Bohol board member BenjieArcamo has promised assistance to the dive guides of Balicasag Island, according to an interview with DYTR’s ArdyAraneta-Batoy.
Arcamo expressed his readiness to discuss the guides’ concerns directly with Panglao Mayor Edgardo “Boy” Arcay, whom he described as an objective leader capable of addressing these issues.
He noted the diving industry’s importance in providing stable income for local residents, praising the professionalism and ethical standards maintained by the dive guides.
His personal involvement in diving, alongside his wife, has given him insight into the growth and economic impact of the industry in Panglao.
Arcamo commended the self-regulation and cooperative spirit among the diving community, expressing hope for increased responsibility and responsiveness to client needs.
In a related development, Arcamo clarified the circumstances surrounding the rejection of a proposed anti-discrimination ordinance at the Bohol Provincial Board which was authored by Board Member Mimi Boniel.
The ordinance, which was supported by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), was blocked by members of the Abante Bohol faction.
Arcamo pointed out that the ordinance had already passed its first reading in January 2024 and had been discussed in a committee meeting.
However, during the second reading, the measure was “junked” due to opposition from the Abante Bohol members.
He argued that there was no need for reintroducing the ordinance since it had previously cleared the first reading with the same composition of the SangguniangPanlalawigan (SP).
Arcamo attempted to move directly to the second reading, stating that the objections to the measure were not about its content but rather the procedural handling.
Despite his efforts to sponsor the ordinance for a second reading, with no objections during the session, the majority requested more time to study the measure, leading to its delay.
Arcamo pointed out the urgency from the DILG to pass the ordinance, noting the time-saving aspect of his approach.