Balilihan Mayor Atty. Trisha Veloso-Chatto said she supports increased drug busts in the town, noting they indicate law enforcers are committed to eliminating the drug problem.
She cited a recent buy-bust operation where alleged shabu worth over one million pesos was seized as a positive sign.
The mayor also lauded the new chief of police, Lt. Mark Jucel Reburiano, for his work in arresting drug personalities.
Reburiano, 26, a graduate of the Philippine National Police Academy Class of 2022 and a native of Bicol, replaced Capt. Thomas Zen Cheung, who is now assigned in Loon.
Chatto said she would be happy if Balilihan became known as a town where drug busts happen.
SUMAD FESTIVAL
The town is celebrating its foundation day, known as Sumad, every September 29, 2025.
The public holiday was established by Republic Act No. 9706, authored by former Congressman Atty. Edgar M. Chatto.
Mayor Chatto said the town celebrates the event with activities meant to capture the essence of the foundation day, which is to appreciate the history, culture and traditions of Balilihan.
A series of activities began on September 19, 2025, with a bamboo planting activity and clean-up drive.
A fun run was held on September 21, followed by the launch of a food bazaar behind the municipal hall, which will run until September 29.
A medical mission featuring 11 doctors provided free medical consultation, medicines, and laboratory examinations, part of the town’s push to make healthcare more accessible.
GOVERNANCE
Mayor Chatto said she leads with the help of local government officials and personnel, emphasizing that governance is not a one-person job.
She said everything is a shared effort and that she seeks advice from her father, former Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto.