Bohol lawmaker flags conflicting policies on sailing during storms
Second district Board Member Fernando Estavilla raised concern on Feb. 10, 2026, via a privileged speech in relation to the conflicting policies on sailing during a storm.
Estavilla raised the concern that has affected his constituents in the second district.
This stems from the incident where on Feb. 5, 2026, passengers bound to CPG town were denied boarding onto LCT Isla de Pitogo at Tapal port due to tropical storm Basyang.
On the other hand, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) issued a special permit allowing ships to sail to Pitogo despite the raising of wind signal no. 1.
Yet, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) had closed the ports at that time based on the no sail policy, causing confusion and inconvenience among passengers.
Estavilla said the route from Tapal to Popoo in CPG town has a distance of a kilometer or half nautical miles, and the travel time duration is around five minutes.
Estavilla said the short duration of the trip should have been considered under the guidelines of the PCG for exemptions in the no sail policy.
The board member said the conflict caused confusion and inconvenience to the passengers, including their families and students, as well as persons with disability, and workers who wanted to return home.
They called for a clearer coordination between the PPA and PCG, as the board member said the PCG’s special permit should be considered to clarify the directives to avoid confusion and inconvenience on the travellers to island towns in Bohol.
Estavilla’s issue was referred to the Committee on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, plus the Committee on Peace, Order and Public Safety, to determine the policies and harmonize such guidelines in port operations during stormy situations.
San Isidro mayor says rain shouldn’t stop classes
San Isidro mayor Diosdado Gementiza has nixed the idea of using rain as a reason to order suspension of classes.
He said education is not just about getting grades but formation of proper discipline, responsibility, and preparation of the youth for the real world.
Gementiza issued the call via his social media account, and this comes as Bohol classes were suspended following an orange rainfall alert issued by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Feb. 10, 2026.
There was a heavy downpour on Tuesday due to the effects of the shear line.
Bohol experienced rain on Tuesday, causing the issuance of an orange rainfall warning.
Gementiza said the rain is part of everyday life and may provide a lesson on how to face adversities.
If students are accustomed to leaving when there is rain, then they might do the same thing when they are in the workforce in the future, the mayor emphasized.
San Isidro classes continued despite the orange rainfall warning, while some towns such as Buenavista, Albur, San Miguel, Ubay, Duero, Sierra Bullones, and Tubigon issued orders respectively ,suspending classes on Tuesday following the orange rainfall warning.
The local government unit of San Isidro still gave importance to safety as the mayor asked the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to ensure that students arrived home safely.
The mayor emphasized that discipline and preparedness for life challenges among the youth is the foundation of a robust, responsible, and future-ready citizenry.
Tagbilaran SP approves resolutions seeking Saulog funding
The Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) of Tagbilaran on Feb. 10, 2026, approved resolutions asking for financial aid from external sources.
The resolutions were approved on Tuesday during the SP regular session presided over by Vice Mayor Adam Jala.
The resolutions are asking for financial help from the provincial and national governments to be used in the conduct of Saulog Festival this May.
Mayor Jane Yap asked the SP to pass resolutions asking for financial help from external sources to support the multitude of activities related to Saulog festival, which happens every year.
Coun. Christian Merick Blanco filed the resolutions, and these resolutions were approved en masse.
The move to approve the resolutions showed the unity within the city council to find and get support for Saulog.
The resolutions seeking aid for Saulog are going to be sent to President Marcos Jr., Vice President Sara Duterte, senators, as well as the provincial governor, vice governor, first district board members, the Liga ng mga Barangay Bohol president, Philippine Councilor’s League-Bohol president, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation-Bohol president, as well as the three district congresspersons in Bohol, and the Department of Tourism.
The Saulog festival has become a sought-after mardi gras each year, representing the identity of Tagbilaranon, and the festival runs from March 16 to May 31st.
RDC-7 leaders meet with house reps to align budget priorities
Members of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-7 paid the House of Representatives a visit on Feb. 9, 2026, and attended a high-level consultation and technical budget review.
The activity is meant to align with regional priorities for the crafting of the 2027 national budget.
The event was led by RDC-7 chairperson and Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, as she gathered the joint RDC executive and advisory committees, regional line agencies, local chief executives, and district representatives both from Bohol and Cebu.
Also in attendance were Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado, RDC-7 co-chairperson Melanie Ng, Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DepDev) regional director Jennifer Britannia, Cebu City mayor Nestor Archival, Mandaue mayor Thadeo Ouano, Cesar Suan, and district congressmen in Central Visayas.
They discussed several projects in the region, hoping for an efficient spending of national coffers.
The meeting was the first time that the RDC-7, DepDev, and the House of Representatives institutionalized the process of regional priority projects and aligned it with the national agenda for possible funding.
Bohol leaders pay tribute to former speaker De Venecia
Bohol leaders, both current and former, expressed sadness over the passing away of former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
De Venecia died on Feb. 10, 2026, at the age of 89.
He made history as he was a five-time Speaker of the House of Representatives.
His death was confirmed by his wife, Pangasinan 4th District Representative Gina de Venecia, who described him as a beloved patriarch and dedicated public servant.
De Venecia was a towering figure in Philippine politics, having served as House Speaker for a record of five terms during the 9th, 10th, 12th, 13th, and 14th Congresses.
He is being honored for his legacy and inspiration to the newer generation of public servants.
Former Cong. Edgar Chatto expressed his sadness over de Venecia’s passing, saying de Venecia supported him in his first term in Congress and supported Chatto’s nomination as assistant majority floor leader and chairman of the House Committee on Tourism.
Chatto said de Venecia’s trust and guidance created a path towards public service.
Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado said de Venecia was a model of honest public service, and the governor recalled de Venecia’s contribution to grassroots development and key pieces of legislation that have benefited the Filipino people.
The leaders expressed their sadness and offered prayers for the eternal repose of de Venecia
Some of de Venecia’s notable pieces of legislation included the Build-Operate-Transfer Law, Bases Conversion Law, New Central Bank Law, Philippine Economic Zones Act, and the Dollar Remittance Act, among others.
Boholano rebel’s brother killed in Negros encounter
The brother of a Boholano rebel returnee was killed in an encounter in Negros.
Reynaldo was the brother of Roy Erecre, who operated in Negros Island and reportedly died in an encounter.
This was confirmed by Romy Teruel, the focal person on the National Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).
Reynaldo reportedly was killed in an encounter in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental.
Roy Erecre used to be a member of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) and returned to the fold of the law.
Teruel had the chance to talk to one of Roy’s relatives and learned about Reynaldo’s death.
Roy and his wife returned to the fold of the law as rebel returnees.
They surrendered before Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado last year.
Teruel said Reynaldo’s remains were already claimed by a sister and were already cremated.
Reynaldo was the secretary of Komiteng Rehiyon in Negros of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA (CPP-NPA).
Foreigners get involved in bohol incidents, accidents
Reports indicate that foreign nationals are involved in incidents and road accidents in various areas in Bohol.
One incident took place on Feb. 9, 2026.
In Panglao, the police nabbed a Filipino who allegedly assaulted a Korean national following a heated altercation in barangay Danao.
The incident took place at the dropping area near a restaurant, and the suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
In Loay, a tricycle driver was injured following the collision of three vehicles in barangay Sagnap, which also involved a motorcycle driven by a Russian national and his backrider, who is also Russian.
The motorcycle tried to overtake then went back to the original lane, causing a collision with the tricycle and then with a jeepney.
The tricycle driver was rushed to the hospital, while the Russians came out unscathed.
Moreover, in Tagbilaran City, a Polish national was involved in a traffic incident at barangay Bool.
The Polish national was driving a motorcycle and hit the backside of a car, with no one seriously hurt but damage inflicted on the vehicles.
In Cortes, a motorcycle driven by an Israeli national collided with the vehicle driven by a Filipino at barangay Poblacion.
The Israeli went to the opposite lane and collided with the incoming vehicle.
The incidents are being investigated by the police, reports say.
Bohol records 1.4 million tourists in 2025
Bohol has cemented its stature as a tourism powerhouse after recording 1.4 million tourists visiting the province in 2025.
Bohol has captured the distinction as Best Tourism Destination Province in the Philippines.
During the flag-raising ceremony at the Capitol on Feb. 9, 2026, the Bohol Tourism Office (BTO) presented a year-end report showing a four percent increase in tourist arrivals compared to 2024.
More international tourists visited Bohol, and domestic tourists served as the cornerstone of the local tourism industry.
Most of the international tourists are from South Korea, China, United States, Taiwan, and France, which remained the largest source of tourists.
Meanwhile, Spain, Australia, and Russia tourist arrivals have also increased, showing that Bohol has been able to promote the tourism sector well and attract more tourists.
BTO officer-in-charge Joanne Pinat said that chartered flights from Japan are slated to start in May, targeting high-value travelers.
Most of the tourists stayed at Panglao Island, while some also visited the Chocolate Hills and beaches, showing the results of the effort to promote a wide array of attractions.
Bohol capitol hosts workshop on climate risk and adaptation
The Provincial Government of Bohol, in collaboration with Governance for Climate and Disaster Resilience (GOVCDR), held a climate risk and adaptation workshop aimed to boost the Loboc river tourism system against threats of climate change.
The workshop was held from Feb. 4 to 6, 2026, at the Metrocentre Hotel.
The project, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by Alinea International, focuses on sustainable, disaster-resilient strategies for tourism, agriculture, and communities.
The workshop targeted the Loboc River Tourism System, which is crucial for local livelihoods but threatened by climate change.
The event was attended by provincial and municipal government representatives, national agencies, and stakeholders.
The workshop emphasized gender equity, diversity, and social inclusion in climate planning.
Earlier in 2026, a risk assessment workshop for Balicasag Island was also conducted, focusing on diving site resilience.
These initiatives are part of Bohol’s broader efforts to improve disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate adaptation as a designated UNESCO Global Geopark.
DPWH tightens grip on project ads with new policy
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) revealed a new policy concerning the advertisement of projects prior to bidding.
In the new policy, before the advertising for the project is implemented, it should be approved by the Central Office first.
The DPWH advertises the projects it wishes to undertake before the bidding process ensues.
The new policy was revealed by DPWH second district engineer Fernando Talagsa on Feb. 9, 2026.
He said all advertisements need to first get the approval of the Central Office.
If anyone joins the bidding, the Central Office is the one that will dictate the prices, which Talagsa described as rock-bottom costs.
He said there are projects for the second district enumerated in the General Appropriations Act, and not one has been released for bidding
The DPWH is working on previously started projects beginning in 2025 and in 2024.
Reforms are being implemented in the said agency following allegations of anomalies of substandard and ghost projects as well as kickbacks from projects.
The agency was rocked with corruption allegations, and the current leadership is on a house-cleaning mode.
Ex-councilor Coquilla willing to stop hilot practice amid criticisms
Former Antequera councilor Johnny Coquilla said he is willing to stop his “hilot” practice if he is forced by medical practitioners.
He is currently known for his bone setting practice.
He mentioned this over a report following an advisory issued by the Bohol Medical Society (BMS) and the group of physical therapists telling people to avoid visiting unlicensed health practitioners or unlicensed clinics practicing healthcare services.
Coquilla said he has no problem stopping his bone setting or hilot practice if forced to stop.
He clarified that his objective in his practice is just to help those who are in need and to provide relief from their affliction.
He just wants to help those who can’t afford expensive medical care in hospitals or the costly services of physical therapists.
He clarified that he never issued any prescription and he merely provided advice for a healthy lifestyle and proper consumption of vitamins.
He urged his critics and the medical community to avoid spreading negative views.
He said it is best to cooperate with each other and use the knowledge for the benefit of people, especially for Boholanos in need.
Currently, patients still flock to his office, and these people come from different parts of Bohol as well as from other provinces, who seek relief from their affliction.
Coquilla started his practice in 2022 and started to treat friends, and his clientele expanded as time went by as people have heard about his techniques and trusted his practice.
Tagbilaran city cracks down on Badjao mendicancy
The Tagbilaran City government has intensified its efforts to contain the Badjaos who remain as mendicants begging for money on city streets.
City Administrator Alvin Acuzar said there is a noted decline in the number of Badjaos begging for money on the city streets as they have become stricter to contain these people by the enforcement team.
The team is composed of members from the City Social Welfare and Development Office, Tagbilaran City Police Station, and other agencies.
He said the public may have noted during the previous holiday season that the mendicant Badjaos were reduced in number as the city government has become stricter and has clamped down on the Badjaos loitering around the city streets to beg.
There are reports alleging that some Badjaos roaming in the city are becoming violent if city folks refuse the Badjaos’ request for food.
Some Badjaos allegedly retaliate by bludgeoning vehicles.
The city has been vigilant in keeping the Badjaos at bay as the city has already filed charges of violating city ordinances in relation to Badjaos’ mendicancy, which included the Badjao’s parents if the violator is a minor.
A fine of P200 is imposed for the first offense, P500 fine for the second offense, and 10-day community service for the third offense.
Monitoring has been intensified following reports that Badjaos from Sulu arrived in Bohol back in December 2025 to beg during the holiday season.
Aside from Badjao violence, there is also a possibility that begging for alms may result in accidents as they continue to loiter along and across city streets while vehicles drive along.
Ubay man arrested for alleged illegal gambling
A lad was arrested for alleged illegal gambling at barangay Fatima in Ubay on Feb. 10, 2026.
The Ubay police conducted an operation that resulted in the arrest of alias Micheal, 21, of barangay San Pascual.
Taken from him were alleged illegal gambling paraphernalia as well as alleged bet money.
The suspect now faces charges of violation of anti-illegal gambling laws for alleged operation of illegal numbers game.
The police have been clamping down on illegal gambling, especially the game called swertres.
The illegal number games are disrupting the legal numbers games backed by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and generate taxes and benefits for those who are seeking financial aid.
The illegal numbers game remains rampant in Bohol despite the presence of legal numbers games.
The PCSO has been asking security forces to crackdown on illegal gambling practices usually in rural areas.
Bohol capitol remains firm on no feeding policy for whale sharks
The Provincial Government of Bohol remains firm on its stand not to reopen the whale shark activities here if there are feeding activities as a way to manipulate the marine animals’ appearance.
The Capitol closed the whale shark activities in Dauis, Albur and Lila due to allegations of whale shark feeding, which is disallowed by an ordinance.
On Feb. 10, 2026, a committee report was presented at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) regular session in relation to a proposed ordinance amending an earlier ordinance passed in 2020.
The 2020 ordinance stipulated the conduct shown to marine wildlife and it included the ban on feeding of these marine animals.
The committee report was presented by Board Member Lucille Lagunay who authored and sponsored the proposed ordinance.
The proposed ordinance seeks to allow the reopening of the whale shark viewing attraction but strictly bans any form of feeding, luring and manipulation of whale sharks to appear for tourists’ view.
Whale watching will only be allowed during the natural times the animals appear like what is being done with the dolphins in Baclayon.
The hope is the reopening will be a nice shot in the arm for Bohol tourism at the same time protecting animal welfare.
Tagbilaran city police to train more swat members
The Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) is planning to train more officers to join the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) as the city population has been steadily increasing.
Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober, TCPS chief, faced the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) during the Feb. 10, 2026 regular session and revealed plans to add new faces in the SWAT for the city.
The idea is in line with the suggestions made by Coun. Fausto Budlong, chairman of the Committee on Peace, Order and Public Safety, as it has been noted that the current SWAT personnel are getting older.
Training for SWAT aims to add to the existing team of 11 members.
Escober said it makes sense to train new blood for fresher legs in order to cover the increasing population of the city.
It is reported that the average age of a SWAT member is about 35 to 37 years old;.
It is not that the existing SWAT members are obsolete, but there is a need to add “fresh legs,” said Escober, to inject vigor and vitality in the specialized service.
As Tagbilaran is urbanizing, he said, there is a need to address peace and order challenges in an urban area.
Loon police seize alleged illegal cigarettes worth P293,400
Alleged illegal cigarettes worth P293,400 were seized in an operation in Loon on Feb. 11, 2026.
As a result, four suspects were arrested for allegedly possessing contrabands.
Police confiscated the 326 reams of alleged illegal cigarettes, which do not feature any graphic health warnings in an operation in barangay Canghangdon Occidental.
The operation was implemented by intelligence operatives of Loon police station and in coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit.
The suspects were arrested for alleged violation of Graphic Health Warnings Law.
After the operation and documentation, the suspects were released as this was their first violation of possessing alleged illegal cigarettes that have missing graphic health warning, but they will be paying fines as a result of the possession.
Bohol capitol joins DepEd program to construct future classrooms
The Provincial Government of Bohol was among those who partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) and signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on constructing future classrooms, a program that will build more classrooms in the country.
The signing was held in Malacañang Palace on Feb. 11, 2026.
The event sealed the formal partnership among local governments, including the provincial government of Bohol, in the nationwide classroom building program.
The MOA decentralizes school construction by transferring primary implementation power from national agencies to local government units (LGUs).
LGUs now lead the procurement, construction, and rehabilitation of classrooms within their jurisdictions.
The DepEd maintains oversight by identifying priority schools, providing standard designs and technical specifications, and conducting final compliance checks.
The government has allocated ₱9.6 billion for the first phase, which aims to deliver approximately 4,000 new classrooms nationwide.
Bohol is just one among several LGUs that joined the initiative, which would address the classroom shortage in the country.
This partnership is designed to bypass traditional delays, ensuring facilities are built faster and more transparently to serve over 145,000 missing classrooms identified as of late 2025.
There are plans to connect over 14,000 unserved schools to the internet, particularly in remote areas.
The classrooms will be utilizing resilient and high-quality designs to ensure learning environments are safe and conducive for Filipino students.
The capitol will support the expedited construction of needed classrooms to achieve quality education for all students.
The program will accelerate the province’s infrastructure program, especially in the education sector, by building modern and conducive learning spaces to spur academic programs among the youth.
The program is a means to continuously invest in education as a foundation for sustainable development of the province.
Bohol celebrates Day of Peace
Bohol celebrated the 16th Day of Peace as a way to show the continued effort to keep Bohol peaceful.
The Day of Peace was made to celebrate the province’s insurgency-free status as rebels are no longer capable of mounting a sizable force to challenge the peaceful condition of the province.
The celebration was held on Feb. 11, 2026, with provincial officials in tow as Bohol maintains inclusive development based on unity.
The event was held at the Bohol Cultural Center and was led by the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (OPSWD) and Kauban sa Reporma (KR) Congress.
The day commemorated the anniversary when Bohol was declared insurgency-free in 2010.
The declaration was made by KR resettlement in barangay Remedios, Danao, under former Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzalez and attended by former Gov. Erico Boyles Aumentado, father of the current Bohol governor.
The event revolved around the idea of sustainable peace and socio-economic progress as Bohol strengthened the mechanisms on peace and order and expanded inter-agency collaboration and the community-based reintegration programs.
Vice Gov. Nick Besas delivered Gov. Aris Aumentado’s address saying peace is the pillar of progress, urging those who remain in the fringes to return to the world of the law.
The rebels should take advantage of the government programs for reintegration as the government is willing to welcome them with open arms and to take advantage of new opportunities.
One of the highlights is the aid distribution to beneficiaries of KR where eight beneficiaries each received P30,000 for livelihood and P10,000 as immediate financial assistance.
Over 400 KR members are in Bohol belonging to 15 clusters across the province.
Couple nabbed for alleged drug trade in Dauis
A couple was arrested in Dauis on Feb. 11, 2026 for alleged drug trade following a buy bust operation.
The couple who reside in Tagbilaran City were nabbed in barangay Totolan.
The couple was detected to be allegedly engaged in drug trade.
A poseur buyer engaged with the couple and the couple was arrested following the sale of alleged shabu.
Seized were alleged shabu weighing 8.7 grams and valued at P59,160.
Charges will be filed shortly against the suspects.
Meanwhile, a wanted person who is a farmer was arrested in Abaca, Mabini.
The police were armed with an arrest warrant from the Municipal Circuit Trial Court based in Alicia.
The suspect is accused of attempted homicide.
In Tubigon, the tracker team arrested alias Roco from barangay Panaytayon.
He was arrested as he is accused of violating the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act.
Sikatuna solar plant to operate soon, says Ellorimo
Former Sikatuna mayor and town councilor Jose Ellorimo hopes the Sikatuna solar power plant will operate within this year.
The 45-megawatt solar power plant is located in Can-agong and Bahay Bahay.
Ellorimo said the solar power plant broke ground in April 2025.
Ellorimo is thankful that most of the workers in the construction are from Sikatuna.
Reports said that allegedly the subcontractor failed to follow the specification on the depth of the foundation.
The panels are now scattered on top of buildings.
Ellorimo added that the new power plant is a huge help for Sikatuna once it starts operations.
The power plant sits on a 40-hectare lot covering two barangays of Sikatuna.
Alleged drugs seized in Tagbilran buy bust
Two suspects were arrested following a buy bust operation in Tagbilaran City as the police seized alleged shabu worth P34,000.
The operation took place on Feb. 10, 2026, in barangay Mansasa.
The city drug enforcement team arrested a 45-year-old person from Carcar, Cebu, but currently resides in Mariveles, Dauis, and a 64-year-old male of Poblacion 1, Tagbilran.
Two packets of alleged shabu weighing five grams were seized during the operation.
Charges are filed against the suspects for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Meanwhile, in another police report, a couple was hurt as the motorcycle they were riding figured in a collision with a car in Carmen town on Feb. 11, 2026.
The driver was with his wife when the accident happened in barangay Nueva Fuerza.
Reports said the motorcycle overtook the vehicle in front and went to the opposite lane and collided with the oncoming vehicle.
The couple sustained injuries and was rushed to a hospital in Tagbilaran City.
Dead dolphin discovered in Valencia
A dead dolphin was discovered in barangay Anas in Valencia, said Mayor Dionisio Neil Balite on Feb. 11, 2026.
The remains of the dolphin were brought to Canmanico fishport in the same town.
The dead dolphin was discovered by a fisherman, and it measures 92 inches in length and 15 inches in width.
As of this writing, it is uncertain what the cause is of the death of the dolphin.
It is possible the dolphin was trapped and the situation
may have led to its death.
The dolphin had a wound near its tail said authorities who are still investigating the reason of the dolphin’s death.
Dolphins and other marine animals are frequently seen in the coastal areas of Bohol like the Pamilacan Island.
Bohol Light thankful that Basyang left no damage
Bohol Light is thankful that Basyang came and left no damage in her aftermath, says Sheryl Paga.
Paga said this during her guest appearance on Newsmakers ug Uban Pa radio program on Feb. 11, 2026.
Paga said Basyang came to the Visayas and Mindanao and brought heavy rains to Bohol including Tagbilaran City.
There were no power interruptions at the height of the storm, she said.
Bohol Light continues to conduct preventive maintenance activities near power lines and transformers in facilities to ensure reliable power supply and prevent accidents if these issues remain, Paga continued.
Moreover, she said, Bohol Light has been busy implementing capital expenditure projects for 2026.
The project included strengthening of power lines and installation of automatic circuit reclosers to make it easier to find faults in a particular area and give faster response.
Bohol Light is also conducting clearing operations of vegetation near the power lines to prevent possible interruptions in power distribution.
Meanwhile, Paga said, the customer care department is optimistic in implementing the information and education campaigns in different barangays in Tagbilaran City.
The firm is letting the people know more what is happening with Bohol Light as well as its programs where consumers can ask questions directly and get straight answers.
Bohol Light wants to provide fair, safe, and legal access to electricity and to protect the community for the progress of everyone.
Paga said that for any concern, one may also call the following Bohol Light telephone numbers:
038 427 2372 and 0920 960 2372.
NGCP to complete 7 key projects in 2026
NGCP is set to energize major transmission projects in 2026 following the completion of several critical project components including facility upgrades, expansions, and improvements for grid stability and reliability.
The following projects are targeted for completion within the year: Amlan-Dumaguete 138kV transmission line with ERC-approved cost PhP 1.9 Billion, Tuguegarao-Lal-lo (Magapit) 230kV transmission with ERC-approved cost PhP 2.4 Billion, Tuy 500/230kV Substation Stage 1 (Tuy-Dasmariñas 500kV transmission line component) with ERC-approved cost PhP 8.1 Billion, Nabas-Caticlan-Boracay 138kV transmission line with ERC-approved cost PhP 4.2 Billion, and Tacurong-Kalamansig 69kV transmission line with a cost of PhP 757.98 Million. The company is also set to finish Stage 2 of its Visayas Substation Reliability project, as well as the relocation of steel poles along the Hermosa-Duhat 230kV transmission line within the year.
These will address economic drivers such a s load growth, system reliability and security, power quality and technology, entry of new generating plants (both renewable and non-renewable), as well as to complement major projects such as power grid backbones and island interconnections.
In 2025, NGCP completed the upgrading and expansion of 14 substations to enhance grid reliability and stability. The Castillejos Substation was installed with 1,000MVA transformer capacity, the Calaca and Concepcion Substations were each installed with new 300MVA transformers, the Corella, Toril, Pitogo, Maramag, Dingle, Calbayog, and Paranas Substations with 100MVA transformers, the Davao Substation with a 150MVA transformer, and the San Jose and Mabinay Substations with a 50MVA transformer. A 100MVA expansion at NGCP’s Iloilo Substation, a component of the Panay-Guimaras Interconnection project, was also completed in April 2025.
Voltage improvement initiatives were also completed by NGCP in its Tigaon, Malvar, Baybay Load-end Station, Sta. Barbara, and Zamboanga Substations.
These accomplishments are a testament to NGCP’s commitment to its mandate of delivering safe, secure, and reliable power transmission services to our customers. “We take our obligations under our franchise and concession agreement seriously. Despite continuing challenges in right-of-way and permitting, we remain committed to the work ahead, and are optimistic in completing these projects within the year,” NGCP stated.
NGCP also renewed its appeal for support from the Department of Energy and other related government agencies, and the local government units (LGUs) for the swift approval and release of necessary permits for the implementation of critical transmission projects.
“We continue to seek the support of government agencies and LGUs by ensuring the expedited release of permits related to our projects. Their assistance is vital to ensuring unhampered project implementation,” NGCP said.
2 senior citizens hurt in Panglao incident
Two senior citizens were injured following an incident in barangay Tawala, Panglao reports said on Feb. 8, 2026.
The suspect, who is also a senior citizen, was allegedly jealous of another person a reason they had an altercation.
As there was a commotion, the suspect allegedly took a sharp object and stabbed one of the victims on the forehead leading to an injury.
Another commotion ensued that when the suspect forced open a door, the motion also hit another victim and sent the victim on to the floor.
As the victim was on the floor, the suspect allegedly stabbed the victim multiple times below the knee.
The two victims were rushed to the hospital with the help of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Panglao.
Police are still conducting further investigation as charges may be filed soon.
HVI nabbed, over P2M in alleged shabu seized in Cortes
A high-value individual (HVI) was arrested on Feb. 9, 2026 in De La Paz, Cortes, as the police seized P 2.48 million worth of alleged shabu following a buy bust operation.
The Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group, and other intelligence units, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) -7, and Cortes town police collaborated in the said operation.
Taken from the suspect were packets containing substance alleged to be shabu worth more than P2 million.
Meanwhile, an alias Engkanto was arrested on Feb 5, 2026 in Cabilao Island, Loon.
Taken from alias Engkanto were packets of alleged shabu weighing 3.3 grams and valued at P22,000.
In Ubay, a security guard was arrested following a buy bust operation also on Feb. 6, 2026.
The suspect, a newly-identified drug suspect, was nabbed in barangay Pag-asa.
The suspect is known as alias Rey, 30, from barangay Pag-asa.
The alleged shabu weighed 5.03 grams and was valued at P34,204 more or less.
The suspects now face charges of violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Albur barangay residents oppose reopening of dressing plant
Some residents of barangay East Poblacion, Albur, have raised opposition to the planned reopening of the controversial RM Dressing Plant, which was earlier ordered closed due to sanitation issues.
During a Special Barangay Assembly on January 25, 2026, residents formally voted against the reopening of the plant.
The final tally was 92 “No” votes to 64 “Yes” votes.
The assembly was attended by 199 registered residents of the barangay with members of the barangay council.
The activity was held in accordance with the local government code, and the assembly discussed the reopening of the controversial dressing plant.
The voting was held during the assembly to get the opinion of the residents on the issue of reopening the dressing plant.
The results of the community vote and official minutes from the assembly are being forwarded to the Sangguniang Bayan for further deliberation on the plant’s operational status.
Carmen cops arrest suspects in vehicle theft and gambling raid
Carmen police arrested two suspected vehicle thieves in barangay Buenavista on Feb. 9, 2026.
The suspects were aged 22 and 19 and both reside in the said barangay.
A victim complained of losing his vehicle to the suspects as the victim’s motorcycle went missing while being parked in a public space at barangay Poblacion Sur, Carmen.
The police were able to identify the suspects and effected the arrest.
The victim was able to recover the alleged stolen motorcycle as charges are filed against the suspects for alleged vehicle theft.
Meanwhile, the police have intensified their campaign against illegal gambling as two suspected ushers were caught in the act of engaging in illegal number game in separate barangays in Ubay.
In barangay Poblacion, a 55-year-old female was arrested and in barangay Fatima, a 46-year-old male was arrested.
Taken from the suspects were alleged illegal gambling paraphernalias well as alleged bet money.
The suspects now face charges for violating illegal gambling laws.
Bohol SK Federation plans fundraising activity to clear unliquidated balances
The Bohol Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation is looking at raising funds in order to pay off the unliquidated balances incurred by the previous dispensation.
According to SK Federation president and Board Member Lawrence Xavier Ancla, the presence of unliquidated balances is the reason the SK is unable to tap funds coming from the Provincial Government.
Ancla said the issue of unsettled unliquidated balances remains a barrier and remains unsolved.
He said the federation members agreed to conduct fundraising activity to shoulder and settle the unliquidated balances.
SK officials are having a hard time tapping funds from the provincial government as the unliquidated balances remain unsettled.
The funds should have been used for programs and projects for the Boholano youth.
The fundraising activity is seen as an alternative mode to settle the issue and enable the SK to finally access funding from the provincial government.
Moreover, by settling the unliquidated balance, the succeeding SK officials will no longer carry the burden and ensure smooth implementation of programs for the youth.
Ancla wants the succeeding officials to not suffer the same fate of getting denied access to funds due to unliquidated balances.
He said the group is in the process of coming up with plans on how to raise funds to settle the unliquidated balances.
Bonotbonot bet reigns as Ms. Katahum sa Buenavista
The candidate from barangay Bonotbonot was crowned as Ms. Katahum sa Buenavista 2026 on Feb. 10, 2026 at the Buenavista Cultural Center.
Alyssa Bella Suarez of Brgy. Bonotbonot bested other candidates and captured the title of Ms. Katahum sa Buenavista 2026, according to a post by Mayor Dave Duallo.
Ms. Katahum sa Buenavista 2026 is the official beauty pageant of the municipality of Buenavista in Bohol.
It serves as a highlight event for the town’s 66th Foundation Day celebration.
Buenavista celebrates its foundation day every 11th of February and this year is the 66th Foundation Anniversary.
Other winners include the following: 1st runner-up, Frilly Melecio of barangay Anonang; 2nd runner-up, Shara Fheve Añora of barangay Cangawa; 3rd runner-up, Elizah Chrystal Albuera of barangay Catigbian; and 4th runner-up, Abegail Celis of barangay Lapacan Sur.
The purpose of the beauty pageant is to showcase the grace, talent, and confidence of ladies representing the different barangays of Buenavista, Bohol.
The beauty contest was one among many activities related to the Foundation Day celebration.
Man miraculously escapes death after shooting incident in Tubigon
A man miraculously survived a gunshot following an incident in Tubigon and is now recovering in a hospital.
Following the incident, the man was rushed to a Tagbilaran hospital on Feb. 8, 2026.
The 38-year-old male from Poblacion, Tubigon, survived an armed assault while he was walking along a barangay road and was shot by an unidentified gunman.
He was hit in the lower portion of his torso, causing the victim to lose his balance, and was rushed by first responders to the hospital.
Tubigon police said the incident is still under investigation to determine the motive of the shooting incident and the suspect behind it.
The victim was first brought to a nearby hospital in Tubigon and later transferred to a hospital in Tagbilaran City.