Cebu Pacific launches A330neo aircraft for Bohol routes
Cebu Pacific has launched the use of its A330neo aircraft, a larger plane, for flights to Bohol, enhancing connectivity to the island province and providing residents with more travel opportunities.
The airline inaugurated A330neo flights to Bohol-Panglao International Airport on November 16, 2025, offering improved services and comfort to passengers.
The 459-seat aircraft will operate daily between Manila and Bohol, catering to more Filipinos and international travelers visiting the island’s natural attractions and wildlife.
A water canon salute greeted the maiden A330neo flight, marking a new chapter for Cebu Pacific’s operations in Bohol.
Dignitaries who attended the ceremony at the airport included Gov. Erico Aumentado, Retired Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briguez, Maria Cecilia Natividad, Terence Delomoney, Joanne Pinat, and Insp. Eulalio Gementiza.
Cebu Pacific is the largest operator of A330neo aircraft in the Asia-Pacific, with 13 planes in its fleet, and currently operates flights to several domestic and international destinations.
The A330neo’s efficiency and range enable the airline to serve key routes with flexibility and cost-effectiveness, supporting its commitment to comfort, capacity, and sustainability.
The aircraft’s latest-generation technology burns up to 25 percent less fuel per flight and produces less noise, reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly travel.
Calape police arrest drug suspect in buy-bust operation
The Calape drug enforcement team, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Bohol, arrested a suspected drug peddler in a buy-bust operation conducted in Barangay Tultugan on November 14, 2025.
The suspect, identified as alias Opaw, 31, is a resident of Barangay Canumucad, Loon.
A poseur buyer reportedly purchased alleged shabu worth P500 from the suspect, leading to his arrest.
Confiscated from the suspect were packets of alleged shabu weighing approximately three grams, with an estimated value of P20,400.
The suspect now faces charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Lila, Bohol, to donate P1 million to Cebu flood victims
The small town of Lila in Bohol is planning to donate P1 million in cash aid to support the rehabilitation efforts in flood-stricken areas of Cebu.
The donation will go to Liloan, a town in northern Cebu severely affected by the floods caused by typhoon Tino.
The Sangguniang Bayan of Lila, led by Vice Mayor Regina Salazar, has passed a resolution authorizing the allocation of the funds, as requested by Lila Mayor Arturo “Jed” Piollo II.
Mayor Piollo acknowledged that Lila is not a wealthy town, but it wants to share its resources with those in need.
In a separate development, Gov. Aris Aumentado personally handed over cash assistance from the Provincial Government of Bohol to affected areas in Cebu on November 14, 2025.
The governor turned over donations collected through a donation drive initiated by the Capitol, with recipients including Talisay City, Consolacion, Danao City, Liloan, and Compostela, each receiving P1 million.
The turnover ceremony was held at the Cebu provincial capitol, with Cebu provincial administrator Ace Durano receiving the aid on behalf of Gov. Pamela Baricuatro.
No leptospirosis cases reported in Tagbilaran City, says CHO
The City Health Office (CHO) has not recorded any cases of leptospirosis in Tagbilaran City despite the risks posed by recent typhoons.
According to CHO spokesperson Robin Culpa, the city has remained leptospirosis-free for the past six months, including the period when typhoons Tino and Uwan brought heavy rains earlier this month.
No hospital admissions related to the disease have been reported in Tagbilaran City.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through the urine of infected animals, often through contaminated water or soil.
Symptoms include sudden fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, and in severe cases, organ failure.
The CHO’s report highlights the city’s efforts to monitor and prevent the spread of the disease.
Suspected drug duo arrested in Tagbilaran City buy-bust operation
Two suspected drug peddlers were arrested on November 14, 2025, following a buy-bust operation in Tagbilaran City.
The duo was allegedly collaborating to sell illicit substances when they were apprehended by the Tagbilaran Drug Enforcement Team at Barangay Bool.
The suspects were identified as Carlo Galinato, 29, a resident of Barangay Poblacion 2, and Rica Mae Namocatcat, 29, of Barangay Poblacion 3.
The poseur buyer successfully purchased alleged shabu from the suspects worth P500, leading to their arrest after the substance was handed over.
The operation was witnessed by local barangay officials and media representatives.
Confiscated from the suspects were packets of alleged shabu weighing five grams, with an estimated value of P34,000.
Charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 have been filed against the suspects.
Talagsa clarifies: 2nd district didn’t receive budget from P100B insertions
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 2nd engineering district engineer Fernando Talagsa stated on Nov. 19, 2025, that no town in the second district of Bohol received any budget from the alleged P100 billion insertions into the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
This clarification comes following the revelation of former Ako Bikol party-list representative Elizaldy Co, who released a series of videos on social media platform Facebook, alleging corruption involving President Marcos Jr. and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Talagsa made the statement when he was reached for comment, saying he meticulously scanned the list released by Co and consulted the liaison for projects assigned to his district engineering office.
According to Talagsa, the district did not receive allocations for flood control projects this year, as the budget for these projects was provided in the 2024 GAA.
SP approves new ordinance to strengthen ASF control
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) approved a new ordinance on African Swine Fever (ASF) on Nov. 18, 2025, effectively lifting the total ban on pork and pork products entering Bohol.
Dubbed as the Bohol ASF policy strengthening ordinance of 2025, the measure allows the regulated entry of pork and pork products from other areas in the country, including swine genetic materials.
The ordinance was passed on its second reading during Tuesday’s regular session, led by Vice Gov. Nicanor Besas.
The Provincial ASF interagency task force suggested the new measure to allow the movement of pork and pork products under the guidelines of the Department of Agriculture and to comply with requirements.
The proposed ordinance regulates the entry of live hogs, pork products, frozen swine semen, and related products into Bohol.
Livestock carriers may enter without special permits, except for the transfer of products from an ASF-infected zone within Bohol.
Stricter documentary requirements are imposed, and fake documents may result in penalties, including a P5,000 fine per violation and confiscation of products.
Imprisonment may also be imposed on violators.
The measure is up for its third and final reading in the next session of the provincial board.
Once the ordinance becomes effective, 15 days following publication in a newspaper of general circulation, implementing rules and regulations will be drafted.
Boholanos react to Imee’s explosive claim on BBM’s alleged drug use
Boholanos expressed mixed reactions to Sen. Imee Marcos’s revelation about her brother, President Marcos Jr.’s alleged involvement with drugs.
Sen. Marcos made the expose during the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) rally on Nov. 17, 2025, at the Quirino Grandstand, stating that the situation is serious since the family learned about President Marcos Jr.’s alleged drug use.
She also alleged that the First Lady is also a suspected drug user.
The expose has sparked a wave of reactions from Boholanos, with some showing support and asking to pray for the president, while others are questioning the timing and motivation behind Imee’s statement.
Some are linking the senator’s claim to former President Duterte’s previous statement calling Marcos Jr. “bangag” or a drug user.
Others are demanding that the president undergo a hair follicle test to verify the allegations, while some are wondering why Imee supported her brother’s presidential bid despite knowing about his alleged drug use.
Malacañang has dismissed the allegations, calling them baseless and without merit.
LGU Panglao to hold tourism summit
The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Panglao will be holding a tourism summit on Nov. 28, 2025, at the Panglao Cultural Center.
Among the objectives of the summit is to address the heated issue on overpriced goods and services offered by some tourism industry players, especially during peak season.
The LGU is inviting all tourism stakeholders, including the management of resorts, hotels, restaurants, and other tourism establishments.
The summit is expected to come up with policies and actions to prevent overpricing of products and services offered to tourists, thereby protecting Panglao’s reputation as a world-renowned tourist destination.
The summit will also provide a platform for tighter cooperation between the government and stakeholders for the sustainable and equitable development of tourism in the town.
Panglao and nearby Dauis, both located in Panglao Island, are areas experiencing tourism growth in Bohol.
These areas host various tourism facilities catering to tourists, with Panglao having a more advanced tourism industry due to its numerous attractions, including beaches and dive sites.
Key travel websites have named Panglao as an emerging travel destination in the country.
P102K of alleged shabu seized in Tagbilaran buy bust
Around P102,000 of alleged shabu were seized in a buy bust operation in Tagbilaran on Nov. 19, 2025, in barangay Dao.
The Tagbilaran drug enforcement unit arrested Reynante Tongco, 49, alias Inan, from Tubigon.
The police conducted an anti-illegal drugs operation and detected the suspect allegedly engaged in drug trade.
The suspect was arrested after engaging with a poseur buyer.
The said operation was witnessed by barangay officials and the media.
Taken from the suspect were alleged shabu weighing 15 grams and valued at P102,000.
Charges of violation of the Comprehensive Drugs Act of 2002 await the suspect.
Over P609K in alleged shabu seized in Bohol within a week
Around P609,000 of alleged shabu were seized by Bohol police within a week, according to reports.
The police also arrested 17 persons following a series of anti-illegal drug operations.
The police seized 89.59 grams in 16 coordinated anti-drug operations that were conducted.
The period spanned from Nov. 10 to 16, 2025.
Moreover, in the campaign against loose firearms, the police said 11 loose firearms were confiscated with four operations conducted with one suspect arrested due to alleged illegal possession of firearms.
This is being done to reduce gun-related violence and to ensure public safety.
The most wanted persons were arrested as six operations were conducted against illegal gambling operations resulting to around 12 persons arrested and P1,200 in bet money was seized.
SP okays ordinance telling LGUs to create own drainage system
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) approved on Nov. 18, 2025, the ordinance mandating local government units (LGU) to develop their own drainage system and development management plan.
The measure aims to reduce the problem of flooding.
The measure was approved on third and final reading during Tuesday’s regular session.
The measure was sponsored by Board Member Greg Jala and co-sponsored by Board Members Tomas Abapo and Nathaniel Binlod.
The measure will ensure each LGU will have a clear and systematic plan in managing their own drainage system.
This is solving the recurring problem of flooding in flood-prone areas and also those considered as low-lying areas especially when there is incessant rain or storm.
The measure mandates LGU to study and assess the current state of their drainage system and to develop a comprehensive development plan based on urban growth and climate change protection.
The measure mandated implementation of infrastructure projects that aim for the improvement, expansion, and rehabilitation of drainage networks.
There should be mitigation networks to prevent effects of flooding and similar calamities.
This may result in a better resiliency against natural calamities and towards better urban planning and disaster preparedness in Bohol.
Batuan pushes for remedies to get fair shake with the law
Batuan Vice Mayor Antonino “Dodo” Jumawid announced on Nov. 20, 2025, that the local government unit (LGU) will push for remedies to get a fair shake with the law.
This move stems from the fact that a huge portion of the town is classified under a protected area and under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Area System (ENIPAS) law.
Some establishments are required to secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), which is a challenge to obtain and takes a lot of time and resources.
This is not only true for Batuan but also for neighboring towns such as Sagbayan, Carmen, and Bilar.
The law has made it difficult for some enterprises to operate in these areas.
In fact, more than a hundred establishments in Batuan alone were issued a notice of violation by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and face closure.
Fortunately, the plan to close violators has been put on hold for now.
According to Jumawid, the plan is to first challenge the constitutionality of the ENIPAS law and to ask lawmakers to amend the law.
The goal is to give those whose livelihood is in these areas a fair shake.
Lawyers are currently building a case to be filed before the court questioning the constitutionality of the ENIPAS law.
Initially, the mayor is supposed to coordinate with the Provincial Legal Office (PLO) to represent the people who are questioning the law.
However, if the PLO declines to represent those who wish to challenge the law’s constitutionality, then the petitioners will have to find private lawyers to represent them in court.
The procedure requires a certification from government lawyers that they decline to handle the case for the petitioners.
After that, the petitioners may now resort to hiring private legal counsel.
A government official who is a lawyer is not allowed to file a case against the government or when the government is one of the adverse parties of a case.
Jumawid said that the charges to be filed will include other government agencies like the DENR, preventing them from implementing the law.
There is a question whether such law is aligned with the constitution or just.
The court decision will provide answers regarding the implementation of the provisions of the ENIPAS.
Jumawid explained that there was an arbitrary classification as protected areas of flat lands or private lands.
He said that there should be an update regarding the plan within the next couple of months.
Right now, the LGU is negotiating with the PLO and private legal counsels.
Those affected have remained as they have nowhere else to go, Jumawid said.
It is possible that those affected will be relocated and will be given just compensation for their lands.
If the government thinks there is no need to get the lands, then the area should no longer be declared as protected.
It is clear under the law, he said, that protected lots cannot be privately owned and should be controlled by the government.
Their usual economic activity was disturbed when the DENR just appeared and told those affected that the area is protected.
On the issue of municipal waters, Jumawid gave his opinion on who has authority over them.
Even though Batuan is landlocked, he still shared his thoughts.
The local residents and stakeholders are the ones living in the community and they are the most affected and know the situation fully.
There is also a principle of local autonomy as the local government code provides the relevant provisions.
Ordinance filed to protect Tagbilaran’s hills
A proposed ordinance was filed at the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Tagbilaran on Nov. 18, 2025, aiming to declare two hills in Tagbilaran as urban biodiversity development areas (UBDA).
The hills in question are Banat-i in barangay Bool and Elly in barangay Manga.
The declaration of UBDA is intended to responsibly develop the over 37 hectares of land spanning Bool, Manga, and Tiptip.
The measure was filed during the SP regular session on Tuesday, presided over by Vice Mayor Adam Jala.
Under the proposed ordinance, there will be a 70 percent green cover, preservation of natural topography, and a ban on quarry and excavation activities in the UBDA, including activities that could disrupt the natural drainage.
Moreover, there will be a no-build zone within 20 meters from steep slopes of the hills.
The measure will allow the building of low-impact facilities such as nature trails or view decks, and all projects should undergo Environmental Impact Assessment or Initial Environmental Examination.
There will be a ban on logging activities, land modifications, waste disposal in the area, or building without UBDA development clearance.
Violators will face fines of at least P5,000.
Furthermore, a council for environmental protection will be established to manage the UBDA.
City councilor Nerio Zamora III is the author of the proposed ordinance, which has been referred to the Committee on City Planning and Public Lands.
The proposed ordinance was an offshoot of the suggestion of Mayor Jane Yap, following concerns that incidents that happened in Cebu after Typhoon Tino may also occur in Tagbilaran City.
One of the projects that caught attention is the Regional Cultural Hub being built at Banat-i Hill in barangay Bool.
Ubay Mayor Demands Justice for Slain Barangay Kagawad
Ubay Mayor Violeta Reyes ordered a thorough police investigation into the killing of San Pascual Barangay Kagawad Jojo Inalam, who was shot dead by a lone gunman on November 18, 2025, in Barangay Bulilis.
Reyes wants to provide Inalam’s family with justice for his murder.
Inalam was riding his motorcycle when the incident happened.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred early Tuesday morning.
It appeared that the suspect waited for the victim to pass by and ambushed him as he stopped on his path.
Inalam was reportedly a close ally of Governor Aris Aumentado, according to a neighbor.
However, the victim’s wife claimed she had no information about any grudge or conflict involving her husband. She is now calling for justice.
Aumentado denies banning Christmas Parties in barangays
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado denied reports that he had issued a directive banning Christmas parties among barangay officials.
The provincial government has decided to skip its own Christmas party this year, similar to the decision made by Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap.
Mayor Yap chose to forego the celebration due to the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino in some areas of Central Visayas.
However, Aumentado stated that he cannot stop barangay officials from holding their own Christmas parties. As long as the budget for such parties does not come from the barangay’s funds, he does not object to the celebrations.
Aumentado acknowledged that Christmas parties are a long-standing tradition and something people look forward to every year.
He advised the public to celebrate Christmas modestly and to keep the celebrations simple and meaningful.
Resort Manager exposes social media promo scam
Rommel Gonzalez, the manager of Modala Resort in Panglao, exposed a discounted room promo circulating on social media as a scam.
Modala Resort is located in Barangay Doljo, Panglao.
Gonzalez stated that the resort is not offering any discounts, contrary to the reports on social media claiming such discounts are up to 50 percent.
Bohol Beach Club also denied the reports of discounted room rates.
According to Riam Bonanza, there is no need to offer discounts as tourists are now flocking back to Bohol.
During the pandemic, some resorts offered discounts, but currently, there are none.
Even during the lean season, resorts like Modala and Bohol Beach Club did not offer any discounts.
Jin Air Flight arrives in Bohol, boosts Tourism hopes
On the evening of November 18, 2025, a Jin Air flight arrived at the Bohol Panglao International Airport (BPIA) carrying several Korean tourists from South Korea.
Jin Air is the budget brand of Korean Air, the country’s flag carrier.
According to Elvieh Sarmiento, a local tourism operator, Korean tourists are among the top visitors in the country and in Bohol.
She noted that they often travel in groups, similar to Chinese tourists, who usually visit with family or friends.
Sarmiento also reported that six international flights are now scheduled daily at BPIA, including flights from Air Busan, Philippine Airlines, Jeju Air, Air Seoul, and Jin Air.
The increased number of flights from abroad is expected to bring more tourists to Bohol, particularly from South Korea and other international destinations.
DepEd Undersecretary Olaivar resigns amid corruption allegations
Boholano Education Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar filed his resignation on November 18, 2025, according to the Department of Education’s (DepEd) media officer, Dennis Legaspi.
Olaivar’s resignation comes amid corruption allegations.
He was named as one of the officials allegedly involved in receiving kickbacks from contractors of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
The allegations were made by former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo.
However, Olaivar has denied all involvement and has opened himself up for an investigation.
Olaivar’s resignation follows the acceptance of the voluntary resignations of Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on November 17, 2025.
The two officials resigned out of “delicadeza” after their respective agencies were linked to alleged anomalous flood-control projects in the country.
Mayor Piollo hopes whale shark watching reopens soon
Lila mayor Arturo “Jed” Piollo on Nov. 17, 2025 expressed hope that the provincial government will soon reopen the whale shark watching activity in Bohol.
He gave his two cents worth during his guest appearance on Newsmakers ug Uban Pa on Monday.
He said, currently, there is nothing cast in stone as far as the reopening of the whale watching activity is concerned.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan is in the midst of amending the ordinance on marine animal interactions.
To recall, early this year, Gov. Aris Aumentado ordered the closure of the whale shark activities in Lila, Albur and Dauis citing violations of a provincial ordinance related to animal feeding at sea.
He expects the provincial government will soon make a decision on the future of the whale shark activity that has become a source of livelihood for people of Lila.
Piollo said his is fighting for the time the attraction will return and reopen to accept tourists.
He added the attraction can help shore up the town’s financial situation and provide livelihood to some of Lila’s residents.
He cited the impact of whale shark watching to the local economy as tourism attraction will bound to bring more tourists to Bohol.
He explained he traded barbs with an environmentalist recently due to issues concerning the authority over municipal waters and the authority of local government units (LGU).
This happened during a hearing of the provincial board related to the amendments to the ordinance governing marine life interactions.
He said the environmentalist was asserting that the province has jurisdiction over municipal waters. He told the person that the local government unit has jurisdiction over municipal waters as defined under the Local Government Code, which is the bible of local government officials.
He said the environmentalist insisted that the LGU should bow down to what the province thinks what is right and said the jurisdiction over municipal waters is reserved to the LGU.
The provincial board called the hearing as it is on the process of amending the law on marine life interactions, Piollo said.
The proposed amending ordinance is authored by Board Member Lucille Lagunay and the proposed ordinance is seen as the key to the reopening of the whale shark interaction as it lists the guidelines for the conduct of the activity in Bohol.
He contends that the province has no jurisdiction over municipal waters and the provincial ordinance should not exit in the first place as the provincial government has no jurisdiction over the municipal waters.
Piollo said the provincial board’s move is beneficial as it may help improve the processes in the conduct of the interaction with the whale sharks.
Over P416,000 Worth of Alleged Shabu Seized in Buenavista
The municipal drug enforcement team of Buenavista seized more than P416,000 worth of alleged shabu in separate anti-illegal drugs operations on November 16, 2025.
In the first operation, which took place in Barangay Asinan, a high-value individual was arrested.
The suspect was identified as alias Chiboy, 30, from Barangay Eastern Cabul-an.
The police seized packets of alleged shabu weighing 51.25 grams, valued at P348,500, as well as a caliber .45 pistol and three rounds of live ammunition from the suspect.
He faces charges of violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and illegal possession of firearms.
Meanwhile, the second operation took place in Barangay Sweetland, where a 35-year-old suspect, identified as alias Tonyo from Barangay Eastern Cabul-an, was arrested.
The police seized packets containing a substance believed to be shabu, weighing 10 grams and worth P68,000, from the suspect.
Charges of violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act are being filed against the suspect.
Pilar Police Arrest Vendor in Buy-Bust Operation
Elements of the Pilar drug enforcement team arrested a vendor following a buy-bust operation in Barangay del Pilar on November 16, 2025.
The suspect was identified as Alvin Baguion, 42, a resident of Barangay del Pilar, Pilar town. He hails from Leyte.
The police seized packets of alleged shabu worth P1,700 from the suspect.
The arrest was made after the suspect engaged with a poseur buyer.
Charges of violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act are being filed against the suspect.
Ex-Party List Rep doubts mass actions will lead to People Power Revolt
A former party-list representative, Angelo Palmones, expressed his doubts that the ongoing mass actions in the country will lead to a people power revolt.
As a radio personality, Palmones stated that he sees no indication that the mass action led by the religious group Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) would be enough to spark a revolt similar to those in 1986 or 2000, which ousted President Marcos Sr. and President Estrada, respectively.
The INC group held a mass action at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park for two days, which was initially supposed to last until November 18 but was cut short and ended on November 17.
According to INC spokesperson Edwil Zabala, the group achieved its goal of sending a message calling for justice, accountability, transparency, and peace ahead of schedule.
He also noted that the participants were exhausted after two days of protesting.
The two-day event was a call for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds, as the country is currently embroiled in a corruption scandal involving alleged substandard or ghost flood control projects.
However, the INC is not calling for President Marcos Jr. to step down by resigning from his post.
Palmones pointed out that the interests of the groups instigating mass actions are different, with some not calling for the president’s resignation while others want him ousted.
He believes that the lack of a unifying force behind those who are doing the mass actions makes a revolt highly unlikely.
Additionally, some groups do not want Vice President Sara Duterte to replace Marcos Jr.
Interior Secretary Junvic Remulla reported that the first day of the protest was generally peaceful and was attended by at least 650,000 people at the grandstand.
Bohol records over 800 HIV-AIDS cases
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) revealed on November 17, 2025, that more than 800 persons in Bohol have been documented to have been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which leads to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
This was disclosed by PHO officer-in-charge Dr. Fruserma May Uy during the budget hearing for the 2026 provincial government budget.
The data highlights the rising incidents of cases in Bohol, causing great alarm among members of the healthcare sector.
HIV can be contracted primarily through contact with certain body fluids of an infected person, such as through unprotected sex or sharing needles.
Symptoms of HIV can include a flu-like illness soon after infection, a long period with no symptoms, or later-stage symptoms such as fevers, fatigue, and severe opportunistic infections as the immune system weakens.
However, with effective treatment, people can live long, healthy lives and avoid progressing to AIDS.
According to Uy, around 100 cases were logged by the PHO this year, an increase from the previous year, indicating that the rate of transmission of the virus is faster now than before.
The new cases are prevalent among young people and those who are considered high-risk.
Uy emphasized the need for a more robust program in preventive healthcare to stop or slow down the rate of HIV transmission.
As cases rise, Uy urged the public to safeguard their health and ensure they are protected against the virus.
Barangay Kagawad Shot Dead in Ubay
A barangay kagawad of San Pascual, Ubay, was shot dead by unidentified suspects on November 18, 2025.
The victim was positively identified by residents in the area as Jojo Inalem.
The police are currently investigating the incident to determine the motive and suspects behind the killing.
According to reports, the victim was shot while on board a motorcycle.
Upon reaching the road to Barangay Bulilis, the victim was met by the suspects, who opened fire and hit the barangay kagawad with their bullets.
VAWC suspect from Bohol nabbed in Cebu City
A suspect accused of committing violence against women and their children (VAWC) was arrested in Cebu City by Dauis police on Nov. 18, 2025.
The suspect was known as alias Noel, 26, from Sagbayan and was temporarily residing in Lahug, Cebu City.
The arrest warrant was issued by the Regional Trial Court branch 3 based in Tagbilaran City.
The suspect was arrested by Dauis police and elements of Mabolo police station.
The bail was set at P72,000 for his provisional liberty.
The suspect is currently under the custody of the police.
DepEd denies report of K to 12 cancellation
The Department of Education (DepEd) denied reports that there are plans to cancel the K to 12 program by school year 2026 to 2027.
The DepEd said that the post circulating on social media about the cancellation is baseless.
The allegation is that the Grade 11 and 12 will no longer be offered in the next full school year.
In an official statement, it said that there is no truth to the post circulating on social media in relation to the removal of Grade 11 and 12.
There is no directive that orders the removal of the said grade levels and ends the implementation of the K to 12 program by June 2026.
Allegedly, there were schools that already started removing Grade 11 and 12 based on an order that was debunked by the DepEd.
DepEd calls on the public to guard against fake news and misinformation circulating online.
The public is enjoined to only get information from official online platforms of the DepEd.
It also says to get information from verified sources as disinformation may cause confusion for parents and learners waiting for the right directives for the upcoming school year.
TCPS considers Antmart robbery case solved
The Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) considers the burglary at Ant Mart in CPG Avenue as solved.
Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober, chief of the TCPS, said they already identified the suspects behind the burglary.
As of the moment, they are still gathering more pieces of evidence before filing robbery cases against the suspects.
The suspects are from Luzon and carted away P800,000 in cash from Antmart.
Escober refused to name the suspects so as not to jeopardize their investigation.
The suspects are known burglars in Manila, Baguio, and Cebu and other places in the country and already faced robbery cases before.
The suspects are allegedly members of Termites Gang and their modus operandi is to gain access via the back entrance of establishments.
Escober said the suspects have already fled Bohol after they escaped on Nov. 5, 2025, by traveling to Bato, Leyte via Ubay.
Based on CCTV footage, the suspects fled via a rented Toyota Innova owned by a person in Baguio.
Escober said the police will ensure the suspects will be arrested soon.
Tagbilaran LGU plans to launch carless Sundays
The local government unit (LGU) of Tagbilaran is planning to launch carless Sundays as a way to make the weekend more enjoyable.
In her Facebook post, Mayor Jane Yap said that aside from making everything safe, she wants to make the people enjoy the streets and to provide alternative amusement especially to the youth embroiled on things like their gadgets and also social media.
She wants to give families opportunities for quality time to have ways to bond and enjoy communal amusement together with the community.
She also wants more opportunities for people to do physical activities during carless Sundays.
More people can engage in exercise and sports without fear of getting run over by cars.
The LGU is studying how to close the roads to traffic and will be crafted into an ordinance and to also listen to the sentiments of the people about the idea.
Fisherman rescued after being flung off boat in Bien Unido
A fisherman was flung off his boat that he was on board floating off the waters of Bilangbilangan, Bien Unido.
The fisherman was rescued following the unfortunate incident.
The victim was identified as Bartolome Saldua, 41, of Bilangbilangan Island, Bien Unido.
The victim and his partner were planning on Nov. 17, 2025, to get some sea urchin.
The boat they were riding all of a sudden stalled and one thing happened that caused the victim to be flung off the boat and go overboard.
The partner saw the victim already floating and she asked for help to rescue the victim.
The victim was rescued and brought to a hospital in Talibon and eventually referred to a hospital in Tagbilaran City.
PEO repairs damaged road in Valencia, Bohol
The Provincial Engineering Office (PEO) is currently repairing the damaged road in barangay Anonang, Valencia.
The said road was damaged due to the fissures and landslides caused by the rains brought by typhoon Tino.
Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado mobilized a team from the PEO and heavy equipment to fix the said damaged road.
They are working on a temporary fix on the said road in order to let traffic flow at the soonest time possible as it is a path towards Bilar, Carmen, and Dimiao.
Residents hope the road will be repaired at the soonest possible time.
About 1,000 people regularly use the said road towards other towns in Bohol every day.
Anonang is among the areas where landslides occurred due to incessant rains brought by the typhoon.
Bohol Light reminds public about risks of illegal electrical connections
Sheryl Paga, spokesperson for Bohol Light, issued a reminder to the public on the perils or risks of using illegal electrical connections.
She made the statement on Nov. 19, 2025, during her guest appearance on Newsmakers ug Uban Pa.
She also reminded consumers of the proper energy consumption by conserving energy wisely for the convenience and safety of those who use electricity.
According to Republic Act No. 7832, people who engage in illegal connections may face penalties including those who tamper with connections or those using tempered with electrical meters.
Moreover, the law penalizes those using gadgets that may interfere with the proper registration or measurement of power consumption by tampering with the electric meter.
Such moves may end up lowering the registered power consumption and may not reflect the actual power consumption, she explained.
Violators of the said piece of legislation may face penalties that could reach P20,000 plus computation on the differential billing, which is the payment of power actually consumed within the period when the illegal connection took place until the time it was discovered.
Bohol Light said that using illegal connections have effects to consumers as this may contribute to the inflation of system loss.
The cost of system loss is passed on to all consumers of a distribution utility as prescribed by law.
In this view, Bohol Light asks the public to report any suspected illegal connections for further action.
One may call the 24/7 hotline at 038 427 2372 or 0920 960 2372 and there is reward to those who are able to report suspicious activity leading to prosecution of illegal electrical connection, which is tantamount to stealing power.
BWUI reminds consumers to take note of bill due date
Victor Tambis, the spokesperson for Bohol Water Utilities Inc. (BWUI), said on Nov. 19, 2025, that the company reminds consumers to take note of the due date indicated on the water bill.
He said this during his appearance on the Wednesday edition of Newsmakers ug Uban Pa.
He said following the due date may lead to the avoidance of inconvenience of having the service disconnected.
In this view, BWUI reminds consumers to settle bills on or before the due date to avoid problems and inconvenience.
BWUI will deliver copies of the water bill to every consumer’s homes four to five days after the meter reading.
The delay is to allow BWUI to double-check the accuracy of the charges reflected in the bill, he explained.
There is a need to ensure that the bill reflects the right amount as recorded in the billing system.
Tambis said that if bills are settled after the due date, surcharges will be levied to the tune of 2 percent per month.
A bill that remained unsettled within two months, BWUI will be issued a notice of disconnection and will be disconnected from the water system until the bill is settled promptly.
The water connection will be disconnected within the month where it is due for disconnection.
To avoid inconvenience and surcharges, especially when a consumer gets disconnected, consumers are urged to settle their obligations and ensure their accounts are updated by settling the bill before the due date.
Consumers who were disconnected but have yet to settle the due amount, are reminded by BWUI to settle the bill to avoid additional surcharges if there is a plan for reconnection.
Arcamo shares insights on municipal waters jurisdiction
Board member Benjie Arcamo gave his insights on who has the jurisdiction over municipal waters on Nov. 19, 2025.
In his guest appearance on Open Forum, he said he was not privy to the discussion on municipal waters but just the same gave his opinion.
He said that municipal waters are within the jurisdiction of the individual towns as part of its territory.
The discussion on municipal waters came about during a recent committee hearing for the amendments on the ordinance regulating marine life interactions.
In the said hearing, Lila mayor Arturo “Jed” Piollo II traded barbs with a Tagbilaran Baywatch member as they argued over who has the jurisdiction over the municipal waters.
Arcamo said the waters where the whale shark watching was being engaged before, are part of the territory of Lila.
Board member Lucille Lagunay filed a proposed ordinance seeking to amend an ordinance concerning marine life interactions wherein feeding of marine life is disallowed and this was the main reason among others why the whale shark activity in Bohol was ordered closed by virtue of an executive order issued by Gov. Aris Aumentado.
The measure is still with the committee and discussions on the matter will start when there is a committee report presented to the plenary and such may lead to the second reading of the proposed ordinance.
He said the ordinance passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is province-wide and affects all towns with a coastline or municipal waters.
Arcamo said that there is a huge chance the whale watching activity will return as long as the operation is aligned with the law and regulations.
He said there is a small percentage that the closure of the whale shark watching has affected the tourism industry here.
He added that the downturn in tourism is not observed in Bohol alone as the same downturn is also observed elsewhere in the country and the world.
He said we must accept the fact that the tourism industry experiences lean seasons and the downturn is exacerbated by economic downturns in other places like in South Korea where most of the tourists to Bohol come from.
Trash eyed as reason for Tagbilaran City flooding
Trash was eyed as the reason for the flooding that happened in Tagbilaran City on Nov. 19, 2025, following a torrential rainfall.
This comes as the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said there is no storm that has entered the Philippine area of responsibility.
Reports said flooding occurred in some homes in the city.
Drainage systems were clogged and the rainfall was too much for the drainage to handle, causing floods to rise quickly.
Trash was seen as the cause of the clogged drainage, making it difficult for the water to drain fast enough.
This was the observation of the City Engineering Office (CEO) during its inspection in some areas in Tagbilaran following the heavy rainfall on Wednesday.
CEO chief Engr. Ted Estoque said the city government is not the only one responsible for waste disposal, but the people should also do their part in managing waste and proper disposal.
Among the flooded areas are Tamblot Street, Lamdagan Street, Gallares Street near Lite Port, Bohol Wisdom School, and Development Bank of the Philippines area, J Borja corner CPG Avenue, Calceta, and parts of Ubujan.
Mayor Jane Yap apologized to motorists who were inconvenienced by the flooding and ordered the CEO to check facilities in critical areas, as the city government had conducted a cleanup of drainage a couple of weeks before the onset of typhoon Tino.
Suspect behind barangay kagawad killing arrested
The police have arrested the suspect behind the killing of a San Pascual, Ubay barangay kagawad.
The police arrested the suspect following a hot pursuit operation and netted the suspect behind the killing of barangay kagawad Jojo Inalem that happened on Nov. 19, 2025.
Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) provincial director Col. Patricio Degay Jr. said that the suspect was arrested with the help of eyewitnesses and the CCTV footage near the crime scene.
Ubay police chief Capt. Amelito Melloria identified the suspect as a certain Teody Tampor, a fighting cock handler, of barangay Pag-asa, Ubay.
The suspect was arrested on the evening of Nov. 18, 2025, in barangay Pag-asa.
The victim was shot dead and sustained at least four gunshot wounds that caused his death.
The victim was shot at barangay Bulilis on Tuesday allegedly while purchasing some fuel, but the suspect was apparently waiting in ambush and opened fire when he had the opportunity to kill the victim.
The police were unable to recover the firearm used in the killing, and based on the investigation, the firearm used in the killing may be a short firearm, and the suspect did not mention where the firearm was being kept.
The possible motive is a personal grudge that took place last month, as seen by the police.
The suspect used to be a person deprived of liberty and faced charges of frustrated murder in 2014.
The suspect is now under the custody of the Ubay police and faces charges of murder and was charged on Nov. 20, 2025.
Talibon bishop speaks out against corruption amid criticism of Church’s silence
Talibon bishop Daniel Parcon has chided the corruption in the country as the scandal has rocked the country with critics slamming the Catholic church for being silent about the corruption scandal.
The church has been staunch in its stance against corruption and it is untrue that it has remained silent on the matter.
In previous months, the church was among the organizers of the trillion-peso march, one of the biggest protest actions against corruption where the prelates joined the laity and members of other faiths that protested the existence of corruption in the country.
Various bishops released statements against corruption following the said rally.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) called on the public to pray for the country and to wear white clothing and to display white ribbons as a symbol of transparency, accountability and good governance.
The church is unlike political groups who resort to theatrics to draw attention from the public.
Letting out calculated remarks is not a sign of cowardice, but part of responsible struggle.
The Diocese of Talibon reminded the people that history tells us that the church was among those who stood up and participated in significant struggles for democracy including the EDSA revolution.
Parcon said that there is no reason for the church to remain silent and has shown activism since the onset of the scandals.
Bohol gov Aris remains supportive of PBBM’s administration
Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado has remained supportive of the plans and programs of the administration of President Marcos Jr.
The governor explained that he supports the programs and projects of the president as the latter is the leader of the republic.
The governor is also a member of the ruling Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), the political party of the president.
Marcos Jr. is the national chairman of the PFP.
Aumentado said projects funded by the national government will not be cleared with the provincial government and implemented directly by the implementing agency, such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Moreover, Aumentado does not hold any grudge against the president when Marcos Jr. did not reappoint him as chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-7.
Aumentado jumped from the Nationalist People’s Coalition to the PFP and joined the administration’s super majority as his wife, Vanessa, is a member of the Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats.
Mabini SB majority rejects idea to close fish port
Reports said the majority of councilors of the Mabini Sangguniang Bayan (SB) rejected the idea to close the local fish port temporarily, the report said on Nov. 20, 2025.
This is according to Coun. Lebe Baldo, who filed a resolution asking Mabini mayor Onjie Grace Lim to halt the docking of barges carrying rivers and on to the said fishport until next month.
The fishport has been used for barges coming from Leyte and parts of Mindanao.
Baldo was outvoted by her peers and killed her resolution allegedly out of fear of the mayor.
Baldo said she sponsored the resolution following a plea of a barangay kagawad of a coastal barangay as the road and the fishport already sustained damage as a result of incessant rains.
Baldo said barges dock in the fishport twice a week at a minimum.
As there were a lot of dumptrucks entering the fishport to haul riversand from the barge, it exacerbated the damage on the road leading to the fishport and the continous rains made the damage worse.
She clarified the goal for the temporary closure is to allow construction the time to repair the damage at the fishport area.
Sen. Lacson says Olaivar, Bersamin used PBBM’s name for alleged corruption
Senate President pro tempore Panfilo Lacson revealed on November 19, 2025, that resigned Boholano education undersecretary Trygve Olaivar and former Liaison Undersecretary Adrian Bersamin allegedly used the name of President Marcos Jr. in a corruption scheme.
Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Usec. Roberto Bernardo narrated that Olaivar and Bersamin used Marcos’ name to convince former Cong. Elizaldy Co that President Marcos Jr. allegedly ordered budget insertions during the bicameral conference committee hearings on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill (GAB), which eventually became the General Appropriations Act.
Lacson said that it turned out that the mention of the president’s name was a strategy to make it appear the insertions have the imprimatur from the highest office of the land, the project budget that was inserted into the GAB even though there was no direct order coming from the President.
Co revealed that Marcos Jr. and his cousin, former Speaker Martin Romualdez, were tagged as those who allegedly pocketed billions of pesos in kickbacks from projects inserted into the GAB.
Co made the revelations in a series of videos posted on social media.
Olaivar and the younger Bersamin, along with former Executive Sec Lucas Bersamin and Budget Sec. Amena Pangandaman, have left their posts.
YFC holds CV-wide conference
The Youth for Christ (YFC) held its Central Visayas conference on Nov. 15 and 16, 2025 in Cebu City.
About 1,400 delegates from four provinces of Central Visayas, Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental and Siquijor attended the event.
The participants conducted several activities including worship and sharing, with other activities like tree planting and symposia.
The event provided insights on the youth about the importance of family and that love installs sacrifices.
Karylle Isabella Ancog, the Towards Renewal in Christ (TORCH) head of the YFC shared information about her organization during the Nov. 21, 2025 episode of Newsmakers ug Uban Pa with Carl Hinlo, Bjay Ocon-Baquero and John Bugahod.
She said the members of TORCH YFC are children of the mission core group of Couples for Christ (CFC) and intended to help the youth whose parents are members of CFC to make them more responsible and good servant leaders.
She said there is a need to encourage them to become servant leaders.
The organization has become an avenue to meet other youth from other places like within the region.
She said YFC is a ministry under CFC intended for the youth to strengthen their faith not just towards God but also to family.
It is also a way to socialize with other youths and not just for religious purposes.
Ancog hails from Corella, Bohol.