AGC successfully stages pink run
The Alturas Group of Companies (AGC)
successfully staged the pink run on Oct. 5, 2025.
AGC’s Ariel Fullido said on Oct. 14, 2025, that this latest pink run is the largest ever and the fourth edition of the run.
He told Ardy Araneta-Batoy that the run was the biggest so far, with the participant count reaching 4,511 runners.
The runners had a blast bringing home the freebies given by sponsors, and some also posted their stash on social media, he said.
Fullido said the participants seemed to have done some grocery shopping after the run.
The number of participants last year was about 3,366, he said during the interview.
He thanked the sponsors that made the race overwhelmingly successful.
Moreover, the AGC will soon turn over the proceeds of the pink run to the beneficiaries – cancer patients, he said.
AGC, in collaboration with the University of Bohol (UB), held the Strand of Love program on Oct 3, 2025, and there were at least 78 donors.
The program is meant to collect hair to create wigs for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, he said.
There was another donation drive on Oct 11, 2025, at the Island City Mall activity center, and there were 28 walk-in donors of hair that will be turned into wigs.
He said this will soon become an annual event, as the program first started in 2024.
SP okays bohol’s AIP
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) approved Bohol’s annual investment plan (AIP) on October 14, 2025.
Board Member Benjie Arcamo provided this information to Ardy Araneta-Batoy on October 15, 2025, during Newsmakers ug Uban Pa.
The AIP for 2026 outlines the provincial government’s desired projects, separate from the proposed budget for next year, which is set to be discussed soon.
Arcamo noted that the regular session started late in the afternoon due to a lengthy pre-session, showcasing the dedication of Bohol’s board members.
He emphasized that the AIP needed to be passed before tackling the proposed budget.
Arcamo couldn’t speculate which sector would receive the largest share of the budget, as the proposed budget hasn’t been presented yet.
A Contrasting Perspective on Tourism Decline
Columnist Donald Sevilla expressed skepticism over the reported global tourism decline, citing observations from his recent 10-day trip to Japan.
Speaking to Ardy Araneta-Batoy on October 16, 2025, Sevilla recounted being initially led to believe that worldwide tourism is on the decline, but his Japan experience told a different story – tourism there remains as booming as ever.
He noted that tourists in Japan are ubiquitous, reminiscent of a bustling market day, painting a stark contrast to the perceived global trend.
Sevilla observed a significant presence of Koreans, Chinese, and European tourists in Japan, juxtaposing the trickle of Korean visitors in Bohol, prompting him to ponder the reasons behind Bohol’s apparent tourism decline.
The situation led him to consider possibilities such as Japan potentially limiting visitors due to “over-tourism” or exceeding its tourism carrying capacity, yet it actively incentivizes travel through perks like free domestic travel for tourists arriving via the country’s flag carrier.
This strategy aims to distribute tourists across various parts of Japan, alleviating congestion in the capital while boosting overall tourism, he explained.
Shifting to affordability, Sevilla shared his surprise at finding Japan far more affordable than anticipated, contrary to his initial impression of it being expensive, showcasing on social media the plethora of options catering to both lavish and budget-conscious travelers.
He contrasted this with Panglao or Bohol, where he finds prices of goods and services to be astronomical, suggesting Japan’s prices may be more affordable than those in Bohol, with comparable offerings but significant price differences.
Sevilla emphasized the need to identify solutions to Bohol’s situation, stressing the importance of making Bohol attractive in terms of affordability and providing compelling reasons for tourists to visit.
He concluded that Bohol needs to offer what other destinations do but at a competitive price, urging examination of actionable steps to rectify the current state of tourism in the region.
SSS activates Calamity Loan Program for members affected by Davao Oriental earthquake
QUEZON CITY – The Social Security System (SSS) announced that, starting today, October 16, it has activated a Calamity Loan Program (CLP) for members in Davao Oriental who were affected by the two powerful earthquakes that struck the province last week.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph Montes De Claro said the CLP aims to give timely financial support to SSS members living or working in the earthquake-affected areas.
Following the declaration of a State of Calamity for all 11 cities and municipalities in Davao Oriental by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) due to the twin earthquakes, De Claro emphasized SSS’ commitment to assist its members during this difficult time.
“We at the SSS are deeply committed to supporting our members in Davao Oriental. We understand the challenges they face after the earthquake and we are here to provide timely assistance to help them recover from this calamity,” he said.
Qualified members can avail of calamity loans of up to P20,000 at a lowered interest rate of 7% per annum. Applications can be filed online through their My.SSS account and approved loans will be credited directly to the member’s enrolled bank account.
To qualify for the calamity loan, members must:
- Reside or work in an area declared under State of Calamity;
- Have at least 36 monthly contributions, with at least six posted within the last 12 months before filing. Individually paying members must have paid six contributions under their current membership type;
- Have an active My.SSS account;
- Have no past due loans or outstanding restructured loans;
- Have not been granted any final benefit;
- Be of legal age and under 65 at the time of application; and
- Have not been disqualified due to fraud against the SSS.
Employed members are reminded that their employers must be updated on SSS contributions and loan remittances to qualify.
De Claro assured the public that SSS will remain a reliable partner of Filipino workers, helping them rebuild their lives in the aftermath of disasters.
“We further remind our members about SSS’ benefit and loan programs that may be relevant to them during these difficult times. The Pension Loan Program (PLP) was also recently enhanced allowing retirement pensioners to borrow up to P300,000 and, now, survivor pensioners can also avail of the PLP and borrow up to P150,000. Thus, there is a loan facility for actively contributing members and for retirement or survivor pensioners,” De Claro added.
The earthquakes struck last October 10, with the first measuring 7.4 magnitude at 9:43 a.m. and the second with a magnitude of 6.8 at around 9:12 p.m. The epicenter was near Manay, Davao Oriental. The NDRRMC reported that over 200,000 families were affected and nearly 13,000 individuals were displaced.
The revised Calamity Loan Program guidelines, issued earlier this year, enable faster activation within seven working days of a calamity and feature a reduced interest rate of 7% per annum for members with good credit record, down from 10%. The streamlined process enables SSS to provide immediate relief to members affected by natural disasters, such as the earthquakes in Cebu and Davao Oriental. #
SSS MEDIA AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
(02) 8709-7198 local 4434
7th Floor, SSS Main Office, East Avenue
Diliman, Quezon City
Two dead after motorcycle collides with pickup truck in Panglao
A motorcycle driver and his passenger died early Thursday after their vehicle collided with a Ford Ranger pickup truck driven by a U.S. citizen on a road in Panglao Island, Bohol.
The crash occurred just after 2 a.m. on the Barangay Lourdes circumferential road, according to PSSG Arcamo of the Panglao Police Station.
The victims were identified as a 42-year-old man from Tawala, Panglao, and a 26-year-old woman from Mabini. Both died at the scene.
Investigators said the pickup truck and motorcycle were traveling in opposite directions when the pickup suddenly swerved into the motorcycle’s path. The impact threw both vehicles into a utility pole.
“When the Ford hit the motorcycle, they also hit the post — that’s why they died on the spot,” Arcamo said.
The American driver was taken to a hospital in Tagbilaran City, where he was being treated Thursday.
Arcamo said the pickup truck was traveling at high speed at the time of the crash.
Police have not confirmed witness reports that the pickup driver may have been intoxicated, Arcamo said.
The investigation continues.
Bohol Governor Calls for Unity to Sustain Tourism Growth
Governor Aris Aumentado called on tourism stakeholders to unite in building a sustainable industry for the province during a recent business forum.
Aumentado made the appeal at the Tourism Business Forum, which capped the Bohol Business Week led by the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI).
He noted that the rise of Bohol’s tourism must be sustainable, protecting the environment while ensuring long-term economic gains.
The governor pointed out the province’s recent accolade as Best Tourism Destination at the first Philippine Tourism Awards last month.
He also cited data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showing Bohol’s economy grew by 8.8 percent, the sixth-highest rate in the country.
The PSA said the growth was fueled by tourism-related activities.
In a separate statement, BCCI president Steven Lim said the business week celebration would continue in subsequent years.
Bohol Business Group Urges Action on High Prices in Tourist Areas
The Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) is urging local governments to address the high cost of goods and services in popular tourist destinations like Panglao.
The call from BCCI President Steven Araneta Lim follows recent complaints about alleged overpricing of seafood in the area.
Lim said the issue of exorbitant prices in Bohol is a recurring problem that requires immediate attention.
“I think the LGU and the stakeholders can do something and solve the problem,” Lim said.
He appealed to the Panglao local government unit (LGU) and the Panglao Island Chamber of Commerce and Industry to meet and find solutions.
He also asked businesses to offer reasonable rates to maintain the island’s appeal.
In addition to pricing, Lim said the LGU should also work to solve traffic congestion on roads leading to Panglao.
PDEA Raids Father-and-Son-Run Drug Den in Tagbilaran
A drug den operated by a father and son was raided by agents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Bohol and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Barangay Cogon, Tagbilaran City recently.
The son, identified by the alias “Rey,” was arrested during the operation.
His father, known as “Nini,” evaded capture and is currently being pursued by authorities.
Two alleged drug users were also arrested inside the residence.
Under Philippine law, operating a drug den is punishable by life imprisonment and a fine of up to P10 million pesos.
Merely visiting or using illegal drugs in such an establishment carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a P500,000-peso fine.
PDEA Bohol said the raid is part of its ongoing operations to curb the distribution and use of illegal drugs under its “Bagong PDEA para sa Bagong Pilipinas”.
‘One-Strike’ Policy for Tricycle Violations Proposed
A Tagbilaran City councilor has proposed a “one-strike” policy for tricycle drivers who violate traffic ordinances, a measure aimed at curbing recurring offenses like overcharging and refusing passengers.
Councilor Leonides Borja suggested the policy during the Sangguniang Panglungsod’s (SP) regular session last week. The discussion was prompted by City Vice Mayor Adam Jala, who asked for additional actions against persistent violations.
The issue was highlighted after Mayor Jane Yap shared a complaint on social media about an unregistered tricycle driver who haggled over the fare with a passenger. The driver was later issued a traffic citation ticket.
Under Borja’s proposal, a driver’s first offense would result in the immediate cancellation of the tricycle’s franchise.
However, the measure faced opposition. Councilor Gemma Inting called the one-strike policy unfair to franchise owners who follow regulations, arguing that drivers, not owners, are often at fault.
“It is unfair to immediately cancel the franchise as it is often not the fault of the franchise owner but the tricycle driver,” Inting said.
She suggested penalizing the registered driver instead and supported sanctions for owners who allow unregistered individuals to operate their vehicles.
Borja clarified that many tricycle drivers are law-abiding and that the City Traffic Management Office regularly conducts operations.
Other councilors offered alternative solutions.
Councilor Atty. Dodong Gonzaga proposed creating an inspection team to verify registered drivers, while Councilor Fausto Budlong suggested mandating fare meters on all tricycles to prevent overcharging.
The proposal for a one-strike policy will be considered for a future ordinance.
DILG directs LGUs to inspect structures amid recent earthquakes
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed all local government units (LGUs) to inspect the integrity of structures following the recent earthquakes in northern Cebu and the Davao region.
Earlier, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered national agencies to provide assistance to affected areas and to hasten the recovery and rehabilitation of these areas.
The DILG assured full cooperation from LGUs in ensuring public safety by maintaining structural integrity and supporting communities affected by the calamities.
On October 13, 2025, the DILG instructed LGUs to conduct swift structural assessments and evaluations, particularly for structures in severely affected barangays and buildings with visible cracks, partial collapse, or foundation damage.
Residential structures also require thorough inspection to determine the extent of damage and ensure occupant safety.
The DILG directed LGUs to evacuate affected families to temporary shelters if residential structures are deemed unsafe.
LGUs are also requested to expedite the processing of permits for rebuilding structures affected by the earthquake, ensuring compliance with national safety and engineering regulations.
Bohol mayors agree on class suspension protocol following earthquake or calamity
Bohol mayors have agreed on a protocol for class suspensions following a meeting at the Capitol on October 14, 2025.
Governor Aris Aumentado called for an emergency coordination meeting on Tuesday to establish a protocol guiding mayors on deciding whether to declare class suspensions.
The meeting established a protocol to guide mayors in deciding on class suspensions following an earthquake or any natural calamity.
The meeting was attended by Bohol mayors, as well as officials from the Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (NDRRMO), and the Capitol.
The meeting outlined guidelines for mayors and local schools on responding to calamities, providing a clear framework for decision-making.
Based on the agreement, no classes will be suspended for earthquakes measuring intensity one to four; mayors will decide on class suspensions for intensity 5 quakes based on rapid damage assessments; and all classes are automatically suspended for quakes measuring intensity 6 and above.
Phivolcs explained that the intensity of an earthquake is determined by the strength of the tremor within a specific locality.
Intensity data will be communicated through a chain of offices, with Phivolcs providing the final information on the quake’s intensity.
DepEd stated that school heads, in consultation with local government units, will decide whether to permit learners to go home following an earthquake during school hours.
DepEd will conduct an orientation for all school principals, supervisors, and disaster risk reduction and management coordinators, including private schools, to ensure compliance with the protocol.
Additionally, DepEd will issue a memorandum to all schools, while Governor Aumentado plans to issue an executive order to formalize the standard protocol and ensure coordination among all sectors.
Bohol remembers 2013 earthquake
Boholanos remembered the massive 7.2-magnitude earthquake that hit Bohol back in 2013, an event that significantly impacted lives and showcased the tenacity and resilience of the Boholano people.
The commemoration of the earthquake takes on added significance against the backdrop of recent massive earthquakes in northern Cebu and the Davao region, which were also felt in Bohol and jolted the collective memory of Boholanos about the 2013 event.
Boholanos recalled the quake that struck Bohol on October 15, 2013, as bells across the province were rung following a directive from the Capitol.
Church bells and sirens in various localities were sounded around 8:12 in the morning for 22 seconds as a way to remember the quake.
The 2013 Bohol quake had an epicenter near Sagbayan town at a depth of 12 kilometers.
According to government data, 222 persons died due to the 2013 earthquake, with eight persons missing and more than 900 injured.
What made the 2013 earthquake more challenging was the fact that the region, including Bohol, had already sustained damage from Supertyphoon Yolanda.
Approximately P340,000 worth of alleged shabu seized in Corella
Around P350,000 worth of alleged shabu was seized following a buy-bust operation in Corella town on October 11, 2025.
The Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit conducted the sting operation against a suspect identified as Jimboy Ubay, 39, a resident of Taguihon, Baclayon.
The police carried out the sting operation in Barangay Tanday after detecting the suspect allegedly engaging in illegal drug trade.
The operation was witnessed by barangay officials and media representatives.
Confiscated from the suspect were alleged shabu weighing around 50 grams, with an estimated street value of P340,000.
The stash allegedly originated from Abuyog, Leyte, and was consigned to the suspect by an unknown drug supplier.
Charges will be filed against the suspect in due course.
1 died, 1 hurt in Baclayon accident
One died and another person was injured in a traffic accident in Baclayon town on October 13, 2025, in the evening.
The victim who died was a motorcyclist who allegedly collided with a patrol car from Mabini.
The fatality was identified as Querico Omasas of Barangay Tayong, Loay, who was on his way home and allegedly figured in an accident upon reaching Barangay San Vicente, Baclayon.
Meanwhile, the backrider, identified as Jerry Dolloso, sustained serious injuries.
The incident is currently being investigated by the Baclayon police.
Phivolcs sees no strong quake to hit Bohol for several years
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) does not expect a strong earthquake to hit Bohol for several years from now.
PHIVOLCS does not expect any strong quake to hit Bohol anytime soon unless another fault within Central Visayas moves.
PHIVOLCS-Bohol chief Engr. Nolan Evangelista stated it would be ideal to have mild but frequent earthquakes rather than getting hit with a strong tremor that could cause damage or loss of life.
He said since the Bohol Bay fault moved, PHIVOLCS has yet to see a seismic event that could generate concerns for Bohol.
He added earthquakes are frequently detected at the North Bohol Fault and also the fault in the south near Loay and Anda.
He further stated the strain on the southern fault has eased as some quakes were detected in Anda and Loay.
To recall, Bohol was jolted by another strong earthquake in northern Cebu on October 14, 2025.
Northern Cebu was hit with a magnitude 6 earthquake early Monday morning.
Evangelista earlier said around 20 to 30 earthquakes hit the country each day, and the majority are only detected by seismographs.
He said it may take a lot of years before an earthquake similar to the one in 2013 hits Bohol again.
In 2013, Bohol was hit with a 7.2-magnitude earthquake causing massive damage in the province.
Classes resume after 1-day suspension
Face-to-face classes resumed on October 14, 2025, after they were suspended on Monday following the strong quake in northern Cebu that was also felt in Bohol, past 1 a.m. on October 13, 2025.
Some Bohol towns that also suspended face-to-face classes on Monday resumed regular classes on Tuesday, as it was determined that classrooms were safe to occupy.
Reports indicate that structural inspections were conducted on October 13, 2025, as part of a rapid post-earthquake assessment by the City Government of Tagbilaran.
To recall, Tagbilaran and Bohol felt the effects of the magnitude 6 earthquake that hit northern Cebu.
Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap ordered the resumption of classes following the one-day suspension to allow key city agencies to conduct assessments and inspections.
Among those who conducted the inspection were the City Engineering Office, City Planning and Development Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, and Department of Education-Bohol.
These agencies checked the structural integrity of the city’s classrooms and certified them safe for occupancy.
However, at least one classroom was deemed restricted and should not be extensively used for face-to-face classes.
Yap explained the reason behind the suspension of classes, wanting to ensure that learning spaces were safe to use following the strong earthquake that hit Bogo on Monday.
She noted that no technology is advanced enough to predict an earthquake, according to experts.
The city government immediately suspended face-to-face classes whenever there is an intensity 3 or stronger quake hitting Tagbilaran City.
She said there is a need to have time to inspect the class buildings for safety purposes, thus the need to suspend face-to-face classes for the meantime.
Capitol turns over lot for Muslim cemetery
The provincial government turned over a lot in Barangay Subayon, Bilar, on October 13, 2025, to be used as a Muslim cemetery.
The local Islamic population had long awaited a space where they could bury their dead loved ones in accordance with their rites, customs, and traditions.
Gov. Aris Aumentado led the turnover rites of the lot to be used as a Muslim cemetery.
The project was made possible through cooperation between the provincial government and Bohol Muslim Community Peace Inc.
The project is a symbolic way to show respect, acceptance, and recognition of Muslim culture and beliefs, said Aumentado.
The Muslim cemetery will provide spaces for Muslims to freely exercise their burial rites and beliefs based on Islamic practices.
The lot will also help alleviate the pain and suffering of relatives who have lost loved ones and want to bury their dead based on Islamic rites and tradition.
The project is also meant to promote peace in Bohol, as Muslims and Christians peacefully coexist, given that Muslim burial rites often differ from those of Christians.
Aumentado said the provincial government will always find ways to support all sectors of society.
Two loose firearms, alleged drugs seized in Trinidad raid
Police seized two allegedly unlicensed firearms and suspected illegal drugs worth P34,000 from a farmer’s home in Poblacion, Trinidad, Bohol, on October 13, 2025, during a raid conducted by the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-7.
The suspect, identified as alias Manny, 33, a resident of the said barangay, was targeted in the operation.
Confiscated items included a .45 caliber pistol and a .357 revolver with a magazine and two rounds of live ammunition.
The suspected illegal drugs seized weighed approximately 5.0 grams and had an estimated value of P34,000.
The raid was carried out under a search warrant issued by Judge Glen Pergamino of the Regional Trial Court in Talibon, and was witnessed by barangay officials and a local media representative.
Charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, as well as violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are pending against the suspect.
Woman stabbed to death inside her Jagna home
A woman was stabbed to death inside her own home in Barangay Bunga Ilaya, Jagna, Bohol, by an unidentified suspect on October 13, 2025.
The victim, identified as alias Nora, 57, was a resident of the said barangay.
The victim sustained stab wounds to the chest that resulted in her death.
Initial investigation revealed that a relative of the victim discovered her bloodied body, prompting immediate action.
The victim was rushed to the hospital after the discovery of the crime.
She was brought to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Police are currently conducting an investigation to determine the identity of the suspect and the motive behind the incident.
Pilmico donates farm machinery to Bohol farmers as part of corporate social responsibility
Pilmico Inc, a company under the Aboitiz Group, donated several farm machineries to Bohol farmers on Oct. 14, 2025, at the Capitol as part of its corporate social responsibility.
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) facilitated the distribution of farm machineries to beneficiary farmers’ associations in Bohol.
The donation was made under the Pilmico program called Handog sa Bohol, A Gift of Hope.
Pilmico donated 20 power sprayers, 20 disinfectant kits, 20 egg incubators, and 10 manual sprayers to 10 people’s organizations across Bohol.
Gov. Aris Aumentado thanked Pilmico for the donation, saying it will surely help improve productivity and biosecurity of Bohol’s agriculture industry.
The province is thankful for the continued support of Pilmico in the effort to improve the agriculture industry in Bohol.
Bohol Capitol allots P3 million aid to Davao Oriental
The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) has allocated P3 million as aid to Davao Oriental, which was severely hit by a massive earthquake.
Gov. Aris Aumentado is slated to ask the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) to approve the allotment of funds as aid to the impacted province.
Davao Oriental was the epicenter of the strong earthquake on Oct. 10, 2025.
If the aid is ready, Aumentado said he will task Dr. Anthony Damalerio to deliver the aid to Davao Oriental and other areas within the Davao Region in Mindanao.
To recall, Bohol gave aid to Cebu province, which was also impacted by a strong quake on Sept. 30, 2025.
Bohol gave P5 million to Cebu, which was received by Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro.
Despite the fact that the earthquakes in Cebu and Davao Oriental were felt in Bohol, no significant damage or casualties were reported in the province.
10 grams of alleged shabu seized in Talibon buy-bust operation
About 10 grams of alleged shabu were seized following a buy-bust operation in Barangay San Pedro, Talibon, on Oct. 15, 2025.
The suspect, known as alias Ron, is a native of Talibon.
The suspect is known as a street-level individual and a newly-identified drug peddler.
Seized from the suspect were four packets containing alleged shabu worth approximately P68,000.
Charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 await the suspect.
Dimiao police arrest drug suspect in buy-bust operation
The Dimiao drug enforcement team arrested a drug suspect in Barangay Balbalan on Oct. 15, 2025.
The suspect, known as alias Dodong, 26, is a resident of Barangay Luyo, Dimiao.
The suspect was arrested after engaging in a transaction with a poseur buyer.
Taken from the suspect were packets of alleged shabu weighing about 0.9 grams and valued at approximately P6,000.
Charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 await the suspect.
UAE and colonnade launch relief operation for Cebu quake victims
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Colonnade Supermarket of the Alturas Group of Companies, based in Cebu, launched a relief operation for the earthquake victims in northern Cebu.
Donna Mendez, Colonnade Supermarket manager, said that UAE Ambassador to the Philippines Mohamed Alqattam Alzaabi personally traveled to Cebu and chose Colonnade as a partner in the UAE relief operation in northern Cebu.
The UAE recognized Colonnade’s capacity to provide sufficient supplies for the relief goods to be distributed to the calamity victims.
Approximately 26,000 relief packs were distributed to calamity victims, courtesy of the UAE, and these packs were distributed in San Remegio, Tabogon, Medellin, and Daanbantayan.
Mendez said that the Tagbilaran community also helped in the repacking of goods for relief of those affected by the calamity.
Each relief pack contains 5 kilos of rice, canned goods, medical kits, noodles, blankets, and other vital items, reports said, with each pack valued at P1,500.
Mendez said the distribution of the relief packs started on Oct. 11, 2025, and will last until Oct. 21, 2025.
Tagbilaran LGU holds public presentation for 2026 budget
The local government unit (LGU) of Tagbilaran held the public presentation of the proposed budget of the city government for 2026 at the City Hall Atrium on Oct. 14 and 15, 2025.
The presentation allowed for public feedback on the city’s proposed budget.
The budget was reported to be around P1.5 billion.
Following the presentation, further steps, including review and potential adjustments by officials, would precede the budget’s final approval.
Attendees at the Tagbilaran City budget presentation included members of the Tagbilaran City People’s Council (TCPC) and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), who engaged with city officials and department heads.
City officials, department heads, and City Budget Officer Marysol Perocho were also present to present and explain the proposed budget.
City officials and department heads were there to provide information and answer questions regarding the proposed budget allocations.
The TCPC actively participated by voicing queries and suggestions, ensuring the budget reflects community priorities.
According to Perocho, the 2026 budget increased by P175 million from the 2025 budget of P1.325 billion.
The National Tax Allotment of Tagbilaran is at P835.20 million, which is bigger than the 2025 allocation of P735.44 million.
PDEA seizes P170,000 worth of alleged shabu in bool buy-bust operation
Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) seized approximately P170,000 worth of alleged shabu following a buy-bust operation in Barangay Bool on Oct. 16, 2025.
The suspect was identified as Francis Osio, 45, a former person deprived of liberty, and a resident of Poblacion Ondol, Loboc.
PDEA-Bohol agents conducted a sting operation and arrested the suspect after engaging with a poseur buyer.
The operation was witnessed by barangay officials, a representative from the Department of Justice, and a member of the media.
Taken from the suspect were packets of alleged shabu that weighed around 25 grams.
Charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 await the suspect.
PDRRMO suggests Boholano families procure go bags amid earthquake threat
Dr. Anthony Damalerio, chief of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), suggested that each Boholano family procure a Go Bag as the threat of earthquakes looms.
Several strong earthquakes have struck Visayas and Mindanao lately, and these were felt in Bohol.
Bohol is no stranger to strong earthquakes, having experienced one in 2013.
Bohol is under constant threat of a strong earthquake due to a fault located off its southern coast that may move at any time.
The public is advised to prepare, as no one can accurately predict an earthquake unlike typhoons.
For this reason, Damalerio suggested that each Boholano family procure a Go Bag in preparation for a calamity.
He said disaster risk mitigation experts suggest that a Go Bag should include supplies that will last for 72 hours from the time a calamity strikes.
He said it may include medicines, including those used for maintenance, bottled water, flashlights, knives, biscuits, canned goods, ready-to-eat foods, or similar food items.
Damalerio said that in the 3 days following a calamity, it is possible that food and water supplies will be scarce and everyone will be adding to the demand for food and water.
Moreover, it is possible that there will be no power following a calamity and water may be available only in trickles, as water refilling stations may also be closed due to lack of power.
The emergency supplies, he said, should be contained in a single bag that can be easily carried following a calamity.
He also suggested securing important documents like passports or valid IDs and other vital items that one needs to bring to an evacuation center.
It is expected that relief may arrive about 24 to 72 hours after a calamity.
He said the Go Bag enables survival while waiting for aid from the government.
He also suggested that each one have a whistle to call for rescue when one is in a precarious situation following a calamity.
2 BISU grads emerge as topnotchers in fisheries professionals’ licensure exam
Two graduates of Bohol Island State University (BISU) Candijay emerged among the top 10 topnotchers in the licensure examinations for fisheries professionals.
According to the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC), about 1,507 out of 2,165 examinees passed the examinations presided over by the Board of Fisheries in 16 testing centers on October 9 and 10, 2025.
Stephen Balos and Rhea Kris Licayan, both from BISU Candijay, obtained 10th place in the examinations with an identical rating of 88.50 percent.
The newest topnotchers from BISU only reinforces the kind of education provided by the only state university in Bohol.
In past years, BISU has been producing topnotchers in various licensure exams and has been slowly establishing itself as a source of quality education in the Visayas.
Bohol hosts forum on renewable energy in Tagbilaran City
Bohol played host to a forum on renewable energy on Oct. 14, 2025, at the Metrocentre Hotel in downtown Tagbilaran City.
It is only fitting that Bohol hosted the forum, “The Road to Renewables: Conversations on Energy Transition,” as the province has been at the forefront of renewable energy production.
The forum gathered stakeholders who discussed local implementation of initiatives in renewable energy and how to integrate the issues into development plans of local government units.
The forum was organized by the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) through the Clean, Affordable, and Secure Energy for Southeast Asia project, in cooperation with the Capitol and other local and national agencies.
Key officials from the Department of Energy were on hand during the forum and discussed developments in renewable energy under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.
Other speakers discussed renewable energy management, investment promotion, and policies.
BISU celebrates 16th founding anniversary
Bohol Island State University (BISU) celebrated its 16th Founding Anniversary, also known as Charter Day, on Oct. 14, 2025.
The commemoration is a celebration of the continued progress and development of the only state university in Bohol.
BISU has become a center of educational excellence and has been consistently producing quality graduates, with some even topping various licensure examinations.
In the past, BISU has ranked among the most admired educational institutions in Bohol.
This year’s theme was “Kadaugan: Celebrating Success-Building Legacies,” and traced the growth of the university from its humble beginnings.
BISU is the brainchild of former Cong. Edgar Chatto, as he authored the law that created the university about 16 years ago.
Meanwhile, key officials from national agencies and the province attended the event on Tuesday, including Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Myrna Mallari, BISU President Anthony Penaso, and other school officials.
Albur awaits delivery of heavy equipment for sanitary landfill operation
Albur Mayor Don Ritchie Buates said his town expects the delivery of heavy equipment soon.
The heavy equipment will be used in the operation of the Sanitary Landfill.
Buates said his local government unit realigned funds to purchase heavy equipment to be used at the landfill.
The landfill was made possible with the help of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and is operated by LGU Albur.
The LGU is also expecting pieces of heavy equipment from TIEZA.
Reports said LGU Albur was forced to realign funds, transferring the budget for town hall landscaping to the plan to purchase heavy equipment.
The need for new equipment comes following issues at the landfill.
It was last year when problems at the landfill arose, causing the closure of the facility for several weeks to allow rehabilitation.
Buates said that to justify their suggestion for an increase in the tipping fee, it is important that the equipment is sufficient for the smooth operation of the landfill.
The landfill is used by at least 18 LGUs, and these localities pay a fee to gain access and dump their residual wastes there.