BY DAVE SUAN ALBARADO
A high-value land acquisition spearheaded by Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado has come under scrutiny after exclusive documents obtained by The Bohol Tribune revealed the P88-million purchase was executed without public knowledge and transparency.
The controversial transaction, finalized on December 23, 2024, involves a sprawling 29,335-square-meter property in Barangay Danao, Municipality of Panglao, Bohol.
According to the Deed of Absolute Sale obtained by The Bohol Tribune, the Provincial Government of Bohol acquired the land from Nathaniel M. Arbolente and Noel M. Arbolente, with James Carpo Yu acting as their attorney-in-fact.
The document explicitly indicates the P88,005,000 transaction was made “in favor of the Provincial Government of Bohol,” represented by Governor Aumentado.
Capitol insiders revealed that the transaction allegedly bypassed standard government procurement protocols, including mandatory appraisal from the provincial appraisal committee and completion of due diligence investigations prior to executing the deed of sale.
Questions also surround the capital gains tax obligations—estimated to exceed P5 million—with no clear documentation on which party assumed this substantial financial responsibility.
Eyebrows were raised regarding witnesses to the transaction.
Emmanuel Caberte, also known as Junin Cabagnot Caberte, served as an instrumental witness rather than the head of the Provincial Assessor’s Office, who would typically validate such high-value government land acquisitions.
Text messages obtained by investigators suggest the land was intended for a convention center development.
One message references “looking for land in Panglao as a location for a Convention Center,” while another indicates previous offers from other parties, including “Chairman Norris” who reportedly offered P60 million.
The controversial purchase also references potential connections to an airport development, with messages indicating the governor wanted land “near the vacated Tagbilaran airport” where “9 hectares of provincial government lot” are located.
Despite the mounting questions, the transaction proceeded with Atty. Seigfred C. Magallano notarizing the deed as Document No. 284, Page No. 58, Book No. X, Series of 2024.
When contacted, provincial officials declined to provide immediate comment on the P88-Million transaction.
The Governor’s Office has not issued any official statement addressing the transaction about the P88 million expenditure’s legality.