterio B. Calacar, SB Secretary Alexis Taldo., ABC President Alex Mandin., Hon. Jansyl Lovan P. Tumanda, Hon. Marylou O. Budiongan, Mr. Argeo J. Melisimo, Mayor Raymond G. Jala, Vice Mayor Helen C. Alaba, Hon. Rose Katherine Delfin-Odal, Hon. Erwin Baquial, Hon. Wenster C. Dango, Hon. Alexander B. Zafra Jr., Ms. DioscoraSumampong, Ms. Samuela Fuertes, Ms. Christine Digal, Ms. Jelen Nalugon, Dr. Junie P. Tumampos (VP for Academic Affairs.
FROM L-R: ABC President Alex Mandin, Hon. Jansyl Lovan P. Tumanda, Hon. Alexander B. Zafra, Hon. Wenster C. Dango, Hon. Erwin Baquial, Representative of Acting Governor- Mr. Pableo “Bebot” Sumampong, Vice Mayor Helen C. Alaba, Mayor Raymond G. Jala, Mr. Argeo J. Melisimo, Hon. Rose Katherine Delfin-Odal, Hon. Asterio B. Calacar, Hon. Marylou O. Budiongan, Hon. Myka Cempron.