BY DAVE SUAN ALBARADO
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado is facing a surge of public criticism following his defense of Bohol’s congressmen, including his wife, Rep. Vanessa Aumentado, who supported the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Netizens took to social media to express their outrage, accusing the governor of political opportunism and betraying public trust.
In a video post by DYTR Bohol, Aumentado’s justification on his wife’s decision to push for Duterte’s impeachment was flooded with more than 8,000 hostile and negative comments.
Aumentado’s attempt to explain the impeachment move has done little to appease the angered public.
Critics argue that his alignment with Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), the party of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., influenced his stance.
One netizen, posting in all caps, accused the governor of making excuses to justify his wife’s decision.
“MAGHAHANAP KA TALAGA NG PALUSOT!!! ANG KAPAL NG MUKHA MO. WAG KANG PA-VICTIM,” the post read.
Others slammed him for allegedly prioritizing political alliances over public welfare.
“They sided with politicians who control election funds rather than serving the people,” another commenter said.
Several residents criticized the governor and other officials for embodying what they called “traditional politicians” (trapo), whom they accuse of serving personal and party interests over the needs of their constituents.
“Kayong mga traditional politicians, tandaan niyo, ang sweldo niyo galing sa taumbayan, hindi sa politikong niluluhuran niyo,” another user wrote, stressing that elected officials are accountable to the people, not to their political patrons.
Aumentado’s claim that the impeachment was meant to give Duterte a chance to defend herself in the Senate did not sit well with many Boholanos.
Critics countered that he and his allies could have remained neutral rather than actively supporting the move.
“No need to give statements just to justify why you signed the impeachment. Kung walang kapalit na pera, pwede naman kayong mag-abstain,” a netizen argued.
Others pointed out that instead of engaging in national politics, Aumentado should focus on addressing pressing issues in Bohol, such as rising fish prices.
“TAGAE UG PAGTAGAD NANG MGA PALITUNON SA BOHOL, GOV! ILABINA ANANG PRESYO SA ISDA,” wrote one frustrated resident, saying that economic struggles remain unaddressed.
Ad Reyna, another critic, mocked the governor’s reasoning, saying, “Mura man kag nakig-storya ug bata nga way buot, Gov!” (It’s like you’re talking to a child without understanding, Gov!).
Among the most vocal complaints were accusations that Aumentado and the Bohol lawmakers betrayed Vice President Duterte, despite previously enjoying a close relationship with her.
Some netizens referenced Rep. Vanessa Aumentado’s familial ties to Duterte, noting that the vice president is the godmother of her daughter.
“Nasilaw lang mo sa kwarta. Kamo, anad na mo ug pag-traydor sa katawhan. Inyong gitraydor si Sara Duterte, inyong mare,” one commenter fumed.
Others questioned the sudden shift in political loyalty, linking it to financial incentives.
Bamboo Balot alleged that Rep. Vanessa Aumentado had recently acquired an expensive diamond necklace worth P15 million.
“Gehimo man ninyo negosyo ang katawhan! Daku mo ug ginansya,” he added, suggesting that the couple had profited from political decisions.
With the May 2025 elections approaching, the backlash against Aumentado may have political consequences.
Some voters openly declared their support for his opponent, former Tagbilaran mayor Atty. Dan Neri Lim.
“Ayaw mo kalimot kay Governor Atty. Dan Lim, Vice Gov. Gerardo Garcia – apo ni President Carlos P. Garcia,” a netizen reminded the public, pointing to alternative candidates.
Speculation is also growing over possible candidates for vice governor, including Nick Besas, the father of Rep. Alexie Besas Tutor, another lawmaker who signed the impeachment.
Critics fear that political families are merely consolidating power rather than serving public interests.
“Bag-o na ta! Every three years, lain napod. Kung maayo, ipadayon. Kung dili, pulihan!” a resident remarked, calling for change in the upcoming elections.
Despite the uproar, Aumentado has remained defiant, urging the public to move on.
He insists that the impeachment process is democratic and does not automatically mean Duterte is guilty.
However, critics warn that the political gamble may backfire if the Senate ultimately clears Duterte of wrongdoing.