New Maribojoc Mayor unveils 3-year plan
Maribojoc Mayor Jonathan “Jojo” Rojas
Newly-elected Maribojoc Mayor Jonathan “Jojo” Rojas has outlined his plans for the town over the next three years.
Rojas, who succeeded in his quest to become the new mayor of the strategic Maribojoc town, said he is carefully studying the budget and prioritizing projects that can be implemented given the allocated funds.
Rojas has lined up several projects aimed at boosting livelihood, tourism, health, education, peace and order, senior citizen welfare, and establishing a youth crisis center, among others.
Special emphasis will be given to agriculture to promote farming and livestock growing, ensuring food security and providing livelihood opportunities.
The mayor has started bringing health services to the barangays, fulfilling a campaign promise.
Personnel from the Municipal Health Office will visit the barangays, eliminating the need for residents to visit clinics in the Poblacion area.
Rojas also sees the opening of the Cortes campus of Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Multi-Specialty Medical Center as a significant development for the town.
In education, the local government unit plans to build two new high schools and procure school bus services to transport students safely.
Rojas also aims to expand scholarship programs, linking students with opportunities from other agencies and tapping affluent Maribojocanons to help fund these initiatives.
Additionally, Rojas wants to boost tourism, particularly the Punta Cruz Watchtower.
As a former kagawad of Maribojoc for nine years and a civil engineer by profession, Rojas brings valuable experience to his new role.
He was engaged in the construction business before entering politics.
Ancillary services drive July 2025 transmission rates up
Power consumers can expect higher transmission rates this July 2025, with the bulk of the increase driven by Ancillary Services (AS) rates, NGCP announced.
For the June 2025 billing period, both AS and NGCP’s transmission wheeling rates increased, but the surge in AS costs accounts for most of the adjustment.
Overall equivalent average transmission rates for the June 2025 billing period increased by 5.49% to PhP1.2113/kWh, from May’s PhP1.1482/kWh.
The increase was driven by a 9.32% increase in ancillary service rates in the June 2025 billing period. From PhP0.5655/kWh in May, AS rates increased to PhP0.6182/kWh.
AS rates pertain to the pass-through costs for power supplied by AS providers to stabilize the grid during power supply-demand imbalance. AS charges are remitted directly to generating companies with bilateral contracts with NGCP, and to the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) for the AS sourced from the Reserve Market.
The AS cost for Visayas for the June 2025 billing period includes the 6th and last tranche of the settlement of the remaining 70% AS from the Reserve Market during the March 2024 billing period whose recovery was deferred by the ERC.
NGCP does not earn from AS and does not benefit from the movement in prices.
Meanwhile, NGCP’s transmission wheeling rates slightly increased by 0.39%, from PhP0.4593/kWh in the May 2025 billing period to PhP0.4611/kWh in the June 2025 billing period.
Transmission wheeling rates are what NGCP charges for its primary service of delivering power.
“For the July 2025 electric bill of the end consumers, NGCP charges only PhP0.46/kWh for the delivery of its services,” NGCP explained, adding that AS still accounts for the bulk of transmission charges.
Subsidy Plan for Agri students unveiled in Bohol
A proposed ordinance filed by Board Member Nathaniel Binlod seeks to provide subsidies to Boholano students pursuing degree programs in agriculture and related courses.
Binlod introduced the measure during his privilege speech at Tuesday’s regular session, citing the need to entice more students to study agriculture and boost the sector.
Highlighting Bohol’s status as an agriculture-driven province, Binlod emphasized the sector’s crucial role in the local economy.
However, he noted a crisis in the industry due to declining interest among the youth. “There’s less young people who choose to become a member of the agriculture industry and work as farmers and farm for food,” Binlod said.
This trend has led to an aging farmer population, with fewer young individuals willing to replace retiring farmers.
The decline in interest has also affected the sector’s technical capacity.
Binlod believes the subsidy is a strategic investment in human resources that will yield better food security, rural development, and economic prosperity for the province.
By providing financial support to agriculture students, Binlod aims to revitalize the sector and ensure its continued contribution to Bohol’s economy.
The proposed ordinance underscores the need to address the declining interest in agriculture among the youth and promote the sector’s growth and development.
Sandugo Trade Fair spells success
DTI Prov’l Dir. Vierna Ligan
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial director Vierna Ligan unlocked the secret of the Sandugo Trade Fair as it has become leaner in terms of budget to mount a trade exposition.
She revealed this on Wednesday as she told Ardy Araneta-Batoy that unlike before when the expo needed a huge budget, now the expo is mounted with a budget solely for marketing purposes, making the budget needs of the showcase of wares much leaner.
She thanked the expo’s main partner, the Alturas Group of Companies (AGC), for hosting the event every year as a means to help up-and-coming business persons and entrepreneurs link with customers.
She said there are entrepreneurs who were turned back because the limit or capacity of the expo had been reached even before July, Ligan said.
There are 141 exhibitors participating in the expo from all over the country.
The expo started as a provincial fair in 1989 and has developed into a regional fair, she added.
Boholano exhibitors showcase products such as food and other items, as there is an ongoing partnership with Bohol Island State University on product development.
Wearables, decors, and furniture, aside from processed food, are exhibited in the expo, Ligan said.
The DTI aims to expand the network of entrepreneurs and stage these kinds of expos to help businesses grow.
Last year, Ligan said the expo raised P18 million, and DTI will not get a cut from the sales. She said the staging of the expo is part of the public service of the DTI.
Prioritize helping others over content, public urged
City Primary Care Facility (CPCF) spokesman Robin Culpa emphasized the importance of prioritizing helping others over creating content, especially in emergency situations.
Culpa made this call after undergoing basic life support training for disaster situations, organized by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Department of Health (DOH).
The training aims to equip at least one member of each family with basic life support skills, enabling immediate response in emergencies while waiting for rescue units like TaRSIER 117 or the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO).
Culpa believes this approach can save more lives and discourage people from prioritizing content creation over helping others in emergency situations.
Culpa underwent the life support and first aid training as part of his role as a health education officer with CPCF and to renew his license.
The training is part of the city’s disaster risk reduction and management health component, which also drew participation from health and disaster officials from other towns.
Culpa is expected to share his knowledge with others in the city, aiming to increase the number of people trained in basic life support.
Meanwhile, Culpa reported a 56% decline in dengue cases in Tagbilaran compared to last year, based on data up to the last week of June.
From January to June 2024, the city recorded around 136 dengue cases, whereas the same period this year saw 54 cases.
Despite the decline, Culpa emphasized that CPCF will continue to educate the public on preventing the spread of dengue.
He highlighted the importance of removing mosquitoes and seeking prompt medical attention, as well as protecting oneself from mosquito bites, to prevent the disease.
Sandugo Trade Fair Goes Lean, Eyes Expansion
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial director Vierna Ligan unlocked the secret of the Sandugo Trade Fair’s success, revealing that it has become leaner in terms of budget.
Unlike before, when the expo required a huge budget, now it’s mounted with a budget solely for marketing purposes, making the budget needs for showcasing wares much leaner.
Ligan thanked the expo’s main partner, Alturas Group of Companies (AGC), for hosting the event every year, which helps up-and-coming business persons and entrepreneurs connect with customers.
She noted that some entrepreneurs were turned back due to the expo’s limited capacity, even before July.
A total of 141 exhibitors from across the country are participating in the expo.
The Sandugo Trade Fair started as a provincial fair in 1989 and has since developed into a regional fair.
Boholano exhibitors showcase various products, including food, wearables, decors, furniture, and processed food, with an ongoing partnership with Bohol Island State University on product development.
The DTI aims to expand its network of entrepreneurs and stage more expos to help businesses grow.
Last year, the expo generated P18 million in sales, with no cut taken by DTI.
Ligan emphasized that the expo is part of DTI’s public service.
No foul play in Anda spearfishing death
Police have ruled out foul play in the death of Dolphy Urbano, whose body was found floating in the waters off barangay Candabong, Anda.
According to authorities, a resort worker reported the discovery of the dead body.
Investigation revealed that Urbano went spearfishing on June 12, 2025, and failed to return home, prompting his relatives to worry.
Unfortunately, his lifeless body was later discovered.
The municipal doctor determined the cause of death to be drowning.
Based on the evidence and testimony from Urbano’s family, police concluded that there was no foul play involved in his death.
Bohol to host Sandugo Forum on Deaf Leadership
Bohol is set to host the Sandugo Forum on Deaf Leadership from July 24 to 27, 2025, at the Ceremonial Hall of the Capitol in Tagbilaran City.
The regional forum will bring together around 60 leaders with hearing challenges, mostly from the Visayas region, for a meaningful exchange of ideas and updates on leadership.
The forum will also include workshops, as mandated by Republic Act No. 11106 or the Filipino Sign Language Law.
Organized by the Philippine Federation of the Deaf Inc. in cooperation with the Deaf Boholano Society Inc., this initiative is part of a long-standing tradition of hosting forums for people with disabilities.
The Bohol provincial government is supporting the forum, which follows last year’s event held in Bacolod City.
The forum aims to promote leadership and empowerment among the deaf community, providing a platform for them to share their experiences and ideas.
PCDO successfully stages activity with cooperatives
The Provincial Cooperative Development Office (PCDO) has successfully conducted a district-wide coordination meeting with Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)-compliant and newly-registered cooperatives from July 9 to 11, 2025.
This activity is part of the celebration of Cooperative Month this October.
The meeting covered various agendas, including preparations for the Cooperative Month celebration, seminars, and trainings to be held in the remaining months of 2025.
Discussions also focused on the 12th Conference for Cooperatives, scheduled for September 2025, as well as civil service organization registration for 2025-2028 and other concerns related to cooperative development.
The forums aimed to foster inclusive growth and development in the province by partnering with cooperatives.
Cooperatives play a significant role in the economy, boosting the income-earning power of individuals and helping create meaningful economic communities.
Through these efforts, PCDO continues to support the growth and development of cooperatives in the province, promoting economic empowerment and community development.
Jumawid praises Chatto’s legacy, vows support for Batuan development
Newly-elected Batuan Vice Mayor Antonino “Dodo” Jumawid has praised the legacy of former Governor and Congressman Edgar Chatto, citing the letter’s significant contributions to Bohol’s progress.
Jumawid, a known ally of Chatto, highlighted the former governor’s efforts in bringing big-ticket projects to Bohol, such as the Panglao airport, the multi-specialty medical center in Cortes, and several road networks.
Jumawid expressed his admiration for Chatto’s commitment to Bohol’s development and believes that he can still be useful to the province in various capacities.
Despite not being an ally of the current mayor, Mawell Tumanda, Jumawid pledged his full support to the elected official, emphasizing the importance of cooperation for the town’s growth and development.
Jumawid outlined his priorities, including the implementation of major infrastructure projects, such as the waterworks system, and focusing on health and social services.
He aims to help the indigent find suitable livelihood opportunities, particularly those living below the poverty line.
On a separate note, Jumawid expressed his concerns about the law placing Batuan in a protected area due to the presence of the Chocolate Hills.
He believes that the law is unfair and arbitrary, depriving the people of Batuan of their right to develop their town.
While supporting the protection of the Chocolate Hills, Jumawid advocates for responsible development in the plains and is seeking amendments to the Expanded National Integrated Protected Area System (ENIPAS) law.
Jumawid also chimed in on the decline in tourist arrivals, particularly from South Korea, citing the closure of whale watching activities in Bohol as one of the reasons.
He suggested that government agencies and local government units study the reasons behind the decline in tourism numbers to find solutions.
San Miguel begins planning for 2026 Budget
San Miguel Mayor Ian Mendez has announced that the local government unit has started planning its budget for 2026.
Mendez revealed this during an interview on Newsmakers ug Uban Pa, highlighting the importance of budget planning for the town’s development.
As the executive department prepares to send a budget proposal to the local Sanggunian for approval, Mendez emphasized the town’s focus on agricultural development.
San Miguel recently received an award for its best rice program implementation in Central Visayas from the Department of Agriculture (DA).
The town plans to expand its rice program implementation in the next rice planting season, combining its local rice program with the DA’s initiative.
Additionally, San Miguel is planning to build a community college and upgrade its public market.
Mendez also mentioned plans for more farm-to-market roads and tourism projects.
In politics, Mendez expressed his desire to move forward and focus on the town’s development, putting the mudslinging of the past elections behind him.
He refuses to dwell on negatives and is committed to working towards the betterment of San Miguel.
BISU ranks among World’s Top 400 innovative universities
The Bohol Island State University (BISU) has secured a spot in the top 400 list of innovative universities in the World University Ranking for Innovation (WURI) 2025 rankings.
BISU ranked 398th out of over a thousand universities worldwide that vied for a spot in the rankings, with almost 5,000 programs submitted from 87 countries.
BISU excelled in three categories, ranking among the top 100 globally.
The university ranked 55th in ethics and integrity, 58th in crisis management, and 70th in cultural values.
These rankings highlight BISU’s commitment to institutional resilience, innovative teaching methodologies, and global-standard excellence in higher education.
WURI is a respected international ranking system that evaluates universities based on real-world contributions, innovative practices, and societal impact.
The ranking emphasizes industrial application, entrepreneurial spirit, social responsibility, and global connectivity.
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has proudly announced the Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) that have earned spots in the esteemed 2025 WURI rankings, with BISU being one of them.
The 2025 WURI rankings were released on July 10, 2025.
Dagyawan brings services to Catigbian
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) brought its Dagyawan sa Barangay program to Catigbian on July 16, 2025, specifically to barangay Triple Union.
This initiative is part of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) under Executive Order No. 70, which aims for a whole-of-nation approach towards inclusive peace and order.
Led by DILG Bohol provincial director Jerome Gonzalez, the program provided various services to at least 342 households from different government agencies and the provincial government.
These services included free legal clinics, food assistance, medical check-ups, and medicines, among others.
Catigbian is the seventh town in Bohol to host the Dagyawan program, which is being supported by the local government unit under Mayor Benjie Oliva.
The community warmly welcomed the initiative.
In a separate development, two farm-to-market road projects were turned over in barangays Ambuan and Bagtic, each costing P7.5 million.
These projects aim to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the area.
Comelec-Tagbilaran gets ready for BSKE voters’ registration
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is preparing for the voters registration in relation to the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (BSKE) elections this December.
The registration is slated from Aug. 1 to 10, 2025.
Lawyer Roco Lamanolao said they just concluded the training for the new registration system and are preparing for the upcoming voters’ registration.
Lamanilao, Tagbilaran election officer, said they received the amended calendar of activities from the Central Office for the BSKE.
The registration will be from 8 am to 6 pm from Monday to Friday and will be open during the weekend and holidays.
Lamanilao said transfer of registration will not be allowed by the Comelec.
The poll body will also accept correction and reactivation of voter records.
The poll body is still preparing for BSKE even if there are moves to postpone the elections and move these to 2026.
The filing for certificates of candidacy for the BSKE will be from Oct. 1 to 7, 2025, and premature campaigning is not allowed from Oct. 1 to Nov. 19, 2025.
The election period will start from Nov. 20, 2025 to 29, 2025 and the gun ban is from Oct. 7 to Dec. 31, 2025.
Bohol board member Greg Jala receives death threat via text message
A Boholano board member, Greg Jala, has raised concerns about his personal and family’s security after receiving a death threat via text message (SMS) from an unidentified person.
The threat was revealed during the provincial board’s regular session on Tuesday.
According to Jala, the SMS was sent from an unknown number, threatening his safety and that of his family unless he releases a certain amount of money.
The board member had previously offered financial assistance to the person, but they declined to claim it personally, instead wanting to receive it via a remittance service.
Jala doubted the authenticity of the person’s needs and decided to investigate further, which allegedly irked the person and led to the threat.
Jala has informed the police about the threat and is seeking their assistance to ensure his and his family’s security.
He urged law enforcement agencies to take the matter seriously and conduct a thorough investigation.
The board member also called for a province-wide awareness campaign against all forms of cybercrime.
Councilor Gementiza seeks third term as PCL President
San Isidro Councilor Gloria Gementiza is confident of securing enough support to become the next president of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) – Bohol chapter.
Gementiza is vying for a third term as PCL president, having previously held the position from 2016 to 2019 and 2022 to 2023.
With the backing of Governor Aris Aumentado and her allies, Gementiza believes she has a strong chance of winning.
She cites the support of around 300 municipal councilors who won in the last elections and are allied with Aumentado.
Gementiza’s previous win in 2016, despite not being an ally of then Governor Edgar Chatto, also boosts her confidence.
As PCL president, the winner would become an ex-officio member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), a significant position that carries considerable weight.
While Gementiza is the frontrunner, other potential contenders include Cortes Councilor Johanna Cabalit-Initay, who is reportedly backed by a significant number of councilors.
Agriculture takes center stage: OPA to unveil 5-year plan
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) is set to present its comprehensive 5-year plan (2026-2030) to boost Bohol’s agricultural sector, as Governor Aris Aumentado gears up to accelerate development in the industry during his second term.
During his inaugural speech on June 30, 2025, Aumentado emphasized the importance of agriculture, signaling a renewed focus on the sector.
To support this initiative, the OPA has allocated P112.7 million in its 2025 work and financial plan.
The budget will fund various programs, including:
– Organic farming
– High-value crops development (rice, corn, and others)
– Fisheries resource management
– Sandugo Agri-Fair and Ubi Festival celebrations
– Soil and water laboratory services
Aumentado met with OPA officials and stakeholders to discuss and align plans for agricultural development.
He stressed the need for programs that can spur growth and development in the sector.
The OPA has already been promoting vegetable production in several towns, with notable successes in Duero, Garcia Hernandez, Guindulman, Jagna, Sierra Bullones, and Valencia.
Farmer groups have expressed support for the program, which provides essential support such as seeds, fertilizers, technical assistance, and other needs.
The provincial government’s efforts aim to improve the agriculture industry in Bohol, enhancing the lives of farmers and contributing to the province’s economic growth.
SP health panel releases recommendations to improve hospital services after Loon Incident
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s (SP) Health Committee has released a set of recommendations following the recent incident at the Cong. Natalio Castillo Memorial Hospital in Loon.
The goal is to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future and restore public trust in provincial hospitals.
The committee report, adopted and approved during Tuesday’s regular SP session led by Vice Gov. Nicanor Besas, proposes the following key recommendations:
1. Strategic reshuffling of hospital personnel: A reorganization of chiefs of hospitals and key personnel to ensure efficient, quality, and responsible medical services.
2. Comprehensive retraining and capacity building*: A program to upgrade the skills and knowledge of healthcare workers, particularly in emergency care and daily patient care.
3. Assistance to affected families: Support from the provincial government to families affected by the incident, demonstrating sympathy and accountability.
Board Member Romulo Cepedoza, chair of the SP panel on health, emphasized that the tragedy serves as a wake-up call for the health sector to improve services, accountability, and patient care, particularly for mothers and newborns.
The recommendations aim to enhance the quality of healthcare in Bohol and restore public trust in provincial hospitals.
Bohol’s Dagohoy Solar Farm starts generating clean energy
The Dagohoy Solar Power Plant in Bohol has officially started its commercial operation, marking a significant milestone in the province’s journey towards sustainable energy.
Located in San Vicente, Dagohoy, the plant is the first utility-scale power plant in Bohol and is expected to provide a cleaner and more reliable source of power for the region.
According to reports, the Dagohoy Solar Power Plant (DSPP) began commercial operations on July 17, 2025, with a peak power output of 27.1 megawatts.
Operator PetroEnergy Resources Corp., a subsidiary of the Yuchengco Group, confirmed that the project has complied with all regulatory requirements, including obtaining a provisional authority to operate from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on July 4, 2025.
The Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) also acknowledged the commercial operations of the DSPP and its inclusion in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) on July 8, 2025.
The DSPP is part of the 111.58 megawatt peak solar energy portfolio of Rizal Green Energy Corp., which has solar power projects in Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, and Isabela.
With this development, Boholanos and Filipinos in general can look forward to a more sustainable and reliable energy future.
Boholanos reunite with family as repatriation efforts succeed
Boholanos took to social media to express joy and relief as four seamen, including two from the province, were successfully repatriated after being stranded following an attack by Houthi rebels on a cargo ship in the Red Sea.
The seamen, Reinan Mantac, Jan Halen Gahum, Jundy Tanudra, and Romeo Loreto, were on board the MV Magic Seas when it was attacked on July 6, 2025.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) played a key role in facilitating their repatriation, providing cash assistance to the affected Filipinos, with additional support from the Department of Migrant Workers and Department of Social Welfare and Development.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac personally welcomed the repatriated seafarers, including the two Boholanos.
Reports confirm that the seamen are safe and already in the country.
The government has pledged to extend psychosocial support to the seafarers, who endured traumatic experiences during the attack.
The rebels’ assault on the MV Magic Seas involved rocket missiles, small arms, and sea drones, forcing the crew to abandon ship.
Fortunately, they were rescued by an Indian-crewed ship bound for Djibouti after using lifeboats to escape.
Over a dozen Filipinos from the ill-fated ship have returned home, and the government will continue to provide necessary support during their recovery.
Sandugo OTOP Trade Expo aims to promote MSMEs, Local Products
The Sandugo one-town, one-product (OTOP) trade expo officially opened on Tuesday, championing micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) and promoting local products at the ground floor of the Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City.
The expo celebrates the creativity, expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit of Filipino entrepreneurs under the OTOP program, an initiative that helps promote indigenous products by improving quality, design, packaging, and marketability, often incorporating local culture, history, and resources.
DTI-7 Acting Regional Director Esperanza Transfiguracion Melgar said the OTOP is not just a showcase of products but a tribute to the skills and entrepreneurial spirit of local entrepreneurs, who are the backbone of the economy.
Over 140 exhibitors from different provinces participated, bringing products known for their quality and design. City Administrator Alvin Acuzar, representing Mayor Jane Yap, said the OTOP represents the aims of MSMEs to improve the economy through business success, skills, and achievements, highlighting their role in inclusive growth.
Meanwhile, Gov. Aris Aumentado emphasized the unity of government and stakeholders, with the expo serving as a platform for business, innovation, and technology.
The expo will run until July 20, 2025, featuring high-quality furniture, decor, gifts, wearables, fashion accessories, processed food, and more.
This annual event is part of the Sandugo celebrations in Bohol every July.
DTI-Bohol Provincial Director Vierna Ligan hopes the expo will hit its sales target, driven by increasing interest in local products and the shopping frenzy of balikbayans, exporters, and tourism industry stakeholders, aiming to provide more exposure to MSMEs and attract customers from other regions and abroad.
Man nabbed in Dampas buy-bust Operation
A significant seizure of alleged shabu worth approximately P374,000 was made in a buy-bust operation conducted by the Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) in Dampas on July 11, 2025.
The operation targeted Christian Alvarando, 23, of Barangay Poblacion, Dauis, who was allegedly engaged in illegal drug operations.
The arrest was carried out by the Tagbilaran drug enforcement team under the supervision of Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober.
The sting operation, witnessed by barangay officials and the media, involved a poseur buyer who purchased P12,000 worth of alleged shabu from the suspect.
A total of 35 grams of alleged shabu were seized from Alvarando.
The suspect now faces charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
BPIA issues public advisory on pick-up, drop-off of passengers
A public advisory was posted by a page on social media purported to represent the Bohol Panglao International Airport (BPIA).
On July 12, 2025, the said page on social media posted that a rule will be implemented at the airport “to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhance security” at the BPIA.
The post mentioned that a three-minute time limit will be given to those who will drop-off or pick-up passengers at the airport.
The advisory said pick-up and drop-off of passengers are allowed for a time limit at “designated zones”.
The advisory is silent about where the designated zones are as mentioned in the advisory.
Moreover, the advisory is silent about the fees charged to those who engage in drop-off or pick-up activities at the airport.
“Let’s work together to keep the airport safe, efficient, and accessible for everyone,” the advisory concluded.
To recall, concerns were raised about the policy of disallowing the pick-up and drop-off of passengers near the check-in area at the airport, which has been the practice before Aboitiz Infracapital (AIC) took over the management of the airport last month.
In a related development, a dyTR report on Monday said an interaction with an AIC official was made on July 12, 2025.
The report mentioned that the station was able to get in touch with an airport official, Ronnie Lumibao and he denied any knowledge of complaints about the new airport policy as they are not actively scanning social media posts.
Moreover, there was no official report containing such complaints.
Lumibao said there was no advisory and limiting the drop-off and pick-up activity is “standard”.
Complaints swirled about confusion on the policies including the purported P50 parking fee charged to those who will park at the airport.
The issue is that allegedly those who will be picking up or dropping off passengers are no longer allowed to engage in such activity near the passenger terminal and the passengers need to walk from the terminal to the parking lot, which is a few meters away.
The need to walk several meters after arriving or if passengers are about to depart may cause inconvenience especially for senior cltizens and also for persons with disability, observers say.
Boholano Boxer Magsayo set to shine in Pacquiao-Barrios undercard
Boholano boxer Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo will be fighting in the undercard of the highly-anticipated match between Mario Barrios and Manny Pacquiao on Sunday morning, July 20, 2025 (in the Philippines), at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Magsayo, a native of Tagbilaran City, boasts a record of 27 wins, two losses, and 18 wins via knockouts.
He will face Jorge Mata Cuellar, who holds a record of 21 wins, 2 losses, and 13 wins via knockouts, in a junior lightweight bout.
A former World Boxing Council (WBC) world featherweight champion, Magsayo started his boxing career at 17.
Sources say he’s responding well to training after moving up in weight class.
Magsayo is ready to trade punches with Cuellar, known for his aggressive style from Mexico, who is riding a five-bout winning streak after losing to Jose Luis Vazquez Hernandez in 2023.
Magsayo hopes to win in his new division and continue his campaign to become a world champion once again.
Ubay Town experiences flash floods
Huge floods affected Ubay town on Tuesday, particularly in barangay Poblacion.
Heavy rains resulted in knee-high floods in the unelevated portion of the barangay, affecting areas including the Ubay Central Elementary School.
The intense weather was accompanied by lightning strikes and strong winds. It took three hours for the floodwaters to subside.
Several families were forced to evacuate to safer grounds, but they were able to return home after a day. The recent flooding has brought back memories of the devastating effects of Typhoon Odette nearly four years ago, which left families homeless.
Reports suggest that clogged drainages, possibly filled with trash, may have contributed to the flooding, which occurred after about an hour of heavy rain.
Talibon Dog Pound deaths spark probe, action
Animal-loving observers raised concerns following reports of deaths among the impounded animals at the Talibon dog pound, prompting authorities to investigate possible lapses by those in charge.
Some employees from the local government unit (LGU), which operates and manages the pound, may have committed these lapses.
Talibon Mayor Janet Garcia swiftly launched an investigation after Bohol Animal Rescue and Kindness (BARK) sounded the alarm over the reported deaths.
The probe revealed that two employees assigned to the impounding area allegedly committed the lapses, leading to the deaths of some dogs.
Garcia decided to fire the employees responsible, stating that the dog pound had been idle for a long time before being reactivated after a recent incident involving a stray dog biting a student.
Observers noted that the facility lacked sufficient resources to support humane treatment, with the area being filled with rubbish.
The Animal Welfare Act prohibits inhumane treatment of animals, and charges may be filed against those responsible for the lapses.
Garcia vowed that such incidents would not recur in the future.
TCPS denies release of Bool murder suspects
The Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) has clarified that it has not officially released the names of suspects in the recent Bool murder case.
This comes after names of suspects circulated on social media, sparking confusion.
To recall, a middle-aged man was brutally assassinated in broad daylight by two suspects in Barangay Bool last month.
Notably, the victim was accompanied by his infant grandchild at the time of the incident, but fortunately, the child remained unharmed.
TCPS Chief Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober stated that the names circulating on social media did not originate from their office.
Some social media posts alleged that the suspects in the murder of a man from Cebu province had already been identified.
However, Escober explained that the TCPS cannot release the suspects’ names until a case is filed in court.
Escober expressed concerns over the social media postings, citing that they may potentially disrupt their ongoing investigation into the incident, where two unidentified individuals gunned down a middle-aged man in broad daylight.
Capitol, BWUI Eye Refund of Excess Payments Next Year
The provincial government and Bohol Water Utilities Inc. (BWUI) are targeting to refund excess payments to qualified consumers of the former Provincial Public Utilities Department (PPUD) by next year.
This development follows Gov. Aris Aumentado’s executive order on his first day of second term, directing the Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) to return excess payments made by PPUD consumers from 1997 to 2000.
The Court had ordered the provincial government to refund excess payments made to PPUD after a prolonged legal battle.
BWUI’s Victor Tambis stated that his firm was included in the case as the successor to PPUD, clarifying that the issue predated BWUI’s takeover of water concession operations.
The refund process will be initiated by the PTO in cooperation with BWUI.
Tambis noted that BWUI is awaiting guidelines from the PTO, as the Capitol possesses the database of consumers who paid PPUD from 1997 to 2000.
The issue originated from a case filed by former Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan Lim against former Gov. Rene Relampagos regarding excess payments charged to water bills.
After nearly two decades, the provincial government, led by Aumentado, has decided to comply with the court order and forego further legal action.
Drug Suspects fall in police’s hands
Two drug suspects were apprehended by police in Ubay following a successful buy-bust operation in Barangay Poblacion, Ubay, on Monday.
The suspects were identified as Reynald Padilla, 23, alias Tukmol, a native of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, who was temporarily residing in Barangay Fatima, Ubay, and Rio Lungay, 23, also of Barangay Fatima.
Both individuals were classified as street-level dealers and were allegedly involved in the drug trade.
Confiscated from their possession were five packets containing suspected shabu, estimated to weigh two grams and valued at P13,600.
The suspects are facing charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Quirog cites supply chain issues behind fish prices
Agriculturist Liza Quirog
The province’s top agriculture official blamed competing buyers and supply chain disruptions for volatile fish prices that have made seafood increasingly unaffordable for Bohol residents.
Provincial Agriculturist Liza Quirog said external buyers with cold storage facilities and insufficient local fishermen loyalty to provincial markets drive price fluctuations that hurt consumers.
“The law of supply and demand” governs pricing, but outside competition exacerbates the problem, Quirog told dyTR.
Fisherfolks often sell to higher-paying buyers from other provinces rather than prioritizing Bohol’s consumption needs.
The comments come as fish prices have surged nationwide.
A fishermen’s group reported in September that galunggong, tilapia and bangus cost at least 30 pesos more per kilogram than typical prices.
Bohol, with 1.4 million people, depends heavily on fishing and aquaculture.
The province’s extensive coastline supports thousands of fishing families, but residents increasingly struggle to afford local catch.
Quirog outlined a five-year strategic plan for agriculture and fisheries developed with the Provincial Veterinarian’s office to address sector woes.
However, budget constraints have hampered efforts.
The agriculture office has seen declining funding over three years due to “absorptive capacity” limitations and procurement issues that leave money unspent, Quirog said.
Personnel issues compound the problems.
Some technically qualified workers face contract non-renewals, requiring costly retraining of replacements, she added.
Gov. Aris Aumentado has pledged to prioritize agriculture and fisheries during his second term starting 2025.
Aumentado “is keen to pour more funding into these sectors, particularly in fisheries, where high prices have made fish less affordable for Boholanos,” Quirog said.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources monitors fish prices nationwide, though recent data shows continued volatility across major markets.
TESDA-Bilar earns prestigious 2-Star award for excellence in cookery NC II program
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s National Board of Judges has released results of the System for TVET Accreditation and Recognition Program. The awarding ceremony was held July 8, 2025 at Hilton Manila in Pasay City.
The STAR Program recognizes Technical-Vocational Education and Training programs that have surpassed TESDA’s minimum program delivery requirements. It evaluates program implementation and aligns success indicators with the East Asia Summit TVET Quality Assurance Framework, setting a benchmark for quality assurance in TVET delivery.
This year, 34 training institutions nationwide received STAR Awards for their commitment to excellence and innovation in technical-vocational education.
Only three institutions earned the 2-star award — among them the TESDA Provincial Training Center-Bilar in Bilar, Bohol, for its Cookery NC II program. The remaining institutions received 1-star recognition.
TESDA Bohol Provincial Director Carlito F. Quintano and Provincial Training Center-Bilar Center Administrator Rochelle R. Delos Reyes received the award on behalf of the institution during the ceremony.
The achievement reflects PTC-Bilar’s commitment to quality in implementing its TVET programs, demonstrating adherence to standards above the threshold of Competency-Based Training program delivery and performance indicators.
The 2-star award reflects the center’s pursuit of excellence and its role in setting standards for quality technical education in Bohol and across the nation.