Signal number 1 hoisted over Bohol as tropical depression Verbena brings heavy rains
Wind signal number 1 is hoisted over Bohol this Monday, November 24, 2025, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Tropical Depression Verbena has been bringing rains to parts of Bohol, especially in Tagbilaran City.
Flooding is feared to happen in some parts of Bohol.
As of 4 am on Monday, Verbena was located 330 kilometers east of Surigao del Norte.
It packs winds of 45 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of about 55 kph.
The tropical depression is moving westward at the speed of 30 kph.
Strong winds extend outwards up to 200 kilometers from the center.
Based on the forecast track, by 2 pm, Verbena is expected to be at 90 kilometers east of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte.
By 2 am tomorrow, November 25, 2025, it will be at the coastal waters of Liloan, Cebu, and then will visit Antique tomorrow afternoon.
Wind signal number 1 is hoisted over the Visayas area, including Bohol, and some portions of Eastern Samar, Biliran, Leyte, and some portions of Cebu, Negros island, and parts of Panay Island, some parts of Dinagat Islands, including Siargao and other islands.
Bohol will experience heavy rains, like in the rest of the Visayas, with strong winds brought by Verbena.
The seas surrounding Bohol are going to be rough.
Tagbilaran OBO issues notice of violation to starbucks
The Tagbilaran Office of the Building Official (OBO) has issued a notice of violation (NOV) against the construction of the Starbucks Coffee Shop at CPG Avenue and J. Borja streets.
The NOV was issued due to the lack of setback in the proposed store.
According to reports on November 24, 2025, the NOV was issued on November 5, 2025, after OBO inspectors found that the construction site lacks the necessary setback, which is 7.5 meters from the gutter line from the two streets.
Mayor Jane Yap confirmed the issuance of the NOV, stating that the OBO is monitoring the implementation of corrective measures made at the construction site.
The mayor said that every project in the city should comply with the law and will not be allowed to continue unless corrected.
She also stated that no occupancy permit will be issued if no corrections are made on the violations.
Occupancy permits are needed for establishments to start legal operations in the city.
The OBO advised the owners of Starbucks to correct the violation in order to continue with the construction, and the city will be able to issue the necessary permits needed to operate the said establishment.
The lot where Starbucks sits is owned by the Diocese of Tagbilaran and will host the single-storey coffee shop operated by Rustans Coffee Corporation.
The establishment of the coffee shop in the lot was made possible following the rezoning from an institutional zone used by Holy Spirit School of Tagbilaran into a light-density commercial zone, and the rezoning was released in September 2025.
Starbucks is the world’s largest coffee chain and is located in 80 countries.
In Central Visayas, there are multiple sites in Cebu City, and there are two outlets in Dumaguete City.
P18.7M worth of alleged shabu seized in Tagbilaran within 3 months
The Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) reported on November 24, 2025, that it seized around three kilos of alleged shabu worth over P19 million within the period of July to September 2025.
The alleged shabu were taken by the TCPS in various operations in the city, led by its police chief, Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober.
Around 17 persons were arrested in the same time period, including three high-valued targets.
The TCPS also said that the city-wide CCTV network has been a huge help to law enforcers.
The CCTV network has been bolstered under the leadership of Mayor Jane Yap.
The network has become an invaluable tool in crime prevention and crime solution, as it helped solve crimes committed in the city.
The CCTV footage was used to solve the robbery at Antmart early this month.
Two suspects barged into the Antmart at CPG Avenue at the height of the onslaught of Typhoon Tino.
The suspects were identified with the help of CCTV footage, and the police are now in the process of filing cases against the suspects.
According to City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief Gerard Lavadia, around 400 CCTV cameras are dispersed around the city, monitoring different nooks and crannies of Tagbilaran.
The police have direct access to the CCTV and live monitoring for hot pursuit operations.
Reports said CCTV footage are retained for three weeks before the footage are overwritten.
Tourism Stakeholders Insist Not All Services in Panglao Are Expensive
Tourism stakeholders said on November 22, 2025, that not all services in Panglao are considered expensive, despite insinuations made by netizens on social media.
They said that there are still more affordable options for tourists to choose from when visiting Panglao.
Some netizens claim that Bohol’s prices are akin to the price of gold, and it has been seen as one of the possible reasons why tourists are shying away from the tropical paradise in Central Visayas.
The Panglao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) president, Uco Trotin, said that there are budget options available in the island, adding that it would be a bit expensive to stay in five-star hotels as their services are top-notch and of high quality.
Moreover, these accommodations pay plenty of hotel staff, increasing their cost of operations.
Tourists need to dig deep and research well to find more affordable options.
Earlier, Governor Aria Aumentado advised tourists to choose reputable travel agencies to lower the cost of their visit to Bohol.
For those who choose to visit the island without any help and do it by themselves, he said that they should research for the best deals available.
Mary Rose Edubas, a key player in the local tourism industry, said that more often, those who are not accredited tend to charge more to tourists.
Meanwhile, Bohol recorded 980,000 tourists visiting the province from January to October.
This comes as there was a marked decline in tourist arrivals into the province and the rest of the country.
On November 21, 2025, Provincial Tourism Officer-in-Charge Joanne Pinat said that tourism in Bohol remains stable, as tourists and domestic tourists continue to flock to the area.
The latest data show that Bohol remains one of the most sought-after tourism destinations in the country, despite insinuations on social media that tourists are shying away from Bohol due to its expensiveness.
Pinat said that most of the visitors to Bohol are from the domestic market, as more investors come in, which is indicative of continued trust in Bohol’s tourism industry.
It is expected that tourists will continue to arrive in the coming months as tourism here enters the peak season.
ERC orders power firms, electric coops to impose moratorium on disconnections
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered all private power distribution utilities and electric cooperatives to cease disconnection activities for the whole month of November and December.
The order affects all distribution utilities and electric cooperatives, including those in Bohol.
The power firm Bohol Light and Bohol 1 and 2 Electric Cooperative (BOHECO 1 and 2) are the power distribution utilities operating in the island province.
The ERC said this is meant to ease the burden on millions of consumers affected by the series of typhoons that hit the country.
The Philippines was hit by typhoon Tino and Supertyphoon Uwan early this month, affecting almost the entire country.
Aside from the no disconnection policy until the end of 2025, consumers of up to 100 kilowatt-hours are also entitled to staggered payments in areas battered by the recent typhoons and earthquakes.
Also this year, the northern part of Cebu province and the Davao region were hit with massive earthquakes causing scores of death and damage to property.
Earlier, the Power4people Coalition urged the government to halt any upward price adjustment to ease the burden on millions of Filipinos who were affected by the typhoons.
But ERC Chair Nino Juan said that the ‘no disconnection’ and staggered payment schemes will also help consumers nationwide.
The Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, Inc. (PHILRECA), which represents 121 Electric cooperatives all over the country, said they would also comply, but are worried about not being able to pay their suppliers.
But PHILRECA also said that if many consumers opt to pay through staggered payments, or not to pay at all, since there is no disconnection, many electric co-ops will not be able to pay suppliers in full, foregoing the discount for paying on time.
Another problem for some electric cooperatives is the possibility that many consumers will opt not to pay this November and December, since there is no disconnection anyway.
Aboitiz completes key airport upgrades in Bohol-Panglao and Laguindingan
Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) has finished key upgrades at Bohol-Panglao (BPIA) and Laguindingan (LIA) International Airports, intended to improve operational reliability at the country’s sixth- and ninth-busiest airports respectively ¹.
AIC reported the completion on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025. The upgrades are meant to improve operational reliability at the airports.
“These improvements are important infrastructure upkeep that reflect our shared commitment with the government to make every AIC airport experience safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable for our travelers,” Aboitiz InfraCapital President and Chief Executive Officer Cosette V. Canilao said in a media release on Sunday, Nov 23, 2025.
The company assumed operations and maintenance of BPIA and LIA this year.
AIC said the improvements included essential repairs to facilitate passenger access, assessments of uninterruptible power supply systems, and servicing of baggage carousels.
Additional preventive maintenance was carried out at BPIA for passenger boarding bridges and baggage weighing scales, reflecting the company’s efforts to modernize the airports.
AIC aims to increase BPIA’s annual capacity by 25%, from two million to 2.5 million passengers, within two years, under a P4.53-billion investment plan covering terminal expansion, modern aviation systems, and enhancements to airside and landside facilities.
The company also targets boosting capacity to 3.9 million passengers annually by 2030.
The 30-year concession agreement for BPIA covers upgrades, expansion, and maintenance starting from the airport’s turnover in June.
For LIA, AIC announced last year that it would partner with Ireland-based data International to implement upgrades and manage operations.
In addition to these regional airports, Aboitiz InfraCapital also manages Mactan-Cebu International Airport and has expressed interest in taking over operations and maintenance of other regional airports across the Philippines.
Boholano boxer Regie Suganob outclasses Tanzanian opponent in main event
Boholano boxer Regie Suganob outclassed Tanzanian Mchanja Yohana in the main event of PMI-Bohol Boxing Promotions at the PMI Main Campus, Tagbilaran City on Nov. 22, 2025.
Suganob had a masterful performance and outgunned his opponent for 10 rounds.
Observers said that it was clear that Yohana felt Suganob’s power early on in the fight, as he decided to move around the ring instead of taking Suganob head-on.
In the final round, Suganob wobbled Yohana a couple of times but the awkward Tanzanian ran around the ring and survived the fight.
All three judges had identical scores of 99-91 in favor of Suganob.
Suganob, who returned to the ring after a long layoff, improved to 17-1 with six knockouts, while WBO No. 6-ranked flyweight Yohana fell to 22-7-1 with 15 knockouts.
Suganob is gearing up for a possible world title shot next year.
He’s rated No. 4 by the WBO in the light-flyweight division.
He’s also ranked No. 9 by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and No. 11 by the IBF.
According to PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions head Floriezyl Echavez Podot, Suganob will have one more fight in February and hopefully earn a world title shot with the WBO later next year.
The IBF is also another option for him.
Meanwhile, in the undercard, Boholano Virgel Vitor (24-4, 17 KOs) scored an impressive second round knockout of Alven Vergara (8-4-1, 6 KOs), Gerwin Asilo (12-1, 5 KOs) beat Yeroge Gura (8-3-1, 3 KOs) by unanimous decision, former amateur standout Jericho Acaylar (2-0, 2 KOs) knocked out Francis Arante (0-1-1) in the first round.
In other bouts, Leonard Pores III (9-0, 7 KOs) remained undefeated and captured the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) Youth flyweight strap after a convincing unanimous decision victory over Cebu-based Japanese prospect Kiyoto Narukami (5-2-1, 2 KOs) in the show’s main supporting bout.
Pores III got the nod of all three judges with scores of 78-74, 79-73, and 78-74.
Sherwin Dacullo (5-1-1, 2 KOs) stunned previously-unbeaten Freshler Utrera (4-1, 2 KOs) by unanimous decision to win the vacant Philippine Games and Amusements Board Youth minimum weight belt in the other title feature.
Two judges scored it 78-72, while the third judge saw it a bit closer at 76-74, all in favor of Dacullo.
Jick-Kier Autida (1-0, 1 KO) had an impressive pro debut with a second-round stoppage against John Paul Oyong (0-3).
Tourists flock back to Bohol after months of decline
After several months of decline in their visit to Bohol, tourists, particularly foreigners, are now returning to the province.
Reports indicate that planes and sea crafts arriving in Bohol are filled with tourists, a stark contrast to the previous months.
Despite the rains brought by tropical depression Verbena, tourists continue to visit popular areas such as the Chocolate Hills.
In Carmen town, some tourists used umbrellas to shield themselves from the rains on November 24 and 25, 2025, as the tropical depression unleashed heavy rainfall.
A Philippine Airlines flight from Manila to Bohol had only a few vacant seats, proving that more people from other areas are visiting the island province.
Most of the passengers were foreigners or local Filipinos who speak Tagalog.
According to Acting Provincial Tourism Officer Joanne Pinat, the number of tourists who have visited Bohol so far this year, is close to reaching one million.
The local government unit (LGU) of Bohol expects the recorded number of tourists visiting Bohol to surpass the one-million mark by the end of the year as tourists continue to arrive in the province.
Meanwhile, a tourism summit was held in Panglao on November 28, 2025, with the theme “Revitalizing Panglao, Sustainable Solutions for a Thriving Tourism Industry.”
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado praised Panglao Mayor Edgardo Arcay for initiating the said tourism summit, which was held at the Panglao Cultural Center.
Catigbian Mayor Benjie Oliva believes barangay captain may be at fault for being tipsy during session
Catigbian Mayor Benjie Oliva stated on November 24, 2025, that the Baang barangay captain may be held accountable for appearing tipsy at a barangay session.
Oliva expressed this opinion during his guest appearance on Newsmakers ug Uban Pa.
Initial investigations revealed that the barangay captain had consumed alcohol earlier in the day.
According to Oliva, the barangay captain had visitors earlier on the day of the incident and had some drinks before attending the session.
Although Oliva clarified that the barangay captain was not drunk but rather tipsy due to some alcohol intake, he emphasized that the captain’s actions were still wrong.
As the presiding officer, the barangay captain should not have consumed alcohol before the session.
Oliva pointed out that attending a session with some alcohol intake affects decision making and discernment.
He met with the people involved in the incident on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
The incident created a bad impression of the town, and he wants all barangay captains to be disciplined.
The mayor noted that barangay officials are covered by civil service rules and may be subjected to disciplinary actions.
While Oliva believes that the barangay captain may face some sanctions, he does not think they will be severe.
The main controversy in Barangay Baang, Catigbian, involves the barangay captain who was allegedly drunk during an official session.
A video circulating on social media shows a heated exchange between a councilor and the barangay captain, identified as Ulyses Digaum.
Barangay Kagawad Eutiquio Batulanon Jr. can be heard in the viral video as he engages in a trade of barbs with Digaum, chastising the latter for being tipsy and still attending the session.
Although the video has been deleted, several copies still exist on the internet.
In the video, Batulanon told Digaum that people will not believe the barangay captain as he was tipsy.
The kagawad also asked the Department of the Interior and Local Government, as well as the Ombudsman, to investigate the barangay captain for allegedly being tipsy at the session.
Driver suffers double whammy in Sagbayan
A motorcyclist suffered a double whammy in a road accident in Sagbayan on November 26, 2025.
The victim, Pedro Matildo of barangay La Paz, Carmen, was rushed to a hospital in Tagbilaran City following the accident.
Apparently, Matildo’s motorcycle ran over a dog, causing him to fall to the ground.
As he was waiting for help, another motorcycle ran over him.
Matildo was traveling home after visiting his child and was approaching Canmaya Diot, Sagbayan when the accident happened.
He sustained injuries all over his body and is now getting medical attention for his injuries.
Man dies after falling into deep hole
A man believed to have fallen into a deep hole died in Maribojoc town.
The victim, 68-year-old Raymundo Lasaca of barangay Bayacabac, was found lifeless at the bottom of the hole near his home.
Lasaca had left his home on November 24, 2025, and had a drinking spree with his neighbors.
His relatives raised the alarm when he did not return home.
He was discovered lifeless by his niece in the afternoon of November 25, 2025.
It is believed that Lasaca fell into the hole by accident around Monday night as he was heading home.
He sustained head trauma from the fall, and there was no foul play detected.
The body was already dead for 12 hours.
Bohol Water Code ordinance filed at provincial board
A measure called the Water Code of the Province of Bohol was filed on November 25, 2025, at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP).
The measure, filed by Board Member Greg Jala, aims to protect and seamlessly protect the water resources of Bohol.
It offers a complete regulatory framework and policies in the use, protection, and management of all water resources of Bohol.
The ordinance emphasizes the importance of water resources and its impact on the quality of life, protecting the environment and economy.
There is a risk of fresh water shortage in Bohol emerging due to population increase, climate change, and progress of the tourism industry, agriculture, and other uses of water.
The code aims to protect the water within Bohol and use it wisely, allocating it accordingly for domestic, agriculture, and tourism, and making it clean, safe, and accessible to all Boholanos.
Water resources will be managed based on science with the participation of the community and protected against pollution, excessive extraction, wastage, and harm to the environment.
The Water Code will cover rivers, river basins, surface water, ground water, springs, fresh water wetlands, watersheds, and recharge zones and other fresh water interfaces near the shore.
Bohol not as expensive as thought
Some domestic travelers have shunned the idea that Bohol is an expensive travel option.
These travelers, who visited Bohol from other places in the country, refuted posts from other travelers who claimed that Bohol is expensive.
Some individuals posted rants on social media, criticizing the prices of services and products, especially in Panglao.
However, a content creator known as Mommy Kai from Davao City shared an honest review saying that it’s not true that all services in Panglao are expensive.
According to her, the secret is knowing where to find more affordable deals, which are available to tourists.
She noted that checking-in at a five-star hotel or dining in high-end restaurants in Panglao can be expensive.
However, there are many choices for more affordable dining options available in Panglao, as well as affordable options for accommodations.
Mommy Kai urged people, especially Boholanos, to support their own tourism industry instead of spreading negative news about it.
Earlier, Panglao Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Uco Trotin also said that there are plenty of affordable options available in Panglao.
Controlled dredging of Abatan river seen as solution to flooding
Cortes Mayor Rudy Uy sees the controlled dredging of Abatan River as a solution to halt flooding caused by the overflow of the river following a huge rainfall.
He believes that dredging at the mouth of Abatan River will help stop the overflow of water from the river and prevent flooding in some parts of his town.
Torrential rains brought by tropical depression Verbena caused flooding in several areas, including Cortes, where the water from Abatan overflowed and flooded the road at the boundary of Maribojoc and Cortes and the Loteto-Rosario Road.
As these places were inundated, Uy suggested controlled dredging at the mouth of Abatan River.
However, he noted that too much dredging might lead to criticisms that there is sand extraction happening.
He emphasized that the mouth of the river needs to be dredged to prevent the overflowing of water into other areas when there is incessant rain.
According to him, there is no need for sheet files or flood control at the river, since according to him, the river used to be deep enough to contain water and prevent flooding.
Meanwhile, trash was seen as the culprit behind flooding at Poblacion 1, Sikatuna, according to Mayor Justiniana Ellorimo.
She said the canal at Poblacion 1 overflowed and caused flooding due to clogging as a result of poor waste disposal.
About six sacks filled with plastic trash were recovered from the canal, and they are looking for funds to expand the canal.
Entry of pork into Bohol to be regulated
Board member Lucille Lagunay clarified that the entry of pork and pork products into Bohol will be regulated as a new ordinance lifts the total entry ban of such products into the province.
Lagunay, who sponsored the measure that lifted the total entry ban of pork and pork products into Bohol, emphasized that the lifting of the ban does not mean that these products will have a free pass into the province.
Only those with complete documentation and requirements are allowed entry into Bohol.
A veterinary health certificate is among the requirements needed to allow pork and pork products’ entry into Bohol, along with negative African Swine Fever (ASF) test results and other requirements as mandated by national guidelines.
The zone classification will be based on laboratory results, surveillance data, and biosecurity compliance.
Stricter inspection at ports of entry, mandatory disinfection of transport vehicles, and regular ASF testing of lechon operators will also be implemented.
Those who will violate the law will be penalized with a fine of around P5,000 per violation and possibly imprisonment of not more than six months at the court’s discretion.
The shipping, airlines, and courier services that bring tainted products to Bohol will also be penalized.
POEA tracks if Boholanos are among Hongkong fire victims
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is still tracking if there are any Boholanos among the Hong Kong fire victims.
About 44 people perished in a fire that erupted in Hong Kong on November 26, 2025.
There were also 300 people trapped in a fire that hit a high-rise apartment building in the northern Tai Po district.
The complex, Wang Fuk Court, had about 2,000 apartments in the 32-story towers across the eight towers in the complex.
The fire erupted around 3 pm on Wednesday and quickly spread throughout the building.
The exact initial cause of the recent deadly fire at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district is still under investigation.
However, authorities have identified several factors that caused the blaze to spread rapidly and uncontrollably.
The apartment towers were undergoing extensive renovations and were covered in highly flammable materials, including traditional bamboo scaffolding and green construction netting/mesh.
Police and fire officials suspect that the protective netting, plastic sheeting, and tarpaulin used did not meet fire safety standards and burned far more intensely than permitted materials.
Authorities discovered highly flammable polystyrene (styrofoam) boards covering windows of multiple apartments, which caused the fire to spread quickly within the buildings and from flat to flat through corridors.
Strong winds of around 14 km/h in the area at the time likely fanned the flames, helping the fire to spread up the exterior of the towers and to adjacent buildings.
Police have arrested three men, including two directors and an engineering consultant from the construction company responsible for the maintenance work, on suspicion of manslaughter, believing their “gross negligence” led to the disaster.
The fire, which reached a level five alarm (the highest severity level in Hong Kong), has resulted in dozens of deaths and hundreds of people missing, making it the city’s deadliest fire in over 60 years.
Authorities are conducting a full criminal investigation into the incident and the safety lapses.
Barangay tanod arrested in buy-bust operation
A barangay tanod was arrested following a buy-bust operation conducted by the San Isidro drug enforcement unit on November 22, 2025, in Barangay Cambansag.
The suspect was identified as John Donald Baraña, 26, of Barangay Abehilan.
The suspect was arrested following a buy-bust operation, which was witnessed by barangay officials and the media.
Seized from the suspect were packets of alleged shabu weighing 0.15 grams and valued at P1,020.
Charges of violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 were filed against the suspect.
Tubigon police arrest drug suspect in buy-bust operation
Tubigon police arrested a drug suspect on November 24, 2025, following a buy-bust operation in Barangay Talenceras.
The suspect was identified as alias Iton, 32, of Barangay Centro.
Reports said the suspect allegedly sold alleged drugs to a poseur buyer and was arrested after.
Packets of alleged shabu weighing around 15 grams and valued at P102,000 were taken from the suspect.
Charges of violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 await the suspect.
BWUI outlines water connection application process
The Bohol Water Utilities Inc. (BWUI) revealed the process for applying for a water connection on November 26, 2025.
BWUI is offering opportunities for connections as the company has been laying new pipes and creating new connections, according to Victor Tambis during his guest appearance on Open Forum on November 26, 2025.
He said BWUI has been accepting applications from potential consumers for the installation of new connections, especially in areas with newly laid water pipes.
BWUI has laid new pipes in parts of barangay Taloto, parts of barangay Cabawan, parts of barangay Tiptip, and parts of barangay San Isidro.
The company recently completed pipe laying along Lacusa street, San Isidro; Kinampay street in Cabawan, and Esabo street in barangay Tiptip.
Those interested in getting water connections in these areas need to visit the BWUI office and get the list of requirements, including a land title or tax declaration where the residence of the applicant is located, or any legal document authorizing the applicant to apply for a water connection for the said location.
A vicinity map from the City Assessor’s Office, building permit or certificate of residency from the barangay, and a valid ID of the applicant are also required, Tambis said.
Upon completion and submission of the requirements, BWUI will conduct a site inspection, and the inspector will advise the applicant to visit the BWUI office again to settle the application fee.
The line will be installed and connected to BWUI within 24 hours from approval of the application, he said.
Alturas Mall lauded for 40th anniversary successful celebration
Ariel Fullido, spokesperson for the Alturas Group of Companies (AGC), announced on November 25, 2025, that the iconic Alturas Mall has celebrated its 40th anniversary with a bang .
Fullido expressed his gratitude to everyone who made the celebration possible.
He specifically thanked the customers, mall employees, business partners, as well as sponsors of the event.
According to Fullido, the consuming public played a crucial role in the mall’s success, as they have been patronizing Alturas Mall for the last 40 years.
The highlight of the week-long celebration was on Monday, which featured various activities, including a three-day sale.
During this period, the mall venue, especially the Home and Fashion Department, was packed with people grabbing bargains.
Many customers arrived early to avoid the shopping rush due to the influx of more customers into the store.
Some shoppers aimed to avoid the Christmas rush by shopping for gifts during the sale.
As part of the celebration, Alturas Mall also held the Quest for the Voice amateur singing competition.
Motorcyclist injured in collision with another vehicle
A motorist was hurt after colliding with another vehicle ahead of him on November 26, 2025, in Baclayon.
The injured motorist was identified as Alfredo Andayan Barro, a resident of barangay Cogon, Lila.
Barro was on board his motorcycle, traveling from Tagbilaran City and heading home.
Upon reaching barangay Laya, Baclayon, he attempted to overtake the vehicle in front of him.
However, he failed to notice that the vehicle in front of him made a sudden left turn as he was making the overtaking maneuver.
This resulted in a collision, causing the accident and the victim’s injuries.
Barro sustained injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital in Tagbilaran City.
He is still being treated by doctors in the hospital.
Cong. Art Yap backs speaker Bojie Dy
Cong. Art Yap is among the 44 members of the Party List Coalition Foundation who signed a manifesto of support for Speaker Bojie Dy.
According to their manifesto, they expressed their trust in Dy’s leadership at the House of Representatives.
The manifesto signing was led by the coalition president, Jose “Bong” Teves of TCP Party List, and coalition vice president Brian Revilla of AGIMAT Party List.
Other signatories include Felimon Espares from COOP NATCO and Raymond Democrito Mendoza of TUCP Party List.
Aldredo Garbin Jr. of Ako Bikol party list and Richelle Singson of Ako Ilokano party list also signed the manifesto.
These individuals have expressed their support for Speaker Dy’s leadership.
Bohol councilors attend year-end assessment
Several councilors from across Bohol attended the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) year-end assessment on November 27 to 28, 2025, at Henann Resort in barangay Tawala, Panglao.
Some councilors expressed their intent to attend, as they can get a rebate on their registration fee.
The conference was led by PCL Bohol president and Cortes councilor Board Member Joanna Cabalot-Initay.
The registration fees varied depending on the accommodation arrangement: P23,000 for single occupancy, P19,000 for double occupancy, and P15,000 for triple sharing.
However, some councilors initially expressed their intention to skip the convention due to the high fees.
A promise of rebate eventually changed their minds.
The fees were earlier criticized by former PCL president Gloria Gementiza of San Isidro.
Gementiza argued that the fees were expensive compared to the fees charged by the national PCL for its year-end assessment, which was only P19,500 for a two-night stay, whereas the P23,000 was only for an overnight stay.
PDC holds execom meeting, discusses big-ticket projects for 2026
The Provincial Development Council (PDC) conducted its 10th Executive Committee meeting on November 26, 2025, at the Capitol.
During the meeting, the PDC discussed big-ticket projects for Bohol for 2026.
The meeting was led by Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, where projects were discussed for inclusive and sustainable development for Bohol.
The PDC endorsed the supplemental Annual Investment Program (AIP) No. 7 for 2025, presented by the Provincial Budget Management Office.
The AIP will be sent to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for approval and includes the projects and budget needed to implement the said projects eyed for next year in Bohol.
The plan is based on strategic investments, and the executive committee also enforced flagship projects presented by the Provincial Planning and Development Office.
These projects aim to expand infrastructure, social services, and economic development to ensure the long-term competitiveness of Bohol.
The flood control master plan for Bohol was also presented by the planning office’s infrastructure development sector, which includes the use of Sabo Dam technology to reduce the risks of flooding and protect the community against climate change.
Other projects discussed include initiatives in health and infrastructure, such as the construction of a 10-storey specialty building and a two-level basement facility at the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center.
The third phase of the Gov. Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Center in barangays Malayo Sur, Cortes, was also discussed to expand Bohol’s ability to provide advanced and accessible healthcare services.
The Provincial Foreshore Management Plan was also discussed, with a focus on better development and management of coastal zones within the confines of sustainable development.
Barangay Kagawad posts bail for vote buying charge
A barangay kagawad from Garcia Hernandez, who was accused of vote buying, has posted bail and gained provisional liberty after having been arrested.
The barangay kagawad was arrested for vote buying during the last barangay election and posted a bail worth P8,000.
The arrest was made after a court issued an arrest warrant.
Another barangay kagawad in Valencia was also arrested after a warrant of arrest was issued.
However, the Garcia Hernandez police refused to identify the accused in the case.
The arrest warrant for the barangay kagawad in Garcia Hernandez was issued by the Regional Trial Court branch 50 based in Loay.
Bohol wins subayBAYANIaward for infrastructure governance
Bohol won a SubayBAYANI award in the recent November 26, 2025, ceremony.
The province was recognized as one of the Top 10 Provinces nationwide for exemplary infrastructure governance.
This is the second consecutive year Bohol has received this distinction from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The LGU Exemplar Award was given to Bohol for being one of the Top 10 Provinces in the country.
The DILG handed the award to winners, including Bohol, to honor local government units (LGUs) that demonstrate outstanding performance in infrastructure implementation, monitoring, transparency, and effective utilization of the DILG’s “SubayBAYAN” platform.
This platform is a digital tool used for real-time tracking and citizen engagement in infrastructure.
The award acknowledges the provincial government’s efforts for the proper implementation of infrastructure projects, along with the strict monitoring of said projects.
Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado said the award shows the commitment of his administration in the proper implementation and strict monitoring of all initiatives in infrastructure.
Aumentado received the LGU Exemplar Award on behalf of the Provincial Government of Bohol at the Manila Hotel on Wednesday, which was attended by President Marcos Jr. himself.
Bohol was awarded for its unwavering dedication to good governance and innovative infrastructure development, showing transparency, accountability, and public service.
Meanwhile, Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol, also received a SubayBAYANI Awardee – Exemplar for FY 2025 for the successful completion and operation of the Tagbilaran City College.
Tagbilaran was awarded for being a model for the proper management of infrastructure projects and efficient implementation of projects.
Fisherman arrested in buy-bust operation in Bien Unido
Elements of the Bien Unido drug enforcement team arrested a fisherman following a buy-bust operation in barangay Poblacion on November 23, 2025.
The suspect, known as alias Mark, is a 40-year-old resident of barangay Sagasa and is considered a street-level individual.
The operation resulted in the confiscation of 1.2 grams of alleged shabu, valued at approximately P8,160.
The operation was witnessed by barangay officials and the media.
The suspect now faces charges of violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Baang barangay captain admits to being tipsy during session
Baang, Catigbian Barangay Captain Ulyses Digaum admitted that he was tipsy when he attended the barangay council session on November 21, 2025.
This admission came during a meeting at the office of Mayor Benjie Oliva on November 25, 2025.
Digaum, along with Barangay Kagawad Eutiquio Batolanon Jr. and other councilors, were summoned to the mayor’s office in relation to a viral video.
The video showed Batolanon chiding Digaum for allegedly being tipsy during the barangay council session.
Oliva reprimanded Digaum, stating that the barangay captain should be sober when attending barangay events or functions.
Batolanon expressed his embarrassment, saying that he felt ashamed for Baang that their barangay captain was tipsy during a session of the barangay council.
He said he reached a tipping point and finally stood up to criticize Digaum for appearing under the influence of alcohol and then attending the session.
The mayor moved to reconcile the two main parties, including other councilors.
Oliva said he felt embarrassed after the video went viral and was viewed 2 million times.
OPV releases statement on ASF vaccine trial
The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV) released a statement on November 26, 2025, regarding the African Swine Fever (ASF) vaccine.
The statement explained the mechanics of the national ASF vaccine trial eligibility requirements and the current status of ASF in Bohol.
According to the OPV, the ASF vaccine has not been approved for commercial use and is still classified under national trial and controlled monitoring by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The use of the ASF vaccine is limited to certain areas within the scope of the study by national government agencies.
During the Animal Health Congress of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) on November 17, 2025, it was reported that only six provinces in Luzon are included in the pilot vaccination trial.
These provinces are Batangas, Rizal, Laguna, Bulacan, Tarlac, and Pampanga, and include 25 commercial farms, 13 semi-commercial farms, nine small-holder farms, and a government farm.
The DA has released the necessary requirements for a province to be included in the trial, which include that all barangays that will join the trial must have no active ASF case within a minimum of 40 days or have already finished ASF-negative surveillance.
The farms must also adhere to minimum biosecurity requirements aligned with their category.
The swine included in the trials must be ASF-negative and at least four weeks old.
Bohol is currently in the containment stage, with 42 barangays in 17 towns having active ASF cases.
The OPV noted that most of the swine farms in Bohol are backyard or small holders and are not compliant with the required biosecurity levels to be included in the trial.
Some projects in P100b insertions allegedly find way into Bohol
Reports have revealed that some projects included in the controversial P100-billion insertion into the 2025 budget, as alleged by former Cong. Elizaldy Co, have found their way into Bohol.
However, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Second Engineering District head Fernando Talagsa clarified that the funds for these projects were not downloaded to his district.
Talagsa explained that the funds for the projects were above the limit allowed to be handled by an engineering district.
He said that based on the list revealed by Co, the funds stayed at the regional level and were implemented by the regional DPWH.
The regional office was the one that conducted the bidding for the project.
Talagsa explained that if a project costs P200 million or more, the regional office is in charge, and the funds stay there at the region.
Meanwhile, three projects at the Third Engineering District of DPWH and one at the First Engineering District were included in the list of projects in the P100-billion insertion into the 2025 budget.
This was based on the list released by Co on social media.
The Third Engineering District Office had a project at the Pres. Carlos P. Garcia circumferential road-Dimiao section costing P100 million.
There were also projects in Jagna and Valencia, each costing P100 million.
In the First Engineering District Office, the project included in the list revealed by Co was the Pres. Carlos P. Garcia circumferential road from Tagbilaran to Getafe, with a project cost of P200 million.
Some projects in P100B insertions allegedly find way into Bohol
Reports have revealed that some projects included in the controversial P100-billion insertion into the 2025 budget, as alleged by former Cong. Elizaldy Co, have found their way into Bohol.
However, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Second Engineering District head Fernando Talagsa clarified that the funds for these projects were not downloaded to his district.
Talagsa explained that the funds for the projects were above the limit allowed to be handled by an engineering district.
He said that based on the list revealed by Co, the funds stayed at the regional level and were implemented by the regional DPWH.
The regional office was the one that conducted the bidding for the project.
Talagsa explained that if a project costs P200 million or more, the regional office is in charge, and the funds stay there at the region.
Meanwhile, three projects at the Third Engineering District of DPWH and one at the First Engineering District were included in the list of projects in the P100-billion insertion into the 2025 budget.
This was based on the list released by Co on social media.
The Third Engineering District Office had a project at the Pres. Carlos P. Garcia circumferential road-Dimiao section costing P100 million.
There were also projects in Jagna and Valencia, each costing P100 million.
In the First Engineering District Office, the project included in the list revealed by Co was the Pres. Carlos P. Garcia circumferential road from Tagbilaran to Getafe, with a project cost of P200 million.