Cebu guv sworn in as RDC 7 chair
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro took her oath as the new chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) 7 on Dec. 4, 2025.
The oath-taking ceremony was held in Cebu during the fourth quarter full council meeting at the social hall of the Cebu provincial capitol.
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado, the former RDC 7 chairman, facilitated the oath to Baricuatro.
As a rookie governor, Baricuatro now leads RDC 7, where key projects in the region are discussed and approved.
The RDC 7 serves as a policy-making and planning body to boost coordination with local government and national government agencies as well as development partners in Central Visayas.
The council is composed of government officials and representatives from the private sector to ensure the region’s development is aligned with the national trajectory in terms of progress.
Aumentado relinquished his post after serving as RDC 7 chairman for three years.
He expressed support for the leadership of new chairperson Baricuatro and pointed out the continued unity to boost development and to push for initiatives for Central Visayas.
Aumentado is proud of what the RDC achieved during his incumbency as chairman and hopes that Baricuatro will continue the momentum he started.
Aumentado thanked the RDC for trusting him for three years as he led the sustainable and inclusive development in Central Visayas.
Baricuatro immediately presided over the fourth quarter full council meeting on Dec. 4, 2025.
Challenge looms for Panglao business owners as Badjao swarms to ask for alms
A huge challenge looms for business owners and even those managing resorts as Badjaos are swarming the tourist areas in Panglao asking for alms this holiday season.
These business owners are looking for solutions to keep the Badjaos away from tourists as they ask for alms especially at Alona Beach in barangay Tawala.
There are plenty of tourists roaming at Alona Beach patronizing the myriad of businesses located there and they have become targets of Badjaos who have been asking for alms, said Uco Trotin of the Alona Beach Community Association Inc.
He said solving the mendicancy problem in the area is quite a challenge as some Badjaos have become aggressive when the mendicants are accosted.
Trotin said there were instances the staff of businesses were at the receiving end of Badjao’s ire when the mendicants were being accosted and asked to leave.
There was an incident a Badjao went berserk and threw a rock towards a waitress after the mendicant was asked to leave.
The instance caused anxiety and fear among workers at Alona Beach and this may set a bad image to the tourists.
Even if the police step in, they continue to return to the area and ask for alms, Trotin said.
The presence of Badjaos become an eyesore for tourists who are not accustomed on seeing mendicants in tourist areas, he said
Tourist police are patrolling the area to ensure the safety of tourists, businesses and staff.
However, Badjaos are swarming and seemingly outnumbers those assigned those who are tasked to move the mendicants away from the tourist areas Trotin urges the Department of Social Welfare and Development to help solve the mendicancy problem as it is feared more Badjaos will swarm the area asking for alms as tourists are now returning to Bohol.
Trotin asks the provincial government to help solve the problem about Badjao mendicancy.
ROADSIDE DAMAGE HITS TOURIST SPOT: Fissures cause lumber to fall into river in Loboc
Pieces of lumber were swept away into the river, including the structure that served as the receiving area for tourists who wanted to engage in water sports activities.
The soil where the structure sat was damaged after sustaining fissures at the side of the road in Barangay Valladolid, Loboc, in the morning of December 4, 2025.
According to Valladolid Barangay Captain Pedro Acuña, he received reports that there were fissures along the side of the road near where the lumber was located in Purok 1.
He then asked the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management team to take a look at the area.
The barangay agreed to cut down the trees, but nature had other plans and swept the lumber into the river, reports said.
There are 17 homes in Purok 1, located near the river. The barangay is among the low-lying villages of Loboc and is normally the first one to experience flooding when there are torrential rains.
Aside from kayaking and other water sports activities, there are also some hotel resorts in the area, as selling nipa is a leading economic driver.
This was not the first time the roadside was damaged, as it also happened almost four years ago at the height of Typhoon Odette.
The area hosts the only road, which is traversed by plenty of heavy equipment, plus it is busy transporting tourists checking into the resorts in the area.
Fisherman arrested for alleged drug trade in Loay town
Elements of the Loay drug enforcement team arrested a fisherman, Kervin Echavez, 18, of barangay Botoc Oriental, on Dec. 6, 2025, following a drug buy bust operation in Botoc, Oriental, Loay.
The sting operation was led by Capt. Augusto Cezar Sumaylo, Loon chief of police, and witnessed by barangay officials and the media.
The suspect was arrested after a poseur buyer was able to purchase alleged drugs worth P500 from the suspect.
Packets of alleged shabu, approximately weighing 2.96 grams and valued at P20,128, were taken from the suspect.
In a separate sting operation in Panglao on Dec. 5, 2025, police from the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit arrested Jasper Jade Orbe, 22, of barangay Bolod, Panglao, in barangay Tawala.
Packets of alleged shabu, weighing approximately five grams and valued at P34,000, were taken from the suspect.
Charges of violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act are filed against them.
Crime rate in Central Visayas drops by 30%
According to reports on December 11, 2025, the number of incidents involving eight focus crimes in Central Visayas, which includes Bohol, has declined by 30%.
This translates to 874 fewer crimes reported this year compared to the same period last year.
The statistics were based on data collected from January to November 2025 and were released by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7.
The eight focus crimes, which are closely monitored due to their impact on peace and order and community security, are murder, homicide, physical injuries, rape, robbery, theft, carnapping, and motorcycle theft.
Among these crimes, carnapping showed the most significant decline at 57.14%, followed by robbery with a 41.18% decline, and motorcycle theft with a 34.88% decline.
The decline in crime incidents is attributed to the PRO7’s strategic intervention and intensified operations.
PRO7 chief Brig. Gen. Redrigo Maranan praised the dedication of police officers in the region, citing their increased visibility and continuous operations as key factors in the decline.
Maranan also expressed his gratitude to the community for their support and cooperation, particularly in providing information that has been instrumental in the fight against crime.
The PRO7 aims to build on this success by doubling its efforts and strengthening its coordination with local governments, stakeholders, and citizens to maintain peace and order in the region.
P6.3M budget set for carmen access road repair
A budget of P6.3 million has been allocated for the repair of the access road to the Chocolate Hills in Carmen.
The access road, which was recently damaged, will be jointly funded by the local government unit of Carmen and the Provincial Government.
This was announced during the fourth quarter meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) on December 9, 2025, at the ceremonial hall at the Capitol.
LGU Carmen will contribute P3 million, while the Provincial Government will shoulder the remaining amount.
The access road was damaged due to the recent incessant rains, which highlighted the need for improvements to the road’s infrastructure.
The road currently lacks drainage canals, sidewalks, and slope protection, making it prone to damage from moisture and erosion.
The new project aims to address these shortcomings by installing steel reinforcement, drainage pipes and canals, metal frames or gradings, stone masonry, and curbs.
The road will also be widened to seven meters and a 0.23-meter thick concrete layer will be added.
The Provincial Engineering Office will oversee the project, which is expected to improve the safety and accessibility of the access road to the iconic Chocolate Hills.
GSIS opens emergency loan facility for Boholanos
The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is now accepting applications for emergency loans from eligible Boholanos.
The loan facility was opened to active members and pensioners following President Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a state of national calamity due to Typhoon Tino.
In addition to the emergency loan, the agency has also imposed a three-month moratorium on the amortization of existing emergency loans.
According to Igmidio Ponay of GSIS Bohol, the program aims to provide financial assistance to government employees and pensioners who were affected by the calamities.
The GSIS is offering an emergency loan of P20,000, and members with existing emergency loans may be eligible for an increased loan amount subject to certain terms and conditions.
Those with existing emergency loans may still apply for a new emergency loan, also subject to terms and conditions.
To be eligible, members must register with the GSIS Touch app.
Pensioners may also avail themselves of the emergency loan, provided that at least 25% of their pension will be left after deducting the loan amortization.
Ponay stated that the term of payment may reach up to three years, depending on the member’s paying capacity.
To be eligible for the emergency loan, applicants must be in active service, have paid three contributions in the past six months, and not have any pending administrative and/or criminal cases.
Applicants must also be taking home at least P5,000 after deductions.
The interest rate for the loan is 6% compounded annually, and applicants must not be on leave without pay at the time of application.
The deadline for application is February 7, 2026, and applications must be made through the GSIS Touch app.
Applicants must also have paid three monthly contributions within the last six months to be eligible.
BPPO joins barangay officials’ capacity development conference
The Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) participated in a conference for barangay officials’ capacity development at the Bohol Cultural Center on December 9, 2025.
The event brought together barangay officials from across Bohol to strengthen grassroots governance and peace and order mechanisms in their respective communities.
During the conference, the BPPO presented ways to enhance the role of barangays in maintaining peace and order and public safety, as they are considered frontline responders.
The barangay officials were taught new methods and strategies to address the rising challenges in their communities.
The session addressed various security issues, including cybercrime prevention, protocols for violence against women and children, a child-sensitive approach for children in conflict with the law, and guidance on national policies.
One of the highlights was the use of best practices by the barangay anti-drug abuse council, which aims to implement effective anti-drug initiatives and community-based interventions to address drug-related concerns at the barangay level.
Boholanos in phenom penh unaffected by Cambodia-Thailand conflict
Boholanos living in Cambodia’s capital, Phenom Penh, reported that they are unaffected by the armed conflict between Cambodia and Thailand.
According to reports, Thailand launched airstrikes against Cambodia due to territory disputes between the two Southeast Asian nations.
A Boholano from Balilihan stated that they are far from the conflict zone.
The Royal Thai Air Force launched airstrikes against the Cambodian military, affecting a number of civilians.
The conflict is centered at the border, where ancient temples are found.
Boholanos in Cambodia hope that the conflict between the two nations will be resolved peacefully.
The two sides agreed to a ceasefire brokered by the United States, although each side has accused the other of violating the ceasefire agreement.
Back in July, the initial conflict resulted in the deaths of about 48 people and displaced 30,000 people.
The two sides agreed to a ceasefire in October, with the pact signed in Kuala Lumpur.
Bohol Light introduces convenient payment options for electric bills
Bohol Light has made it easier for consumers to pay their monthly electric bills, according to Sheryl Paga, the company’s spokesperson, on December 10, 2025.
Paga stated that Bohol Light bills can be settled through various third-party collecting partners.
These include banks, online banking, e-wallet payments, and kiosk machines in 7-11 branches nationwide.
Consumers can also pay their bills through cash deposit machines at the Bohol Light office.
These machines will soon be installed at the Tagbilaran City Hall and some barangay halls to expand payment convenience.
Using the machines is straightforward: simply input the amount to be paid, account name, and account number as indicated on the bill.
To inform consumers about the new payment options, Bohol Light has been distributing flyers.
For more information, consumers can visit the Bohol Light Facebook page to learn more about the details on how to use the new payment methods.
Meanwhile, Paga reported that Bohol Light conducted benchmarking programs with electric power generators and distribution utilities.
The goal is to expand the ways to deliver electricity to consumers and provide more reliable service to the people of Tagbilaran City.
BWUI launches ‘connect now, pay later’ promo for easier water connections
Victor Tambis, spokesperson for Bohol Water Utilities Inc. (BWUI), announced on December 10, 2025, that the company is introducing a ‘Connect Now, Pay Later’ promo to make it more convenient for consumers to apply for new water connections.
According to Tambis, who was a guest on Newsmakers ug Uban Pa, potential new consumers no longer need to pay the connection fee upfront when applying for a new connection and may instead opt to settle the fee on an installment basis.
The installation fee for new connections is P6,000 for residential applicants and P7,000 for commercial applicants.
This fee can be paid in installments over six or 12 months, depending on the applicant’s capacity.
The monthly amortization will be charged on top of the monthly consumption charge and will be reflected on the bill.
Tambis stated that BWUI will connect applicants immediately within 24 hours if the requirements are complete and the application is approved.
The promo started on December 1, 2025, and will run until December 31, 2025.
Consumers may apply for connections to the new water lines in barangays Taloto, Cabawan, Tiptip, San Isidro, and Dao.
BWUI urges those who wish to get new water connections to take advantage of the promo, as any consumers served within the BWUI service area may apply, not just those located along the new water lines.
Minor arrested for alleged drug trade in Valencia
A minor was arrested on December 10, 2025, in Valencia town following a buy-bust operation.
The 15-year-old suspect is from barangay Tawid, Dimiao.
The suspect was arrested in barangay Canlusong after he engaged with a poseur buyer.
Packets of alleged shabu, weighing 3.5 grams and valued at P28,800, were taken from the suspect.
The suspect was turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development and will be facing appropriate charges.
In other news, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) raided the Ubujan home of a former Person Deprived of Liberty (PDL) on December 8, 2025.
The police were able to seize firearms and packets of alleged shabu.
The suspect was identified as Marlon Bulacoy, 32, of barangay Ubujan.
The CIDG team was led by Lt. Renato Garcia, and the raid was witnessed by barangay officials.
The raid was made following a search warrant issued by Judge Josephus Baterna of Regional Trial Court branch 49.
The police were able to seize 12 packets of alleged shabu, approximately weighing five grams and valued at P34,000.
Also taken was a .45 caliber pistol and one round of live ammunition.
The suspect was unable to present proper licenses or permits to possess the firearm and ammunition.
Charges of illegal possession of firearms and violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 have been filed against the suspect.
US mulls scrapping dual citizenship
A Boholano lawyer, Glen Hubahib, discussed the issue on the United States’ plan to remove dual citizenship.
He stated that the plan to revise dual citizen laws in the United States may have connections with immigration and taxation.
During his regular guesting on December 8, 2025, Hubahib explained the plan to scrap the idea of allowing Americans to hold other citizenships besides their US citizenship.
There are rumors that the US is planning to disallow holding of dual or even multiple citizenships and force Americans to hold only US citizenship and denounce any other citizenships.
Hubahib explained that some Americans holding dual citizenship are those who are affluent.
These affluent people use their dual citizenship to avoid excessive taxes in the US.
He said people who hold dual citizenships may be able to avoid paying taxes in the US, and this is what the US government aims to address by eliminating dual citizenships.
Moreover, the government wants people to choose which citizenship to retain for national security reasons.
He said those who have dual allegiance may pose a national security risk, and the US government wants to ensure those who live in America are those loyal to the US.
He said there is a bill filed at the US Congress, and so far what is being heard are just chatter.
The plan to eliminate dual citizenship will go through the legislative mill.
FCB opens new branch in Anda
The First Consolidated Bank (FCB) opened its new branch in Anda town on December 1, 2025.
FCB chairperson Claire Uy led the inauguration of the new Anda branch, together with FCB directors.
The event was attended by Anda vice mayor Rubena Porter and representatives from the local government unit and members of the local business community.
Uy said that the establishment of the Anda branch is part of the bank’s mission to expand its presence to vital areas to serve more clients.
She added that business persons and other stakeholders will have a way to transact with the bank and take advantage of the various bank services.
The new branch shows the dedication of FCB to support the local economy.
The new location is a full-service branch providing various services to customers.
FCB is a leading private development bank in the Philippines, established in 1982 in Bohol by consolidating rural banks.
It has grown into a major full-service institution with nationwide reach, focusing on supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), countryside development, and offering a wide array of financial products for individuals and businesses.
FCB is known for its strong capital and community focus, and it is not affiliated with any major holding company.
FCB was formed in 1982, from 14 merged rural banks in Bohol, pioneering consolidation in the country, and later expanding across the Philippines.
The bank’s focus is on its strong commitment to countryside development, particularly supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
FCB is headquartered in Tagbilaran, Bohol, with numerous branches and branch-lite units across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, serving both Filipinos and non-Filipinos.
BOHOL LIGHT celebrates Christmas with Bohol Media
Bohol Light, the power distribution utility in Tagbilaran, took time off to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
This time, the celebration had media personalities as guests during the Illuminating Connections of Bohol Light Media Night.
The celebration was held on December 10, 2025, at the Panda Tea Garden Suites’ Rosets Dome.
Bohol Light gave back to its partners in providing service to Tagbilaranons with the fabulous event marked with prizes and holiday cheers.
Engr. Raul Venerando M. Galano of Bohol Light welcomed the guests, followed by the statement of purpose by Engr. Paulino G. Almedilla.
This was followed by a video presentation of Bohol Light events and highlights.
There were intermission numbers and also a raffle draw with a message coming from dyTR general manager Evangeline Buma-at.
Other speakers included Ardy Ines Araneta-Batoy and Gloria Leodivica Ines Araneta of THE BOHOL TRIBUNE and Ric Obedencio of BTMA.
There were also intermission performances from the different media outlets.
Bohol Light is part of Primelectric Holdings Inc., a company which has controlling stakes in other distribution utilities in Iloilo and in Negros Occidental.
Boholano cultural guru presents programs to preserve heritage and nature
Leading Boholano cultural enthusiast Lutgardo Labad presented programs aimed at preserving, conserving, and celebrating Bohol’s culture and nature during the Dec. 12, 2025 episode of Newsmakers ug Uban Pa, hosted by Carl Hinlo and John Louie Bugahod of Kabataan for Change (KFC).
Labad mentioned that heritage is taking center stage through Bol-anong Kabilin Atong Gibahandi (BOKAG), an initiative that restores and revitalizes communities using cultural assets.
BOKAG was launched in 2013, following the massive earthquake in Bohol, and symbolizes Boholano values such as strength and creativity, referencing a native basket.
The program offers an alternative eco-tourism destination by showcasing performances by local communities.
Labad also discussed Hudyaka sa Abatan, a program that celebrates the culture and nature of Abatan River, which spans several towns in Bohol, including Cortes, Maribojoc, Balilihan, Antequera, and Catigbian.
He stated that he helped train cultural performers and has gained the support of the said towns to sustain the programs.
Hudyaka sa Abatan 2 is the follow-up to Hudyaka sa Abatan 1, which was held in 2019, and was delayed due to the pandemic.
The new Hudyaka presents stories of the river, which represents a cluster of different geosites and reflects the image of Bohol as the Philippines’ first geopark.
The concept of the geopark is to conserve and preserve Boholano natural resources, as nature is closely related to culture.
The program is a retelling of the stories, and the areas are related to the sweeping beauty of Bohol.
The Hudyaka was held from Dec. 12, 2025 until today at the Abatan River Theater Space in Cortes town, and featured a performance called Aninipot sa Abatan or Firefly in Abatan, which showcases the culture and nature of Abatan River.
MBDC presents vintage Christmas
The Mt. Banat-i Development Corp. (MBDC) is set to host a night to remember as it brings together its companies for a Christmas celebration.
The event is scheduled to take place at the Cristal e-College (Ce-C) covered court on Dec. 20, 2025.
The evening’s festivities will kick off with a warm welcome from Dr. Will Tyron B. Tirol, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at MBDC, followed by a sumptuous dinner.
A highlight of the event is the BRINGING CHRISTMAS LIFE with live Christmas Music Video Production Contest, which will feature a range of Christmas presentations from various departments of CeC, including the support personnel, president’s office, finance, and academic support.
The event will also showcase performances from Cristal V Finance Corp., Cristal Enterprises, and MBDC, as well as special performances from Bohol Tribune and Universal Press.
In addition to the contest, the event will honor the MBDC Years of Service Awardees for 2025, followed by a raffle draw.
Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III, President of MBDC, will deliver a Christmas message, after which the evening will culminate in a unity dance and the awarding of prizes to the winners of the best presentation and Head Turner of the Night.
The event will be hosted by Roy B. Bago and Marivic M. Solijon.
The winners of the contest will receive the following cash prizes:
– 1st Place: P7,000
– 2nd Place: P5,000
– 3rd Place: P3,000
– Consolation Prize: P1,000
Primelectric visits South Korea to secure supply chain
A delegation from Primelectric Holdings Inc. (PHI) led by President and CEO Roel Castro visited South Korea during the first week of December 2025.
The visit was part of a strategic initiative to secure their supply chain and bolster infrastructure development across the Philippines.
The delegation toured the manufacturing facilities of Taeyoung Electric Co., Ltd., a key supplier of critical electrical equipment like transformers and switchgear for Primelectric’s utilities, which includes MORE Power in Iloilo, Negros Power, and Bohol Light.
During the tour, the delegation was able to witness the entire manufacturing process firsthand, from raw materials to final testing, ensuring quality and reliability.
The visit aimed to align on a vision for technological excellence and durability to meet the growing demands of the Philippine market.
Moreover, the event was meant to reinforce their long-term partnership, which includes Taeyoung Electric’s investment in a new manufacturing plant in Ansan, South Korea, scheduled to open in April 2026 to meet Primelectric’s expansion needs.
This direct engagement with a high-caliber technical partner is a key part of Primelectric’s strategy to modernize and expand power distribution networks in the Philippines.
Taeyoung was established in 1969 and has been known as a significant player in huge electrical projects, such as the production of power plants, semiconductor facilities, and related infrastructure in South Korea.
Bohol provincial board urges congress to pass chocolate hills bill
The Bohol Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) urged Congress to pass the bill defining the limits on the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument (CHNM) on December 9, 2025.
The SP expressed support for the immediate passage of House Bill No. 831 that strengthens and clarifies the coverage of CHNM.
This comes as some establishments within the Chocolate Hills Heritage Management (CHHM) especially in the towns of Batuan, Carmen, Sagbayan, and Bilar were issued with notices of violation by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Area System (ENIPAS) Act.
The establishments within the CHNM protected area need to secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), which has been proven to be a challenge.
The whole issue came into light when it was discovered that a resort known as Captain’s Peak was erected near the foot of a Chocolate Hill in Sagbayan town, gaining national attention and even reaching Congress, with some local and national officials getting suspended, including current Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado.
House Bill No. 831 is sponsored by Rep. Kristine Alexie Tutor and supported by Rep. Maria Vanessa Aumentado, which seeks to clearly define the coverage of the CHNM, as well as amendments on the composition of the CHNM Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) to make management more efficient and inclusive, and to allocate funds for the implementation of programs for the protection of natural treasures and to follow the ENIPAS law.
The SP resolution stated that the Chocolate Hills is an iconic and unique heritage site, and the bill is an important piece of legislation to protect CHNM from destruction and to set proper use and care.
The SP hopes that Congress will pass the bill to get the long-awaited reforms for better protection of CHNM, a natural treasure of Bohol and the country.
Bohol’s Asin Tibuok featured at UNESCO Intergov’t confab
Bohol’s Asin Tibuok was featured at the Intergovernmental Committee held in New Delhi, India from December 8 to 13, 2025.
The traditional Philippine practice of making Asin Tibuok has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) List in Need of Urgent Safeguarding during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee.
The Intergovernmental Committee is an international body, and India is hosting its current session at the historic Red Fort.
Asin Tibuok is an artisanal sea salt produced in Bohol, Philippines, known for its unique smoky, fruity flavor and a labor-intensive, pre-Hispanic production process.
Inscription in the Urgent Safeguarding List highlights that the tradition is endangered due to a lack of practitioners, the rise of modern technology, and a decline in youth interest.
The nomination was a collaborative effort by various Philippine government agencies, including the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the National Museum of the Philippines, in partnership with local community groups.
This marks the first time a traditional Philippine food process has been included in a UNESCO ICH list.
The Asin Tibuok is primarily made by Boholanos from Albur, and the nomination seeks to preserve the heritage and the traditional process of salt making unique to Bohol.
Wanted persons arrested in Tagbilaran and Batuan
A wanted person at the regional level was arrested by a joint team from the Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) and the Bohol police on December 9, 2025, in Barangay Taloto.
In a separate operation, a farmer accused of statutory rape was also arrested in Batuan on the same day.
The suspect arrested in Tagbilaran is accused of three counts of alleged violation of Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC).
The suspect was identified as Marcelino Bulacoy, 59, of Barangay Taloto, Tagbilaran City.
The composite team was supervised by Col. Patricio Degay Jr. Th team arrested the suspect through the Oplan Tracker team led by Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober, chief of the TCPS, with the help of other police units.
The suspect was arrested based on an arrest warrant issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 3.
The bail was set at P180,000 for the suspect’s provisional liberty.
Loboc to build detour road in Valladolid
The local government unit (LGU) of Loboc is planning to build a temporary detour road at Barangay Valladolid after the riprap on the side of the road in Purok 1 was torn apart on Dec. 4, 2025.
Mayor Raymond Jala on Dec. 8, 2025 said the lot owner already agreed to a plan to build a detour road to allow vehicles to pass.
The Loboc engineering office is tasked to build the detour road as the LGU awaits the repair of the riprap that got busted.
Jala said he will be asking the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) as the LGU has no financial capability to repair the damaged part of the flood control infrastructure.
The mayor said the riprap was damaged following the fall of some lumber after the soil softened following the incessant rains that took place last week as tropical depression Wilma was approaching land. Jala said the flood control infrastructure was completed in 2015 under the KALAHI-CIDSS program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
This means, the project is not from the DPWH and a project of Cong. Kristine Alexie Tutor in contrast to the fake news circulated on social media.
Valladolid Barangay Captain Pedro Acuña said the damaged riprap had a length of 30 meters and a depth of five meters.
Meanwhile, the DPWH responded to the damaged riprap in Valladolid.
It said the project that was damaged was not under its jurisdiction.
Even if it is not under its management, the DPWH dispatched a team to assess the situation and to help the LGU to help mitigate or place measures to prevent further damage to the flood control.
CTG members surrender in Bohol
Two regular members of the communist-terrorist group (CTG) surrendered to authorities on Dec. 9, 2025 in Barangay Bongbong, Trinidad.
They are members of Sandatahang Yunit Platoon, Guerilla Zone Preparation of Bohol Party Committee.
Other surrenderies were three mass supporters under the Humabol-Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP).
The surrender was made possible through the coordination of the Bohol Police Provincial Office under the leadership of Col. Patricio Degay Jr.
The former CTG members approached the police and laid down two 9mm caliber pistols, two magazines, and nine rounds of live ammunition.
The Bohol Forensic Unit took possession of the firearms for proper disposition and processing.
The former rebels said the whole-of-nation approach has helped a lot.
This approach is made possible via Executive Order No. 70 establishing the National Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), with the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).
These programs assured them of support as they returned to the folds of the law.
Degay said the surrender of CTG members is a monumental victory for the province as each rebel surrender only boosts the peace and order situation in the province.
HIV cases rise in Bohol
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) said almost all localities in Bohol have at least one case of human immunodeficiency/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS).
PHO OIC Dr. Fruserma Mary Uy said most of the cases are in Ubay, Panglao and Tagbilaran City.
Uy said it is not possible to publicly release the names of those infected with HIV/AIDS.
As cases of HIV/AIDS continued to increase in Bohol, health care officials said loyalty to a sexual partner is the best way to avoid infection.
She said most of the transmission is through male-to-male sexual relations, and then male-to-multiple partners of the opposite sex, and males who engage in relations with both male and female partners.
The cumulative total of cases in Bohol is about 882 cases since 1984.
She said the rise in the number of cases is alarming as 87 cases were logged from June 2025 up to the present or a period spanning six months.
She urged those who are at risk to submit themselves to HIV test as this is free. This is to curb the spread of the virus.
There are medications available when HIV/AIDS is detected early.
Meanwhile, candidates of Queen of Bohol 2025 showed their support to the measure curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS during the celebration of World AIDS Day on Dec. 9, 2025.
The event was held at a local restaurant in Tagbilaran City.
The candidates said they choose to be aware about the disease and to advocate the spread of the correct information about the disease.
They support forming a community filled with kindness and support.
They will urge people to be more aware of the disease knowing this has a significant effect on society.
The candidates also expressed support to those affected with HIV/AIDS.
They want to fight the stigma by spreading truth and by expressing kindness and also protecting rights related to health and dignity.
The candidates thanked the City Health Office for organizing the program for them.
The group urged those at risk to have themselves tested, informed, fight the stigma and save lives.
Bohol solons back house speaker
Two Bohol congresspersons, who are members of the Visayas bloc, expressed support for House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III amid the issue of corruption related to flood control projects.
The manifesto of support was signed by Second District Rep. Maria Vanessa Aumentado and Third District Rep. Kristine Alexie Tutor.
First District Rep. John Geesnell Yap II was visibly absent on the manifesto but he orally expressed his support for Speaker Dy.
He said he was about to sign the manifesto but the document was already released to the public.
The manifesto called for moral leadership, real reforms, to gain the public’s trust.
The manifesto also called for the House of Representatives to initiate an institutional reforms, accountability, and transparency.
Real leadership should come with a flawless record, and a fearless campaign against any corrupt practice.
The manifesto called for moral recovery within Congress, that accountability is not optional, without favor and favoritism.
Dy has been initiating steps to boost transparency and reforms.
The House needs to recover its moral compass, to regain credibility and serve the people with integrity.
Alturas group of companies spreads holiday cheer
The Alturas Group of Companies (AGC) has lined up a series of activities to celebrate the Christmas season.
Ariel Fullido announced the activities on Dec. 9, 2025.
As part of the celebration, Island City Mall has prepared several promos for its valued customers.
The mall recently hosted the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Holiday Bazaar in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The bazaar, which ended on Dec. 7, 2025 at the Activity Center, featured locally produced goods and products.
Many visitors were amazed to find out that some of the products were made by Boholanos.
The bazaar also showcased Christmas decors made by persons deprived of liberty.
This holiday season, kids and kids-at-heart can meet Santa Claus on Dec. 15, 2025, at the mall.
Santa will be available for visits at specific times until the end of the month.
Other activities lined up include a Christmas choir competition on Dec. 21, 2025, which is open to all choirs in Bohol.
This is the first time the competition is being held.
On Christmas Day, a pop singing contest featuring pop Christmas songs will be held.
In addition, the mall will offer sale promos among its tenants, along with basket giveaways.
A Christmas sale will also take place from Dec. 18 to 20, 2025, at the Island City Mall, where items will be marked down by up to 50 percent.
Shoppers can easily find great bargains during this time.
The Home and Fashion, as well as participating tenant shops, will also offer discounts.
Wilma spares Bohol, says PDRRMC
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) said that tropical depression Wilma had no direct effect on Bohol.
This comes as some areas in Bohol were placed under wind signal no. 1 as Wilma moved inland on December 5 and 6, 2025.
PDRRM officer Anthony Damalerio said no damage was reported as Wilma brought heavy rains.
Despite the effects of Wilma, some local government units initiated pre-emptive evacuations to keep the people safe, especially those living in high-risk areas.
About 1,538 families or about 4,888 individuals were evacuated from 16 towns in Bohol.
The pre-emptive evacuations were conducted in the towns of Antequera, Calape, Corella, Cortes, Loon, Maribojoc, and Tubigon in the first district.
Evacuations were also conducted in the second district towns of Bien Unido, Clarin, Inabanga, and President Carlos P. Garcia.
Moreover, in the third district, evacuations were done in the towns of Candijay, Carmen, Garcia Hernandez, Jagna, and Mabini.
The PDRRM council said the fast coordination and swift action of local government units made communities safe, even though the tropical depression caused some rains in Bohol.
Wilma is the fourth weather disturbance that affected Bohol, following Tino, Uwan, and Verbena, which caused a lot of rains, floods, and even landslides.
Panglao awaits test results on sardine deaths
The local government unit (LGU) of Panglao is awaiting the test results that will help determine the reason for the massive fish kill of sardines at Barangay Tangnan.
The municipal environment and natural resources officer, Abel Arbilo, said that the results of the laboratory tests might be delayed in checking the fish and sea water that may help provide clues on the fishkill.
To recall, a fishkill happened on December 1 and 2, 2025, according to Arbilo.
He was told by a representative from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) that the samples were sent to the national office to help determine the reason behind the fish kill.
Arbilo said his office awaits the result by December 15, 2025, which was the promise of the BFAR when the results will be released.
There have been no fish kills seen at the waters of Barangay Tangnan after the fish kill was discovered.
The area is a known diving site where sardines are seen moving in schools.
The locals are anxious about the reason behind the fish kill, and thus the LGU sought the help of the BFAR to determine the reason behind the fish kill.
Panglao awaits test results on sardine deaths
The local government unit (LGU) of Panglao is awaiting the test results that will help determine the reason for the massive fish kill of sardines at Barangay Tangnan.
The municipal environment and natural resources officer, Abel Arbilo, said that the results of the laboratory tests might be delayed in checking the fish and sea water that may help provide clues on the fishkill.
To recall, a fishkill happened on December 1 and 2, 2025, according to Arbilo.
He was told by a representative from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) that the samples were sent to the national office to help determine the reason behind the fish kill.
Arbilo said his office awaits the result by December 15, 2025, which was the promise of the BFAR when the results will be released.
There have been no fish kills seen at the waters of Barangay Tangnan after the fish kill was discovered.
The area is a known diving site where sardines are seen moving in schools.
The locals are anxious about the reason behind the fish kill, and thus the LGU sought the help of the BFAR to determine the reason behind the fish kill.
Tagbilaran holds Christmas tree lighting event
The city government of Tagbilaran held its Christmas tree lighting event on December 8, 2025 together with
the opening of the Tagbilaran Christmas bazaar at the City Hall grounds.
Mayor Jane Yap, Vice Mayor Adam Jala, Cong. John Geesnell Yap II, and members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod attended the event, as well as the department heads of the city government.
The event also included a blessing of the nativity scene inside City Hall, including the lighting of the decors in the City Hall building, the decors at the City Hall park, and the grounds.
The Christmas lanterns we’re also lit up and are placed in the main thoroughfares in the city.
The city government thanked the private sector and other sponsors who helped in the installation of the lights and decors at the City Hall.
It has become an annual tradition in Tagbilaran to have an event lighting the Christmas decor installed at City Hall.
The decor, by tradition, will be displayed until the end of the holidays, as people from all over witness the these displayed at the City Hall as a way to spread Christmas cheers to all Tagbilaranons.
Roadside damage in Loboc village affects tourist structure, lumber
Pieces of lumber were swept away in the river, including the structure at the receiving area for tourists who want to engage in water sports activities, after the soil where the structure sits was damaged, sustaining fissures at the side of the road in Barangay Valladolid, Loboc in the morning of December 4, 2025.
According to Valladolid Barangay Captain Pedro Acuña, he received reports that there were fissures along the side of the road near where the lumber sits in Purok 1.
He then asked the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management to take a look at the area.
The barangay agreed to cut down the trees, but nature had other plans and swept the lumber into the river, reports said.
There are 17 homes in Purok 1, living near the river, and the said barangay is among the low-lying villages of Loboc and normally the first one to experience flooding when there is torrential rain.
Aside from kayaking and other water sports activities, there are also some hotel resorts in the area, and selling nipa is a leading economic driver.
This was not the first time the roadside was damaged, as it also happened almost four years ago at the height of Typhoon Odette.
The area hosts the only road, as plenty of heavy equipment traverses the said road, plus the road is busy transporting tourists checking into the resorts in the area.
Insurgency threat declines in Catigbian
The insurgency threat in Catigbian has declined.
Executive Master Sergeant Nestor Oracion and Chief Master Sergeant Klaire May Soreño from the Catigbian police station were the guests on December 4, 2025, over Open Forum.
Soreño said that in the past, she heard that Catigbian used to be a hotbed for insurgency.
She said that she has been assigned in Catigbian for over a decade and has not encountered any problem related to insurgency.
Catigbian used to be a lair of the communist-terrorist groups in the past, given its terrain and distance from urban centers.
Oracion said he was assigned in Balilihan during the height of the insurgency problem and experienced encountering insurgents as he helped in setting up blocking checkpoints, as it is not necessary for the police to directly engage with the rebels in a firefight.
He said that as humans, they feel sad when they hear about fellow police officers falling in the line of duty.
The police officers are just motivated to keep the peace and order, but losing one’s life is a bitter part of police life.
He said he relies on Divine guidance to keep them safe and protect them from disasters and guide them in their police work.
There is always a risk in doing police work, he said, and Soreño agreed.
Soreño said that it is painful for the police to hear that some of their colleagues engage in criminal activity.
She said she has heard some cops become rogues and become criminals.
It is ironic that the police are the ones fighting crimes, yet there are some police officers becoming criminals themselves.
Oracion denied allegations that police officers have so-called quotas and they operate because it has been verified a suspect is involved in the drug trade, and they are not arresting people to shore up statistics.
He said one of the factors for drug trade is the lack of livelihood, and he hopes they can be guided and get proper livelihood and stay away from drugs.
Police, he said, are ready to support any initiative to curb drug trade and use in Bohol.
Oracion said that in Bohol, there are no big personalities involved in drugs.
He said the source of the drug supply is other provinces, and drugs are not made here.
He said greed pushed people to involve themselves in illegal acts.
Oracion said that there is corruption in government, but the vast majority are working honestly and with integrity.
He believes most of the officials in Bohol are trying to make the province prosperous.
Oracion said that public speaking has become part of police work, and almost all of the police personnel are engaged in public speaking.
He said his weakness in the past is public speaking, and now he has overcome the fear of public speaking.
He motivated himself since public speaking is part of a police officer’s job, and he told himself to conquer his fears.
He said everyone in the police force is ready to fight crime, as Soreño said they are ready to perform their sworn duty.
Soreño said she is lucky that Catigbian is relatively peaceful.