City councilor attends CRDA workshop for comprehensive land use plan
City Councilor Nerio “Butchie” Zamora II recently attended a workshop on climate risk disaster assessment (CRDA) as part of the crafting of the comprehensive land use plan (CLUP).
He mentioned this during Monday’s Newsmakers ug Uban Pa interview done by Ardy Araneta-Batoy, highlighting the workshop’s critical role in the CLUP upgrade process.
The CLUP is a long-term policy document that guides the future development of a community by allocating its land resources to different sectors and functions in a rational and equitable manner.
As mandated by law, local government units are required to prepare the CLUP to address competing land use demands, promote sustainable development, and achieve the community’s vision for the future.
During the workshop, specific barangays vulnerable to floods and climate change were identified and considered in the planning process.
Zamora noted that flooding has become a pressing issue, especially with the admitted corruption in some flood control projects by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
The CLUP will also identify potential areas in Tagbilaran City to become pocket forests and open areas, among others.
Zamora emphasized the importance of this planning process in ensuring the city’s sustainable development.
In a separate note, Zamora paid tribute to Archbishop Alberto Uy, the former Bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran, for his advocacy on environmental protection and sustainable management.
Uy was an active participant in environmental issues, including discussions on the unsolicited proposal to reclaim parts of Tagbilaran Bay.
Meanwhile, revisions to the environmental code are currently underway, being done in tandem with the upgrading of the CLUP, according to Zamora.
DPWH starts repair of Borja bridge after recent quake
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has initiated repairs on a portion of the Borja bridge, which connects Panglao Island to mainland Bohol via Dauis, following the recent earthquake that hit central Philippines on September 30, 2025.
According to First District Engineer John Paul Gascon, the repairs began immediately after the tremor.
The Borja bridge, located near the Bool-Dauis junction, will undergo repairs for a couple of months before completion.
During this period, one lane will be closed to traffic to ensure motorists’ safety.
Light vehicles will be allowed to pass through the bridge momentarily, while heavy vehicles are restricted.
Gascon assured that the earthquake did not cause any significant damage to bridges or roads in the first, second, and third engineering districts of Bohol.
The swift response to repair the damaged bridge is part of the DPWH’s efforts to restore infrastructure and ensure public safety.
Edited and approved
Two Catigbian schools sustain damage in recent quake
Two public schools in Catigbian, Bohol, have sustained damage following the recent earthquake.
According to reports on October 1, 2025, damage was detected in Catigbian National High School and Haguilanan Elementary School.
Classes resumed a day after they were suspended following the earthquake on September 30, 2025.
Dr. Fe Luarez, Department of Education (DepEd)-Bohol division superintendent, said classes were suspended for only a day in Bohol for safety reasons.
Luarez added that classes would resume in classrooms that have been cleared by the municipal engineer.
Minor damages were also observed in other schools in Catigbian.
Despite sustaining some damage, the mentioned schools were able to conduct classes as not all classrooms were affected.
Luarez has instructed a thorough inspection of all school buildings to ensure safety as classes continue with their schedules.
In a related note, the Department of Education (DepEd) is facing a significant challenge in repairing schools damaged by natural disasters. According to recent reports, the DepEd needs at least P18 billion to repair schools damaged by recent calamities, including the recent earthquake that affected over 9,000 schools and required P1.4 billion for the repair of 451 classrooms destroyed and 706 damaged classrooms.
Over P81,000 worth of alleged shabu, firearm seized in Tagbilaran buy-bust
The Tagbilaran City Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a successful buy-bust operation in Barangay Taloto on September 27, 2025, resulting in the seizure of over P81,000 worth of alleged shabu and a firearm from a suspect.
The suspect, identified as Reynaldo Guadaquevel Jr., 27, of Barangay San Jose, Talibon, and temporarily residing in Barangay Manga, was arrested after transacting with a poseur buyer.
The operation, witnessed by barangay officials and the media, led to the confiscation of packets of alleged shabu weighing approximately 12 grams, a firearm, and two rounds of ammunition.
Charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and illegal possession of a firearm are pending against the suspect.
Bohol police stations sustain minor damage in recent quake
About five police stations in Bohol reported minor cracks following the powerful earthquake that hit Cebu on September 30, 2025, which was also felt in Bohol.
Col. Patricio Degay Jr., provincial director of the Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO), was informed of the police stations’ status during an emergency meeting on October 1, 2025, at Camp Dagohoy.
The police stations that sustained minor damage are located in Carmen, Trinidad, Dimiao, Getafe, and Garcia Hernandez.
Despite the minor cracks, Degay assured that these stations are still safe to occupy.
He downplayed concerns, emphasizing that the structures remain habitable despite the damage from the significant quake.
Engineer Arrested in Tagbilaran on Forestry Code Violation
A 43-year-old engineer facing criminal charges was arrested Wednesday morning at his residence in Lindaville Subdivision Phase 2, Barangay San Isidro, Tagbilaran City.
Authorities identified the suspect as Mark Anthony Mosqueda y Aparece, a married private employee and native of Purok 6, Barangay Hunan, Buenavista, Bohol, who was temporarily residing in Tagbilaran.
The arrest was carried out at approximately 11:50 a.m. by the Tagbilaran City Police Station’s Tracker Team, led by Police Lt. Col. John Kareen Oliveros-Escober, the city police chief.
The operation was based on a warrant issued Sept. 5, 2025, by Acting Presiding Judge Panfilo Intud Sala Jr. of Regional Trial Court Branch 51 in Carmen, Bohol.
Mosqueda is charged with violating Section 77 of Presidential Decree No. 705, also known as the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines.
The court set bail at P40,000 pesos for his provisional release.
Balicasag Island Sees Decline in Diving, Snorkeling Activity, Instructor Says
Diving and snorkeling activities on Balicasag Island in Panglao are declining, according to diving instructor Edgar Baylon.
Baylon’s observations align with reports from key tourism stakeholders in Panglao, who have noted a rapid slowdown in tourism activity in the area.
Baylon said August is typically a lean month for tourism, with fewer arrivals.
However, he expects activity to rebound by October, based on past trends.
He noted that post-lockdown periods saw a surge in “revenge tourism” as travelers returned following months of restrictions.
Despite the current decline, Taiwanese, European, and Korean tourists continue to visit Bohol for diving and snorkeling.
PACC Investigates 2 Flood Control Projects in Bohol Following Suspensions
The Philippine Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) said Monday it will begin monitoring two Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects in Bohol that were suspended for lacking required environmental permits.
The commission will oversee the P2.5 billion-peso Loboc River project and a P96.3 million-peso project in Trinidad, located in Bohol’s third and second congressional districts, respectively.
The Loboc River project was halted after it failed to obtain an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), along with other necessary clearances from the Environmental Management Bureau, the Protected Area Management Board and the Loboc local government unit. The project site is within a protected area.
The PACC is questioning why the DPWH began construction without legal clearances, calling it a potential blunder by the department’s design and planning office.
In a separate case, the Trinidad project in Barangay Hinlayagan was also suspended after construction began on March 13.
The PACC said this project also lacked an ECC from the DENR, calling the oversight a lapse by the DPWH.
As a result, the PACC said it will pursue actions to demand accountability, including a full technical and environmental audit of the projects.
The commission may ask the National Bureau of Investigation to probe possible anomalies and misuse of funds, and to release the contracts, scope of work and project details. It may also request a special audit by the Commission on Audit on all Bohol flood control projects from 2022 to 2025.
The PACC advocates for filing appropriate charges if probable cause of corruption is found, which could include freezing the assets of suspects.
Virgin Island in Panglao to Reopen Next Month
The Virgin Island in Panglao is set to reopen to tourists next month, Gov. Aris Aumentado said Friday.
The destination was closed about a year ago after tourists vandalized corals in the Estaca snorkeling area.
The final reopening depends on approval from the regional director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
New regulations will allow only accredited Department of Tourism operators and guides to conduct diving and snorkeling, with priority given to local guides.
A booking system will also limit the number of daily visitors.
Approximately 100 local guides and operators have completed required training and accreditation for the site.
The Virgin Islands are a small sandbar islet near Panglao, known for its white sand and clear waters.
Bohol police report decline in crime rate
The Bohol Provincial Police Office (BPPO) has reported a decline in crimes for the period from January 1, 2025, to September 19, 2025.
According to the data presented during the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting on September 23, 2025, crimes decreased by 218 cases or 4.27 percent compared to the same period in 2024.
The number of crime incidents dropped from 5,108 in 2024 to 4,890 this year.
The decline resulted in a reduction in the public safety indicator, with a lower figure of 8.54 percent, from 2,917 to 2,668 cases.
However, the peace and order indicator slightly increased by 1.41 percent, from 2,191 to 2,222 cases.
Index crimes decreased by 33.33 percent, from 525 cases to 350 cases, while non-index crimes increased from 1,666 cases to 1,872 cases.
Among the focus crimes, theft cases showed the biggest decline, with a 56 percent drop, followed by physical injuries, which dropped by 27 percent.
Robbery and rape cases also saw declining figures, with 5 percent and 13 percent, respectively.
Vehicle theft, known as motornapping, declined by 41 percent.
However, murder increased by 8 percent, and homicide increased by 43 percent.
Vehicle theft, known as carnapping or automobile theft, had one case compared to zero last year.
BPPO, led by newly-appointed Provincial Director Col. Patricio Degay Jr., assured the public that the police will focus on ensuring public safety and maintaining peace and order in Bohol.
Chocolate hills entrance fee hike plan deferred
The plan to increase the entrance fee to the Chocolate Hills complex in Carmen has been deferred, according to reports on September 29, 2025.
This decision comes as the local government unit (LGU) and provincial agencies are set to hold a dialogue.
In a letter dated September 25, 2025, Carmen Mayor Conchita de los Reyes informed Governor Aris Aumentado that the LGU has decided to defer the implementation of the entrance fee increase, which was scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2025.
The LGU is mandated to increase the fees under the revenue code passed a couple of years ago.
A joint review and market assessment will be conducted, involving the Carmen LGU, Provincial Tourism Office, Provincial Tourism Council, and other stakeholders, to discuss the right timing for the implementation of the fee increase.
The review will also include representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) to ensure that the project implementation adheres to guidelines.
The plans for the Chocolate Hills complex include upgrading facilities and amenities, as well as interventions to improve the tourist experience.
Mayor de los Reyes emphasized that the LGU is committed to constantly improving the complex, which has become a showcase for Bohol tourism, as the province maintains its status as a premier tourism destination.
2 killed in motorcycle collision in Sierra Bullones
A motorcycle collision in Sierra Bullones on September 27, 2025, claimed the lives of two individuals.
The incident occurred when Ramelito Lua, a motorcycle driver from Barangay Danicop, Sierra Bullones, collided with another motorcycle driven by Ricardo Gun-an, 57, who is Lua’s relative.
The collision happened in Barangay Matin-ao, Sierra Bullones.
Both Lua and Gun-an were rushed to the hospital but unfortunately succumbed due to their injuries.
The two victims were pronounced dead at the hospital.
Bohol police seize over P8m worth of illegal drugs in a week
The Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) reported that over P8 million worth of illegal drugs were seized in various operations conducted by the Bohol police from September 22 to September 28, 2025.
According to the report, the police carried out 32 anti-drug operations during this period, resulting in the arrest of 34 drug suspects who are now facing charges.
The seized drugs were valued at P8,449,932 and weighed approximately 1.249 kilograms.
Col. Patricio Degay Jr., the newly-appointed director of the Bohol police, assured the public that they will intensify their efforts to curb the illegal drug trade in Bohol.
In addition to anti-drug operations, the police also conducted eight anti-illegal gambling operations, arresting nine suspects and confiscating P1,022 in alleged bet money.
Furthermore, 11 anti-loose firearm operations were conducted, resulting in the confiscation of 12 firearms and the arrest of four individuals for possession of firearms without licenses.
3 arrested, 4 escape in loon anti-drug operation
A buy-bust operation conducted by the Loon drug enforcement team on September 30, 2025, resulted in the arrest of three individuals and the escape of four others.
The operation was carried out at a house allegedly used as a drug den in Barangay Cogon Sur, Loon, owned by Joel Guadalquever, 27.
The arrested individuals include Guadalquever, Ruben Balonga, 53, of Barangay Napo, Loon, and Michael James Tapia, 24, of Barangay Canghangdon Oriental, Loon.
The escaped suspects were identified as alias Robin and alias Bong, both residents of Barangay Napo, and two other minors.
During the operation, the police confiscated packets containing alleged shabu weighing approximately 7.5 grams, valued at P51,000.
Charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 will be filed against the suspects.
The operation was led by Capt. Thomas Zen Cheung of the Loon police.
Panglao councilor denies using LGU personnel, resources for personal activities
Panglao Councilor Analyn Casane has denied allegations that she used local government unit (LGU) personnel and resources for her personal activities, specifically when distributing donations to senior citizens, persons with disability, and solo parents.
Casane claimed that she donated her salary to these groups and was accused of using LGU resources and personnel, which she denied.
Acting Mayor Daisy Delambaca had previously addressed Casane during the Sangguniang Bayan privilege hour on September 29, 2025, asking her not to use LGU resources and personnel for personal activities.
Delambaca clarified that she was not blocking Casane’s charitable initiative but rather reacting to allegations circulating on social media.
Casane maintained that she did not use any LGU personnel or resources, stating that she utilized her personal vehicle for her advocacy programs.
The controversy has led observers to note that the political group aligned with the administration appears to have disintegrated, given the apparent rift between Delambaca and Casane, who are members of the same ticket that ran under Mayor Boy Arcay in the May elections.
The issue comes amid another controversy involving Casane and Councilor Aya Montero-Caindec, who opposed a resolution allowing Arcay to negotiate the purchase of three lots for a new Panglao town hall.
The two councilors cited conflict of interest, since one of the lots under consideration is reportedly owned by the family of Councilor Albert Bompat.
Bompat has since stated that it is up to Mayor Arcay to decide whether to proceed with the deal.
Talagsa denies being berated by Rep. Aumentado
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) second district engineer Fernando Talagsa denied allegations that he was at the receiving end where he was berated by Rep. Maria Vanessa Aumentado.
Talagas’s denial comes as a reaction to a post of influencer Willie Ramasola,
Ramasola claims that Rep Aumentado allegedly complained issues in relation to the solar light project.
Talagsa said what Ramasola posted was fake news that Talagsa was berated by Rep. Aumentado.
Talagsa said the Inabanga issue is an old one and Talagsa cannot recall any instance where Rep. Aumentado complained.
Ramasola has been hot on the trails of the Aumentados and has become a foe after being a friend for several years.
DA hands modern machinery to Bohol farmers to boost rice production
The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (Philmech) have handed over modern agricultural machinery to Bohol farmers.
According to a report on September 30, 2025, the machinery is expected to greatly benefit farmers in the province.
A total of 45 units of modern machinery were distributed to farmers’ groups and cooperatives in Bohol.
The ceremonial turnover took place on September 25, 2025, in Barangay San Jose, Talibon, and was attended by national and local government officials, farmers’ group representatives, and members of beneficiary groups.
Around 34 farmers’ cooperatives and associations from 16 towns received modern machinery worth over P101 million.
The machinery distribution is part of the 2025 Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) mechanization program, a national initiative aimed at enhancing local rice production.
The program seeks to reduce the cost of rice production by P2 to P3 per kilo and minimize post-harvest losses by up to 5%, while also easing manual labor in rice production.
By providing modern machinery, the program aims to increase efficiency and productivity in the agricultural sector.
Bohol sends aid and financial assistance to quake-stricken cebu
The Provincial Capitol of Bohol has decided to extend assistance to earthquake-stricken Cebu by deploying rescue and medical teams and providing P5 million in financial aid.
According to Governor Aris Aumentado, in a statement on October 1, 2025, the aid aims to provide immediate relief and assistance to those affected by the earthquake.
Cebu is considered one of the most damaged provinces since the earthquake’s epicenter was near Bogo City in northern Cebu province.
The Capitol’s rescue and medical teams, composed of responders from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), Telephone and Radio System Integrated Emergency Response (TaRSIER), police personnel, and medical responders from the Department of Health (DOH)-Bohol, were deployed to Cebu on Wednesday.
In addition to the provincial government’s efforts, the Philippine Coast Guard in Bohol deployed a disaster response group to Cebu to assist in rescue and relief efforts.
The group consisted of around 16 personnel from Western and Eastern Bohol, who boarded BRP Sindangan en route to Cebu, bringing aid and food packs.
Aumentado also extended his condolences to the families of the fatalities, with reports indicating that the death toll had reached over 60 as of October 2, 2025.
Meanwhile, Bohol has returned to normal operations after a day of class and government work suspension.
It’s worth noting that other areas in Cebu, like Daanbantayan town, are still in need of assistance, with survivors sleeping in open fields and relying on limited aid.
The local government is working to provide necessary support, but logistical challenges and limited resources remain a concern.
US-based Boholano lawyer favors death penalty for corrupt officials
US-based Boholano lawyer Glen Hubahib has expressed his opinion that the death penalty should be imposed for graft and corruption convictions.
During an Open Forum on September 29, 2025, Hubahib stated that it would be ideal to execute corrupt officials and their cohorts convicted of graft and corruption.
He hopes that someone will be convicted and held accountable for graft.
Hubahib noted that even when capital punishment was allowed, the death penalty was rarely imposed.
He suggested that passing a bill into law to allow the death penalty for corrupt officials and their cohorts would be a good start.
He cited an example from China, where a former government official was convicted of receiving bribes and sentenced to death, although the penalty is under reprieve.
The case in China involves a massive corruption scandal related to substandard flood control projects, allegedly done to provide kickbacks to corrupt officials.
Hubahib’s opinion highlights the need for stringent measures to combat corruption.
Airport fee hike not unique to Bohol, says Gov Aumenatado
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado has clarified that the increase in airport terminal fees is not a phenomenon unique to Bohol, as similar fees are also increasing in other parts of the country.
The fee hike is based on directives from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
As of September 14, 2025, a P350 terminal fee has been imposed on passengers using the Bohol Panglao International Airport (BPIA), with similar increases in other international airports nationwide.
Governor Aumentado made the statement to inform the public that the Provincial Government has no hand in the fee hike at the BPIA.
Aumentado assured Boholanos that the provincial government will work to maintain the local tourism industry’s prominent status.
Recently, the governor led a trade mission to Japan to support tourism business and collaborate with the Department of Tourism (DOT).
The mission aims to bolster Bohol’s tourism industry, which has become a primary economic driver for the province.
Tagbilaran market chief denies overpricing allegations
The City Economic Enterprise Office (CEEO) chief, Thea Paras, has denied allegations of overpricing in Tagbilaran City’s public markets.
This comes after Mayor Jane Yap called for an investigation into the claims.
Paras stated that while overpricing is not prevalent, some vendors have failed to display price tags on certain products.
According to reports, vendors who failed to display price tags have been issued notices of violation.
Paras assured that her office has been monitoring prices in the markets even before the allegations surfaced.
She added that some vendors were caught not clearly displaying product information and price tags, which is necessary to inform customers about the items and their corresponding prices.
Mayor Yap emphasized that there is no room for abusive individuals who engage in price manipulation.
She warned that those found guilty of such practices would have their rights to sell in the public markets revoked.
Paras reiterated that her office is closely monitoring the situation to prevent any instances of overpricing.
Meanwhile, Mayor Yap clarified that inspection fees are indeed imposed on products sold in the public markets.
However, she noted that the market rates have not been updated in nearly 30 years, necessitating a reform in the fee collection and market operations to align with current times.
As previously reported, a market code was passed by the city council in 2023, which included an upgrade in inspection fees effective October 1, 2025.
Councilor Fausto Budlong emphasized that the new matrix on inspection fees should not lead to significant price increases in the public markets.