Domestic tourism thrives in the philippines during holiday season
Domestic tourism surged during the past holiday season, with Bohol among the beneficiaries of the surge.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) reported that domestic tourism increased during the holiday season, showing that domestic tourists remain interested in exploring more places in the Philippines.
Based on data, Boracay received the most visitors during the period, with 118,745 tourists from Dec. 15 to 28, 2025.
Huge cruise ships also docked in the country, bringing thousands of tourists and creating more tourist activities in Boracay Island.
Baguio City ranked second in the most visited areas, attracting 117,137 visitors from Dec. 15 to 31, 2025, due to its cool climate.
Despite challenges, Cebu City attracted 102,124 visitors, while Panglao Island came in fourth, drawing 62,240 tourists during the same period.
Tourism generated indicates the continued commitment of tourists to these areas, including Panglao Island, which are major tourism spots in the country.
Bohol’s tourist arrivals show the province remains a favorite destination among domestic tourists, offering various attractions like beaches, Chocolate Hills, heritage churches, and eco-tourism sites.
City SP approves over 300 measures in 2025
The Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) of Tagbilaran reported that its members approved 389 resolutions supporting programs and initiatives for healthcare, education, livelihood, peace and order, and community affairs.
This achievement was highlighted in the SP’s year-end report, showcasing the council’s active and robust legislative performance in 2025.
The performance demonstrated the council’s commitment to responsive and participatory governance of the local government unit.
In 2025, 41 ordinances were also forged, aiming to strengthen local policies, public service, and sustainable development.
The city SP completed 358 committee reports, indicating robust legislative work, and acted on 378 legislative referrals.
To ensure transparency and people’s participation, the council held 144 committee meetings and nine public hearings.
Vice Mayor Adam Jala stated that these achievements reflect the council’s dedication to official public service.
The City SP remains committed to creating policies that drive community development and improve residents’ quality of life .
BFP-7 holds New Year’s call in Bohol
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Region 7 held its traditional New Year’s Call on January 5, 2026, at the Bohol Tropics Resort in Tagbilaran City.
This event marked the first time the regional New Year’s Call was hosted in the province of Bohol.
The event was led by Fire Chief Supt. Fred Trajeras Jr., the regional director of BFP 7.
Various BFP officials, including the Command Group and fire marshals, attended along with local chief executives and representatives from Bohol.
Trajeras mentioned in his message the achievements of the agency as well as reforms and direction of BFP 7 that was forged through discipline and dedication by personnel including innovations and higher quality of public service.
Vice Gov. Nicanor Besas attended the event, representing Gov. Aris Aumentado, as well as Tagbilaran councilor Fausto Budlong, representing Mayor Jane Yap, and representatives from congressional districts as well as some mayors led by League of Municipalities of the Philippines vice president Hilario Ayuban of Loay.
The event was also attended by the command staff, city and provincial directors, as well as municipal fire marshals from various towns in Central Visayas.
As of the moment, there are more than 2,000 personnel in BFP 7 manning the 101 fire stations in Cebu and Bohol.
Trajeras highlighted the activation of the special response unit in Bohol, the solid inter-regional response to calamities such as the earthquake in northern Cebu and typhoon Tino, and the launch of the unified 911 emergency system in Central Visayas.
The draw lots recruitment system was also highlighted, where 136 fire officer applicants were chosen based on merit and transparency.
In Bohol, 10 new fire stations are eyed to be built.
The BFP is reviewing the implementation of the fire code, digitalization, and community outreach.
The BFP aims to improve collection of fire code fees to be used in funding for modernization, upgrade of the BFP 7 regional headquarters, and establishment of a satellite office of the BFP 7 in Bohol.
Meanwhile, the BFP 7 inaugurated the dental clinic at the Tagbilaran City Fire Station.
The event also coincided with the oathtaking of 136 newly-promoted non-commissioned officers.
Trajeras led the activities, along with Bohol fire marshal Raul Bustaliño and City Fire Marshal Constancia June Agustin .
Swedish ambassador visits Bohol to boost economic ties
The Swedish envoy to the Philippines visited Bohol on Jan. 5, 2025, and discussed economic development and local cooperation.
Capitol officials welcomed Ambassador Anna Ferry with her husband and Jay Bernaldez of MKLA-Cooperative.
Ferry was welcomed by Vice Gov. Nicanor Besas, Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, Board Member Lucille Lagunay, Provincial Tourism Officer OIC Joanne Pinat, Investment Promotions Head Ma. Fe Dominese, and executive assistant Nunila Pinat.
Reports said Ferry’s visit aims to explore local industries, particularly coconut oil and dairy, and strengthen diplomatic and business partnerships.
The visit also highlights Bohol’s growing international engagement, especially as the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, and prepares for the 80th anniversary of Sweden-Philippines diplomatic relations in 2027.
In the past, Bohol played host to visiting envoys like the one from the Russian Federation.
Bohol has been attracting foreign attention as it has become a byword in tourism and economic development .
PBBM signs 2026 budget, Bohol looks forward to changes
Some Boholanos look forward to changes as President Marcos Jr. signed on Jan. 5, 2026, the General Appropriations Act for 2026.
The law forms the budget for the national government implementing various programs.
The budget earmarks funding for projects including districts in Bohol, particularly the first district.
Reports said the budget will implement projects that are focused on the barangays, aiming to directly address the needs at the grassroot level.
Reports added that the new GAA features no flood control project funds for district one, however, there are budgets for other infrastructure projects such as the third bridge connecting Tagbilaran and Panglao.
Other projects include the building of fire stations, covered courts, and drainage systems.
Also included are skywalks, public markets, school buildings, and roads, as well as barangay halls, evacuation centers, installation of street lights, and building of camps for the Philippine Army.
Boholanos are looking at a budget that is spent judiciously and the spending will be transparent.
Banned Moves:
Malacañang announced that certain actions are no longer allowed in the new GAA.
Politicians are no longer allowed to participate in the distribution of any financial aid.
The Palace said this is the first time that the GAA featured a “safeguard” that has been baked into the GAA as a provision.
Executive Sec. Ralph Recto said a provision in Republic Act No. 12314 provided the prohibition that the government aims to implement.
Recto added this is a novel provision unique to the 2026 budget.
President Marcos Jr. wanted to implement the said provision as he signed the P6.7 trillion budget.
Marcos Jr. sees the provision as a way to end political patronage and directly give aid to those in need.
Thus, politicians are no longer allowed to be involved in key aid programs such as the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating mga Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers, or the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, among others.
Also included are cash grants and pensions for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
In the past, politicians were involved in the distribution of such aid and have drawn criticisms of political patronage or using the aid for political influence.
The President said the new budget strengthens the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) aimed at helping local government units address development needs, livelihood, and strong, resilient communities.
Malacañang sees the provision as a way to ensure transparency, justice, and integrity in providing aid to the people, especially those in need.
Former PDL arrested in Dauis buy bust operation
A former person deprived of liberty (PDL) was arrested following a buy bust operation by Dauis drug enforcement unit on Jan. 7, 2026 at barangay Bingag.
The suspect is identified as Jason Ian Arbitrario, 43, of barangay Lourdes, Panglao.
The team led by Capt. Dennis Siragon conducted a sting operation against the suspect, witnessed by barangay officials and the media.
The suspect was arrested after engaging with a poseur buyer worth P500.
Taken from the suspect were packets of alleged shabu weighing 8.9 grams valued at P60,520.
The operation came after an event in Panglao where alleged shabu were seized on Dec. 6, 2025 at barangay Bolod.
The police managed to seize from alias Quiong packets of alleged shabu and was arrested by police from Panglao.
The suspects are now facing charges of violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Bohol struggles to stop shabu influx due to porous borders
Authorities admit that it is pretty difficult to prevent the entry of shabu into Bohol as the province is porous, with several possible entry points.
The sad part is that the police are unable to stand guard in all entry points in the province.
Bohol police spokesman Maj. Rey Olar said that it is impossible to stop the entry of shabu into Bohol as the province is an island and the police can’t simply stand guard in all coasts and shores of the province.
He said drug shipments don’t pass commercial ports as the latest huge stash of over 10 kilos were transported into Bohol via a banca.
The lack of checkpoints makes it easy for couriers to deliver drugs into Bohol.
Olar said an unguarded area in Buenavista was the entry point of the drugs seized on Jan. 6, 2026 in barangay Dampas.
The stash did not pass the ordinary seaports making it difficult for the police to intercept.
Despite the challenges, the BPPO has boosted its intelligence-driven operations as they coordinate with the community and other law enforcement agencies to prevent entry and distribution of illegal drugs in Bohol.
The success of the operation shows their intelligence is working and will continue the campaign against illegal drugs.
Parish priest Fr. Marcelo Operiano Jr. hurdles 2025 bar examinations
The Diocese of Tagbilaran announced that Fr. Marcelo Operiano Jr., the parish priest of Holy Cross Parish in Maribojoc, was able to successfully hurdle the 2025 Bar Examinations.
Fr. Jun, finished Law at Holy Name University, and proved that law and vocation can go together.
In a statement, the Tagbilaran diocese said that the achievement of the prelate is a huge one not just for Operiano but for the Church and the society that he serves.
The diocese added that the achievement is a blessing not only for the priest as his legal formation will strengthen his pastoral ministry as he promotes justice and protects the rights.
Several Boholanos showed their elation to the achievement of Fr. Jun, who is known as an example of dedication, focus, and truthful service to the people.
Fr. Jun is among the 32 students from HNU who passed the 2025 Bar Examinations.
Other Boholanos who passed the Bar Examinations included 10 from BIT-International College, and four from University of Bohol.
Other Boholano passers came from schools outside Bohol such as University of San Carlos, University of Cebu among others.
Several police officers were also Bar examination passers as well as fire officers.
The Supreme Court said that out of 11,420 who took the examinations, only 5,594 or 48.9 percent passed the 2025 Bar examinations where the graduate from University of the Philippines is the topnotcher.
Bohol’s drug-cleared barangays reach 69.61 percent
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) reported that about 69.61 percent of Bohol barangays are considered drug cleared.
This was revealed in a meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) back in December 2025.
The PDEA said out of 1,109 Bohol barangays, 771 barangays were declared drug cleared and thus only 354 barangays left to be cleared of drugs in Bohol.
This is the goal for 2026 of the combined agencies including the PDEA, Philippine National Police and the Department of Justice, among others.
The Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing is the one providing the policies used to determine if a barangay is drug-cleared.
The parameters include documentary evidence, programs implemented and other guidelines.
No flood control budget for 1st district, says Yap
The 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) features no budget for flood control projects, according to First District Rep. John Geesnell Yap II.
Despite the lack of budget for flood control in the said district, he fought to include budget for drainage systems in all road projects in the district.
Flood control budget has been slashed in the 2026 budget following alleged anomalies surfacing related to the implementation of the said projects.
Yap pushed for more drainage systems in road projects to address flooding, especially in flood-prone areas.
Yap said the rapid development of commercial centers, subdivisions, and industrial zones in the first district necessitates better drainage systems.
Among the solon’s priorities is completing the Peñaflor street project, a legacy of former Cong. Edgar Chatto in Tagbilaran City.
The project budget was removed in the final version of the national budget, including the over P100 million allocation for Peñaflor street.
The project was initially included in the P4.2 billion allocation in the National Expenditure Program.
He said a small budget remains to continue building drainage systems, including Peñaflor street.
He vowed to fund the street construction’s completion so motorists can use the road within this year, reducing public inconvenience.
The drainage system in Songculan, Dauis, gained some budget as the area is flood-prone.
Yap admitted the removal of several flood control line items affected flood-prone roads in Cortes, Antequera, Tubigon, and Panglao.
Yap also acknowledges the need to repair some first district bridges still off-limits to large vehicles.
Two drug pushers nabbed in separate sting operations
Two drug suspects were arrested in separate drug buy-bust operations on Jan. 6, 2026, in separate incidents in Carmen and Sagbayan.
The arrests resulted in the seizure of P46,000 worth of alleged shabu.
In Tambo-an, Carmen, the municipal drug enforcement team led by Maj. Robert Lucerna arrested Arnaldo Hermogenes Jr., 33, of barangay La Paz, Carmen.
Taken from him were 3.7 grams of alleged shabu worth P25,466.
Meanwhile, in Sagbayan Sur, the municipal drug enforcement team led by Capt. Eric Binangbang arrested Alfie Abellana, 29, of barangay San Agustin.
Seized from him were 3.8 grams of alleged shabu worth P20,944.
The suspects now face charges of violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
Politicians’ Credit Grabbing: A Call for Youth Awareness
Kabataan for Change (KFC) stalwarts pointed out how politicians grab credit when they don’t deserve it.
KFC stalwarts Carl Hinlo, BJay Baquero and Ivy Betalmos on Jan. 9, 2026 together with Ardy Araneta Batoy discussed how politics skew reality and the people should be wary of how things are being manipulated.
The issue stems on how politicians grab credit for projects funded by people’s money.
At times, politicians claim credit for projects, which are funded by taxpayers.
Hinlo pointed out that these politicians are paid by the people to serve and the people are not obligated to thank politicians for doing the work they are paid for.
Betalmos pointed that the politicians make it appear they are heaven-sentwhen they are merely doing the jobs expected of them.
The group
said there are times when politicians grab credit when another politician was the one who planted the seeds to make the project a reality.
Politicians have this inclination to take credit when it favors the sad politician. But when things go wrong, the politician will find a scapegoat and disassociate himself with the project that has gone awry, said Baquero.
KFC advises the youth to wake up and smell the roses, and realize that there are politicians who can manipulate the youth’s minds.
They suggested that the youth should be more aware researching and checking facts about what is happening around us.
Hinlo said the youth must initiate reforms as the youth needs to be engaged with the issues that affect society.
Hinlo said it is high time to change the tradition of vote buying during elections.
EXPANSION
Hinlo also said the KFC has plans to reach out to other youths and make them more socially aware.
He said KFC is campaigning against vote buying and vote selling.
This way, the youth will realize the need for change.
There will be training programs for the youth as they become more interested in joining the KFC platform.
CRITICISMS
Politicians should embrace criticisms as part of being a public servant.
Politicians need to realize that being criticized is part of serving the people.
Baquero said the people are now aware of the issues in politics especially when a politician gains more wealth and may not be able to fully explain such abundance.
The youth should voice out when there is a need to speak their minds when it comes to issues affecting society and even in governance.
People should realize if a politician is a fit to lead and not just because he or she is popular.
Bohol police score big in anti-crime drive under Degay’s leadership
About P65 million worth of alleged shabu were seized within the almost four months of service of police superintendent Col. Patricio Degay Jr. with 342 drug suspects arrested.
The BPPO, under Degay, managed to curb crimes through coordinated and community-focused leadership.
Degay assumed office on Sept. 19, 2025 and data until Dec. 31, 2025 state that the BPPO launched several operations across Bohol and resulted in successful campaigns against various crime activities.
In illegal drugs, 316 anti-drug operations where 9.5 kilos of illegal drugs known as shabu were seized worth P65.6 million.
The operations proved to be a huge blow against the drug trade here in Bohol.
In loose firearms, 111 operations were launched and 204 firearms were voluntarily surrendered and 35 persons were arrested for possessing firearms without license.
About 121 ordinary wanted persons were arrested and 89 most wanted persons were arrested, too.
In illegal gambling, 104 operations were launched leading to the arrest of 154 individuals. Seized were P19,396 bet money.
Degay vowed that in 2026 the police will intensify their campaign against criminality, expand partnership with the community, and use innovative policing to stop the threats to peace and order.
He added that each operation brings a clear message that crime has no place in Bohol making the province much more peaceful than before.
Motorists cry foul over ‘unsafe’ Campagao road in Bilar, Bohol
Motorists raised complaints about the alleged “unsafe” road in barangay Campagao, Bilar.
The road has remained dangerous to motorists as the pathway’s construction has been allegedly delayed.
The road has posed risks to public safety, according to reports.
A motorist who requested to remain anonymous said those who use the road are facing risks of figuring in an accident.
One instance of danger happened when a vehicle nearly figured in an accident as it was travelling to transport a patient to the hospital.
Allegedly, there is a lack of early warning devices or any signage informing the public the risks of passing through the said road in Campagao.
Vehicles are exposed to danger especially during the rainy season as the area is flood-prone.
The floods add to the hassle or inconvenience among residents and commuters alike.
The work on the project remains suspended since November of 2025 as there are no workers seen near the site, and the construction has been halted and the road remains unsafe.
Motorists are calling on the authorities and the contractor to remedy the situation to avoid any possible negative repercussions that may result in injuries or worse loss of life.
DSWD resumes issuance of guarantee letters for medical, burial aid
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Jan. 5, 2026 resumed the issuance of guarantee letters (GLs) for medical and burial assistance.
The agency said qualified beneficiaries for Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) may receive assistance via GLs.
The GL can be used in availing medical or burial services despite the temporary suspension of direct cash assistance.
The DSWD temporarily suspended the release of cash assistance under AICS starting last Monday aligned with the current policies of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) as the funds are yet to be downloaded as the 2026 budget has just been signed by President Marcos Jr.
With the return of the release of GLs, individuals may ask for financial assistance from the nearest DSWD field office.
The complete list of office locations is published on the DSWD website as the agency urges the public to read only information posted on official websites, social media pages for further announcements and updates regarding the AICS program and all other programs in social protection.
Councilor flags unlicensed businesses at Tagbilaran seaport
Tagbilaran city councilor Fausto Budlong on Jan. 6, 2026 raised concerns over businesses operating at the seaport allegedly without the necessary business permits.
He raised his concern during Tuesday’s regular session of the Sangguniang Panglungsod.
Budlong said that there are motorcycle rental businesses operating without permits as well as some vendors near the seaport operating without the necessary permits from City Hall.
There are allegations that scalpers operate at the seaport selling overpriced tickets when the seacraft such as the OceanJet is fully booked.
Some scalpers also negotiate with passengers for vans bound for Tubigon, and the fare is allegedly overpriced.
The City Treasurer and the Business Permit and Licensing Office heads were summoned to shed light on this issue but they were unable to appear as they are busy with the one-stop business permitting activity at the City Hall.
City Legal Officer Cathy Jamila was the one that attended the session.
The said issue was referred to the Committees on Economic Enterprise and Peace and Order led by Coun. Tim Butalid and Budlong, respectively.
The goal is to strictly implement the ordinances against those businesses without permits especially the ones operating at Pook Pantalan.
Family of hit-and-run victim appeals for help amid mounting medical bills
The family of a hit-and-run victim is asking for financial help to cope with rising medical costs as the victim remains in stable condition in a hospital.
The victim, who figured in an accident in Loboc, is now facing financial difficulties in covering the medical expenses.
Juliana Ashley Mutia Diola, a student at Tagbilaran City College, was involved in an accident on Dec. 27, 2026, in barangay Agape.
As of Jan. 7, 2026, there has been no update from authorities about the incident and the suspect behind the hit-and-run incident.
The victim sustained a head trauma and fractures stemming from the accident.
The victim has been at the Intensive Care Unit for five days, and the family is seeking help to cope with the rising medical costs.
The victim can already be discharged, but the financial aspect remains a problem.
The public is urged to report any information to the police in relation to the incident.
Flu Cases Surge in the City Amidst Climate Change and Fireworks Season
Robin Culpa, spokesperson of the City Primary Care Facility (CPCF), said on Jan. 5, 2026, that health problems related to flu have surged of late.
He said this during his guest appearance over Newsmakers ug Uban Pa.
The change in climate has brought about more complaints about flu and slight fever.
More cases of issues on the upper respiratory tract have been noted, particularly infections on this part of the body.
Culpa noted that early mornings are colder than usual, and this may trigger some health issues.
It’s possible some people suffer from allergies brought by the use of fireworks.
He recommends the use of facemasks to prevent further spread of infection, as this is a way to practice self-care and care for others.
Common colds may surge if people get in contact with contaminated surfaces.
People with colds need to rest and drink lukewarm water with some kalamansi or lemon, as these may help relieve cold symptoms.
He also explained sinusitis as an inflammation of the sinuses.
The sinusitis may be infected with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or allergies.
The inflammation of the pharynx may result in pharyngitis, as laryngitis is also a problem of the upper respiratory tract.
He said tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils, and the remedy is to rest, drink more fluids, and gargle saltwater between three to six hours.
Saltwater is made by mixing a pinch of salt into lukewarm water, he said, as he also recommended taking pain relievers if the pain from tonsillitis is unbearable.
If symptoms persist, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to the patient.
According to health experts, the “super flu” or A(H3N2) subclade K case is “more aggressive because of mutations,” making the vaccine’s effectiveness lessened.
“Lawmakers Should Focus on Lawmaking, Not Pork Barrel Politics”: Hubahib
Lawyer Glen Hubahib believes that lawmakers should stick to their job description, which is to make laws.
He said legislators should not allocate funds for their pet projects.
For this reason, pork barrel has been deemed illegal.
He issued above statements during his guesting in the program OPEN FORUM on Monday, January 5, 2026.
He said the Constitution disallows budget allocation, which does not have a clear description and avoids discretion.
Lawmakers need to stick with lawmaking or oversight of executive function.
MONROE DOCTRINE
Hubahib pointed out on Jan. 5, 2026 to the Monroe Doctrine as the possible reason behind the conflicts happening in the Western Hemisphere.
Hubahib pointed this out during his guest appearance on Open Forum on Monday.
The Monroe Doctrine is a foundational principle of United States foreign policy that asserts American dominance over the Western Hemisphere and warns European powers against further colonization or intervention in the Americas.
The doctrine was in action during the term of President Bush Sr. when the US arrested Manuel Noriega, the president of Panama.
The US is interested with Panama and it has something to do with the control of the Panama Canal.
The US wants to control Venezuela, and some pundits say that the reason may be related to oil.
Venezuela controls nearly 18 percent of the world’s oil reserves and has more oil reserves than Saudi Arabia.
Venezuela also has close ties with China, Russia and Iran and other adversaries of the United States.
Early in January, the United States took the person of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro and his wife for allegations of drug trade . There is also accusation that Maduro is pushing to deliver illicit drugs from Venezuela to the United States.
Western companies used to do business in Venezuela until the oil industry was nationalized, he explained.
Tagbilaran City to get improved access to DCPNHS Cabawan campus
The local government unit (LGU) of Tagbilaran has started the concreting of the road to the Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School (DCPNHS) extension campus in Cabawan.
The LGU started phase 1 of the concreting of the road going to the said campus in barangay Cabawan.
Mayor Jane Yap said the project also will improve the path towards the facility of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, which is also located in the same barangay.
The construction officially started on Nov. 24, 2025 as a way to address the need for a better pathway for students and motorists alike.
It is expected that phase 1 will be completed by next month barring any weather disturbance.
The project is part of a larger road infrastructure program of the Yap-Jala administration to improve access to remote areas of Tagbilaran City.
The construction of the new road will reduce dust and mud, which remains to be a huge complaint of teachers and parents of students of the said school.
PARCCOM Bohol bolds polls for sectoral reps
The Provincial Agrarian Reform Coordinating Committee (PARCCOM) in Bohol held its elections on Jan. 6, 2025 as the event was a way to choose the sectoral representatives that will take sears in the said council.
The PARCCOM is the one that oversees the comprehensive agrarian reform program (CARP), activities across the province to ensure land distribution and support services reach beneficiaries.
The PARCCOM is created via Republic Act No. 6657, as the PARCCOM is also tasked to forge policies in relation to the CARP implementation in each province.
The new members of the PARCCOM
took their oaths before Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) provincial director Ronald Pumatong.
The PARCCOM also serves as a way to formulate inter-agency work programming.
It includes representatives from various sectors, ensuring that farmers, landowners, and indigenous groups have a voice in decision-making.
On January 6, 2025, PARCCOM elected new sectoral representatives for a six-year term to represent farmer organizations, cooperatives, NGOs, landowners and cultura minorities.
It frequently holds joint meetings with the Provincial CARP Implementing Team (PCIT) to align work between agencies.
Driver, passenger safe after vehicle falls into sea in lila, bohol
The driver and his passenger were safe after the vehicle they were on board accidentally fell into the sea in barangay Poblacion, Lila, around Jan. 6, 2026, in the evening.
Lila police said that the private van was traveling from Guindulman and headed to Tagbilaran City when the accident occurred at the poblacion area.
Allegedly, the driver drowsed off, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and go straight to the shoreline and fall into the sea.
The driver is a 55-year-old male; according to initial investigation, he drowsed off and as he woke up, he already lost control of the vehicle until the van fell into the sea.
The driver and the passenger were rushed to a nearby hospital and sustained minor injuries.
There have been several instances where allegedly the driver fell asleep while driving.
Transport authorities recommend that drivers need to have proper rest in order to avoid instances where accidents happen due to drivers falling asleep on the wheel.
Meanwhile, a senior citizen was rushed to the hospital after being bitten by a female pig that recently gave birth in Tayong Oriental, Loay.
The victim sustained a huge wound after he was bitten by the female pig on the thigh .
Binlod pushes for funding to support boholano robotics teams
Board member Nathaniel Binlod has sought to institutionalize the granting of financial assistance to Boholano robotics teams.
He also sought to recognize top performing Boholanos in his privilege speech on Jan. 6, 2026, at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
He pursued a resolution seeking financial assistance from Education Sec. Sonny Angara and the Department of Education regional director Salustiano Jimenez.
The funds will be provided for robotics team members who are bound to compete in international robotics competitions.
Binlod said there are some learners who are unable to compete or present in robotics competitions representing the Philippines and Bohol due to financial constraints.
These students are able to show their mastery in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Binlod also aired accolades to the DepEd-Bohol school division and its superintendent Faye Luarez after being chosen as Most Outstanding Large Division in Region 7.
Binlod also recognized Arlene Painagan, a Boholana nurse recognized as one of the top 25 nurses in South Central Texas.
The resolutions were approved during the first regular session of the provincial board.
GCGMMC overwhelmed with patients on first working day of 2026
The Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center (GCGMMC) was overflowing with patients on the first working day of 2026.
The surge in patients is expected as some departments of the hospital suspended operations due to the holidays, especially the outpatient department.
A huge horde of patients went to the GCGMMC for consultation, lab tests and follow-up check-ups.
These services were suspended during the holidays and the medical personnel of the hospital exerted effort to accommodate the patients.
Netizens chided the situation at GCGMMC and suggested that district hospitals should be improved.
There are 10 district hospitals owned and operated by the Provincial Government.
Improving the hospitals will help decongest the GCGMMC.
Earlier, Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado suggested to open the hospital in Cortes as a general hospital, to address the congestion of patients seeking medical help at the GCHMMC in Tagbilaran City.
Bohol police seize over 10 kilos of alleged shabu worth p69 million, sourced from Luzon
Bohol police say that the over 10 kilos of alleged shabu seized in a buy-bust operation on Jan. 6, 2026, in barangay Dampas came from Luzon.
Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) spokesman Maj. Rey Olar confirmed that the alleged shabu seized in Tagbilaran came from Luzon and the seized alleged illegal drugs are the biggest in Bohol in 2026.
Olar confirmed the information about the source of the alleged illegal drugs during a press conference on Jan. 7, 2026, saying based on an initial investigation that the alleged illegal drugs were imported from Luzon and transported to Visayas, ultimately landing in Bohol.
To recall, two suspects were busted in a sting operation where over P69 million worth of alleged drugs were confiscated in an operation in Binayran Road.
Based on investigation, the alleged illegal drugs came from Luzon and entered Visayas in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, and then transported to Cebu and then moved to Bohol via a banca.
A mule carried the alleged illegal drugs into Bohol and a local Boholano coordinated the entry of the illegal effects.
Currently, the exact area where the alleged illegal drugs came is being traced, where the “boss” of the drug suspects directed via telephone where the alleged illegal effects were transported.