Oliva urges support for truth despite the cost
Catigbian mayor Benjie Oliva said it is best to support those telling the truth regardless of the cost of support.
He said this in reaction to some Visayans who would live and die with a particular personality just because they also come from the same region even if the person has questioned integrity and accountability.
He said that we should always choose the truth when making any decisions.
Oliva said the problem with Filipinos is that we cannot improve ourselves because the government does not look at justice or follow the rule of law, rather it attaches to political clowns and people fall for them because of fanaticism.
Oftentimes leaders are chosen not on the basis of ability to lead but due to popularity, he explained.
He lamented that the lowest economic classes come to vote without discernment and they choose leaders based on fanaticism.
He also chided the vindictive nature of politics especially in Bohol.
Oliva said in his leadership everyone gets help regardless of political color.
He lets bygones be bygones and works as one government bureaucracy, but it is a different story when the political season comes.
Mayor Lopez will resume post at Loon town hall after Ombudsman reversal
Loon mayor Tomas Cezar Lopez is returning as mayor after serving his suspension imposed by the Ombudsman.
Lopez is among the past and current Capitol officials originally dismissed by the Ombudsman from service.
However, the Ombudsman reversed its earlier decision and this paved the way for the return of Lopez to Loon as mayor.
Currently, Pedro Literatus, elected Loon vice mayor, was installed as mayor in Lopez’s absence.
Sources within the town hall said that Lopez is planning for a grand return to the local government unit (LGU).
Lopez is said to be eligible to return as of May 6, 2026 following the reversal of an earlier Ombudsman’s decision.
The Ombudsman reversed the administrative and criminal cases against former Gov. Arthur Yap and some current and former Capitol officials who were implicated in the alleged anomalous procurement of a sound system used in a national tourism event in Panglao on Sept. 2021.
The Sangguniang Bayan held an emergency meeting prior to Lopez’s assumption back to office.
Lopez’s programs for Loon were detailed after he was suspended due to the issue filed before the Ombudsman.
Alimanga temporarily closed due to severe waste
Starting on May 3, 2026, the Alimanga area was temporarily closed to the public following the sudden and uncontrollable increase of garbage that entered the Abatan River.
The measure was taken due to concerns that the condition of the delicate environment in the area could worsen because of the rising amount of waste, despite the community’s cleaning efforts.
Due to the order, all forms of recreational visits and public gatherings in the area are now prohibited.
However, access remains open only for individuals whose primary livelihood directly depends on the river.
The Abatan Mangrove And Nipa Growers Association clarified that the closure is only temporary and will remain in effect while their environmental assessment is ongoing to find a sustainable solution to the problem.
The local government also appealed for public understanding while prioritizing the protection and rehabilitation of the environment.
The Abatan Mangrove And Nipa Growers Association also promised to release updates once there is additional information about the progress of the matter.
Suspect in teacher stabbing in Pilar identified
The police in the municipality of Pilar are now working to file a case against the suspect who stabbed to death a retired teacher days ago, a crime that happened right inside the victim’s home.
This was revealed by Pilar Mayor Wilson Pajo during an interview with media.
According to Mayor Pajo, a person of interest in the crime has already been identified.
Because of this, the mayor is hopeful that justice will soon be served to the family of the victim, Lolita Bataisar, a former teacher at Pilar Central Elementary School.
The mayor added that the town’s police are already preparing all the necessary documents to formally file the case this week.
It can be recalled that Bataisar was attacked by an unidentified suspect inside her house in Barangay Poblacion in the said town.
The victim was stabbed multiple times and was quickly brought to Carmen District Hospital.
However, the doctor declared her dead on arrival due to the serious wounds she sustained on her body.
Acacia tree falls on house in Loay
An acacia tree fell on the house of the family of Tirso and Florencia Barrete in Barangay Agape, Loay.
According to Mayor Lahar Ayuban, they personally monitored the situation after seeing the social media post of Barangay Captain Noel Imboy detailing the damage to the said home.
The residents of the house were safe.
The local government immediately visited the area through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) led by Maricel Violago to assess the family’s condition and provide immediate assistance.
The Mayor assured that a new house will be built for the affected family through the town’s “Balay Tinabangay sa Loay” program, together with the cooperation of the barangay.
The local leadership also expressed deep gratitude to Sir Willy Flores and Madam Evelyn Flores who offered to sponsor the construction of a new home for the Barrete family.
The local government continues to call for community cooperation to help families affected by calamities and unexpected incidents.
Magnitude 6.1 quake hits Eastern Samar
A strong earthquake with magnitude 6.1 struck afternoon of Monday, May 4, 2026, at 2:09 PM, according to official data.
Its epicenter was located at 11.76°N, 125.37°E, about 9 kilometers northwest of the town of San Julian, Eastern Samar, and had a depth of 10 kilometers.
Based on instrumental intensities, strong shaking was felt in some areas of Eastern Visayas.
Intensity V was recorded in Can-avid in Eastern Samar, and in the towns of Dulag and Alangalang in Leyte, as well as in Gandara in Samar.
Meanwhile, Intensity IV was felt in Abuyog, Palo, and Carigara in Leyte.
The earthquake was also felt in other parts of the country.
Intensity III was recorded in Naval, Biliran; Hernani in Eastern Samar; Ormoc City, Hilongos, Albuera, Baybay, Villaba, and Isabel in Leyte; as well as in Sorsogon City and Bulusan in Sorsogon, and some towns in Southern Leyte.
In other areas, weaker shaking was felt.
Intensity II was recorded in Kawayan in Biliran; San Francisco in Cebu; Monreal and Esperanza in Masbate; and Prieto Diaz in Sorsogon.
While Intensity I was felt in Tabaco in Albay; Carcar, Liloan, and Cebu City in Cebu; Sta. Maria in Davao Occidental; Passi City in Iloilo; and in Aroroy and Cataingan in Masbate, including Donsol in Sorsogon and Maasin in Southern Leyte.
As of now, there is still no official report on damage or injuries caused by the earthquake.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring for possible aftershocks and other effects.
The public is advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols during earthquakes to avoid accidents.
Tagbilaran police arrest top wanted person in Mountain Province
A major accomplishment was achieved by the Tagbilaran City Police Station after successfully arresting the No. 9 Top Most Wanted Person (Provincial Level) and No. 5 (City Level), in Bauko, Mountain Province last Saturday, May 2, 2026.
The suspect is known to be a member of the “Patil-ao Termite Gang,” a group involved in major robbery cases nationwide.
It was also confirmed that the said suspect is one of those long wanted in connection with old robbery cases here in Tagbilaran City that were not resolved in past years.
Through the strong determination and effective leadership of PLTCOL JOEY MALLARE BICOY, the arrest of this suspect was finally carried out.
The joint operation was led by BCPO Police Station 7 (Lead Unit), together with CIU, CIDMU, RIU-14, Bohol PPO, and Tagbilaran CPS through a Warrant of Arrest issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 2.
The TCPS continues its efforts to ensure the safety of every Tagbilaranon and maintain peace in our city.
PNP arrests top regional most wanted for rape in Bohol
The Philippine National Police, under the command of PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., arrested the Top 1 Most Wanted Person at the regional level for four counts of Qualified Rape of a Minor in a targeted manhunt operation conducted at around 3:00 in the afternoon on May 2, 2026, in Purok 4, Lawis, Barangay Baybayon, Mabini, Bohol.
The 39-year-old male suspect, a resident of Meycauayan City, Bulacan, was arrested through the joint efforts of the Tracker Team of the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Bulacan Police Provincial Office as lead unit, together with personnel from the Meycauayan City Police Station, Bulacan 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and Mabini Municipal Police Station in Bohol.
The operation stemmed from focused intelligence work that pinpointed the location of the accused.
The arrest was made through a Warrant of Arrest dated November 18, 2025, issued by the Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 121 in Meycauayan City, Bulacan, for four counts of Qualified Rape of a minor with no bail recommended.
The accused is now in police custody while the warrant will be returned to the issuing court while awaiting the issuance of the Commitment Order.
PGEN Nartatez emphasized the PNP’s strong commitment to ensuring that individuals accused of serious crimes are held accountable.
This accomplishment reflects the PNP Focused Agenda — a strategic direction for reform designed to make police service more responsive and effective.
Passenger calls for probe on baggage fees at Tagbilaran Port
A passenger called on city officials and port management to investigate the alleged unclear and unfair collection of baggage fees at Tagbilaran Port.
According to the complaint of Claire Red Oli, they were charged ₱150 for her baggage even though the posted signage states that it is only ₱50 per baggage or item.
She said there are no clear guidelines or standards on what basis baggage is classified as “small” or “large.”
Oli was more concerned when personnel told them their baggage was “large” even though it had very little difference compared to “small,” which means it possibly depends only on the interpretation of the one in charge.
Aside from this, she also criticized the attitude of some personnel, who she said spoke in a loud voice, gave sarcastic replies, and lacked proper customer service and empathy, causing a bad experience for passengers.
Because of this, the passenger called on Global Port Management – Tagbilaran and officials including Cong. Baba Yap, Gov. Aris Aumentado, and Mayor Jane Yap to look into and investigate the issue to ensure clear and fair implementation of regulations.
The passenger added that this is not a new complaint and many have already experienced the same situation, so they hope immediate action will be taken.
As of now, there is still no official statement from port management regarding the issue.
Japanese consul general praises Bohol, hopeful for more Japanese tourists
Japanese Consul General Yudai Ueno praised the exceptional beauty of Bohol’s beaches, and expressed his hope that Japanese tourists will enjoy and experience the various attractions of the province.
According to Ueno, Bohol has great potential as a top tourist destination, and he is optimistic that the number of Japanese tourists visiting will increase in the coming months and years.
The Japanese Consul also commended the province’s improved direction under the leadership of Governor Aris Aumentado, especially his advocacy “Abante Bohol”, which focuses on the continued development of tourism and the economy of the province.
Bohol government files application for Bulk Water Project
The provincial government of Bohol, under the leadership of Governor Erico Aris Aumentado, submitted a formal application for water rights to the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) on April 14, 2026.
This step is a significant part of the planned bulk water project that aims to address the water supply shortage across the province.
According to the presentation of Engr. Angelus Sales, the Development Planning Officer IV, the project is designed to provide a total capacity of 501 million liters of water per day (MLD).
It aims to serve 17 municipalities in Bohol to ensure a sustainable water supply for households and businesses in those areas.
Of the allocation, the town of Ubay will receive the largest share at 86 MLD, followed by Talibon with 58 MLD.
Other towns that will benefit from the project include Inabanga (38 MLD), Trinidad (35 MLD), Tubigon (34 MLD), Getafe (30 MLD), Loon (29 MLD), Calape (28 MLD), and Buenavista (28 MLD).
Also set to receive supply are Danao (24 MLD), Sagbayan (23 MLD), Bien Unido (20 MLD), San Miguel (19 MLD), Clarin (15 MLD), President Carlos P. Garcia (14 MLD), Dagohoy (13 MLD), and San Isidro with 7 MLD.
Currently, the processing of the application is being expedited so that implementation of the large water infrastructure project in the province can begin.
The development is a big help for residents who have long suffered from water supply shortages.
According to ordinary citizens, the project is the “answer to our long-time prayer” because for many years, they relied only on rain, wells, and even water rations.
The lack of a good water supply has become a major obstacle to their health and livelihood, which is why they have great hope that this bulk water project will finally provide permanent relief for their daily needs.
Man, 59, shot dead in Dimiao
A 59-year-old man died on the spot after he was shot by three still unidentified suspects in Barangay Limocon Ilaud, at 9:50 in the morning on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
The victim was identified as Romeo Boyles, unemployed, and died immediately at the scene of the incident.
Based on the initial investigation, the victim was splitting wood when three men riding a motorcycle suddenly appeared.
One of the suspects approached and shot Boyles while the two companions stood guard or acted as lookouts.
It was reported that the victim still tried to grab the weapon from the gunman, but failed.
Boyles ran but the suspect chased him and finished him off with gunshots, causing his death at the scene.
The investigation by the Dimiao Police Station is still ongoing to identify the suspects and determine the motive of the crime.
Panglao approves social pension for seniors
The Sangguniang Bayan of the municipality of Panglao has formally approved an ordinance creating a municipal social pension for senior citizens.
Municipal Ordinance No. 13 series of 2025, known as the “Municipal Social Pension Ordinance of Panglao, Bohol,” aims to strengthen the welfare and condition of the elderly through continuous financial support from the local government.
Councilor Analyn Apekop Casane, who is the author and sponsor of the ordinance, revealed that the measure is an important initiative to ensure there is a strong and sustainable program for the social pension of senior citizens in the town.
The principal author of the law also thanked the members of the Sangguniang Bayan of Panglao for their support during the deliberation and approval of the ordinance, including the resource persons who helped shape it.
Recognition was also given to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Bohol for their review and declaration that the ordinance is valid, as well as to the local chief executive of Panglao for approving and signing it so it becomes effective in accordance with the law.
It is expected that through this program, the quality of life of senior citizens in Panglao will be further improved through additional support from the local government.
Even before Casane crafted the bill, she was already giving financial assistance to senior citizens in Panglao from her salary as Councilor.
DILG Bohol urges LGUs to pass safer cities ordinances
The Department of the Interior and Local Government – Bohol Provincial Office urged Local Government Units (LGUs) to pass and strengthen ordinances for safer communities under the government’s Safer Cities initiative.
DILG Provincial Director Jhonjoan Mende said that mayors have already been sent Memorandum Circular No. 2026-029 which urges local governments to strengthen peace and order on streets, schools, markets, and other public places.
Under the Safer Cities Initiative led by the Philippine National Police as lead agency, LGUs are urged to implement the ban on drinking and going shirtless in public places, loud videoke after 10 p.m., and the enforcement of curfew for minors.
According to Mende, the department is reviewing the policy initiative to ensure its proper implementation.
Among the bases for implementing the policy is examining cases from the past years of 2024 until 2025, and comparing these with current cases in April 2026.
Resorts in Panglao may offer promos in May
It is expected that some resorts on Panglao Island will implement promos and discounted rates in the month of May, if the slowdown in bookings continues due to the effect of the global crisis.
Based on observations in the tourism industry, resorts usually conduct price adjustments and special offers to attract visitors during periods of low demand.
In some online promos, there are establishments that give discounts reaching up to 30 percent on room rates especially in the summer season
Despite this, according to the report, tourist arrivals in Panglao have remained strong in the past months even with the increase in travel costs, which means there is continued interest from local and foreign tourists
Commonly done promos like discounted packages, flexible booking policies, and bundled services (including free breakfast and shuttle) are among the methods to maintain the occupancy rates of resorts
If the decline in bookings continues in the coming weeks, it is expected that more resorts will follow the same strategy to maintain operations and still improve tourism on the island.
CTG-linked most wanted in Bohol arrested in Bacolod for murder
A suspected member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and top most wanted in Bohol was arrested in a joint police operation on April 25, 2026.
The 48-year-old accused known by the alias “Loide” was arrested at 10:20 in the morning in Bacolod City through operatives of the Bohol Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) RFU–Negros Island Region, San Carlos City Police Station, Negros Occidental Police Intelligence Unit, and Regional Intelligence Division–NIR.
According to Bohol MARPSTA, the accused is allegedly connected to the CTG under the North Negros Front and has long been wanted as most wanted in Bohol.
The operation was led by PLT Narciso Hinacay under the supervision of PCPT Bonifacio W. Tañola Jr., station chief.
He was served multiple warrants of arrest for the crime of murder issued by the Regional Trial Court in Bohol.
Included is the warrant issued on March 12, 2020 by RTC Branch 51 in Carmen, and a warrant issued on November 29, 2019 by RTC Branch 47 in Tagbilaran City.
No bail was set for all cases.
Now, he is in the custody of CIDG RFU–NIR for proper disposition.
The Bohol MARPSTA also strengthened their campaign against wanted persons to maintain peace and order.
Starcraft Cebu-Tubigon passengers complain of extreme heat; aircon reportedly broken
Passengers on the Starcraft vessel traveling from Cebu to Tubigon, Bohol on Monday last week raised complaints after they experienced extreme heat inside the sea vessel.
The said trip, which departed from Cebu at 3:30 in the afternoon, was complained about because the vessel had no air conditioning, forcing some to stand up just to find little air.
According to a passenger who sent a media outlet a video of the incident, the ship’s crew did not give any clarification or explanation as to why their aircon was not working.
Passengers described their experience as if they were “gigang-gang” (being roasted) in the heat due to the lack of ventilation inside the closed cabin.
“Imagina sir naa ka sa kwarto nga sirado kaayo unya way aircon, unsay imong bation?” (Imagine sir, you’re in a room that’s very closed off and there’s no aircon, how would you feel?) said one of the passengers who expressed his disappointment with the service of the shipping line.
PCG rescues 7 passengers after motorbanca sinks in Bohol waters
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) carried out a successful search and rescue operation after a motorbanca sank in the waters of Barangay Tilmobo in Pres. Carlos P. Garcia and Barangay Guadalupe in Maasin City on April 24, 2026.
The Coast Guard Sub-Station Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, together with Task Force Kalikupan, responded quickly and immediately deployed a search and rescue team to the area.
Upon arrival of the rescuers, they located two motorbancas and rescued seven passengers.
Four of them, senior citizens, were transferred to the local government’s rescue boat, while the other three individuals were safely brought to the shore of Barangay Tilmobo.
The four survivors were taken to Pitogo Port and turned over to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Pitogo for proper care.
According to the PCG, the quick response helped ensure the safety of all passengers, while efforts continue to strengthen maritime safety and emergency response operations.
BPPO receives 21 patrol cars and ₱51m ICT equipment
Police Brigadier General Arnold E. Abad, the Acting Regional Director of Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7), led the formal turnover of 21 new patrol cars and high-tech ICT equipment to the Bohol Provincial Police Office (BPPO) on April 27, 2026.
The activity, which coincided with the general’s first official command visit, aims to strengthen the police’s capacity to respond to emergencies and maintain peace and order across the province.
Joining PBGen. Abad in the ceremony were Governor Erico Aris Aumentado and PNP BOHOL Provincial Director PCol. Patricio Degay Jr.
The total number of vehicles received by BPPO includes two units of Toyota Hilux 4×4, 18 units of Mitsubishi Triton 4×4, two dirt bikes, and one Toyota Innova.
These pieces of equipment are expected to greatly help in patrolling remote areas and in a faster response to crime incidents.
Aside from the vehicles, modern ICT equipment worth over ₱51,149,162.60 was also turned over.
Included in the equipment are 48 scanjet scanners, 48 printers, 35 biometric fingerprint scanners, 35 webcams with tripod, and 31 USB storage devices.
These tools are part of the PNP’s program to modernize their documentation and investigation system to make public service more efficient.
In the distribution held, the Tagbilaran City Police Station received one Mitsubishi Triton and one Toyota Innova, while the Panglao Municipal Police Station received one Toyota Hilux 4×4.
The Bohol Tourist Police was also given two units of Mitsubishi Triton.
Meanwhile, one unit of Mitsubishi Triton each was received by the towns of Catigbian, Duero, Cortes, Baclayon, Buenavista, Corella, Jagna, Loon, Lila, San Miguel, Sierra Bullones, Sikatuna, Valencia, Loboc, and Candijay.
Through these new assets, PBGen. Abad encouraged police personnel to take care of government property and to provide more dedicated service for the safety of Boholanos.
The support of Governor Erico Aris Aumentado also shows the strong partnership between the local government and the police to ensure that tourism and the economy of Bohol province remain peaceful and vibrant.
47IB: Bohol stays ‘insurgency-free’ amid Negros operations
The 47th Infantry (Katapatan) Battalion of the Philippine Army assured that strict security remains in place in the province of Bohol to prevent the entry of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from the neighboring island of Negros.
This comes after a series of encounters there that have caused concern among Boholanos.
In a media interview on Monday, April 27, 2026, Major Jayrod Cabahug, Executive Officer of the 47IB, stated that there is still no confirmed report of any NPA presence that has slipped through the coastlines of Bohol.
According to him, the military, Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and PNP Maritime Group are working together to guard the province’s borders.
“Wala pa ‘tay kompirmadong Impormasyon despite sa mga nahitabo didto sa Negros, nga adunay presensya sa NPA sa Bohol, nga nagikan sa Negros Occidental o sa Oriental, so atong otoridad, mga nagkalain laing security agency, samot na mga kasundaluhan, atong kapulisan, PCG, nagpadayon sa pagbantay o pagmonitor aron masiguro ang kaluwasan sa publiko, so ingon man ana giawhag nato tanan nga magpabiling alerto pero pabiling kalmado
(We still have no confirmed information despite what happened in Negros, that there is an NPA presence in Bohol coming from Negros Occidental or Oriental, so our authorities, various security agencies, especially the military, our police, PCG, continue to guard or monitor to ensure public safety, so likewise we urge everyone to remain alert but stay calm),” part of Maj. Cabahug’s statement.
Aside from border security, the military is also focusing on the recruitment of youth through social media.
According to Cabahug, they are coordinating with the Provincial Government for programs that will provide the public with correct information so they will not be easily deceived by the propaganda of leftist groups.
“Inubanan sa laing-laing ahensya sa tibuok probinsya sa Bohol, ingon man inubanan sa interbensyon nga gihimo sa provincial Government, padayon ang interbensyon para ma aware ang publiko kung unsa ang posibleng dangatan nga makadaot sa ilang pagsunod sa NPA (Together with various agencies throughout the province of Bohol, as well as with the intervention made by the Provincial Government, the intervention continues to make the public aware of the possible consequences that could harm them if they follow the NPA),” the official added.
In the end, the 47IB called on Boholanos to cooperate with the government, especially if they noticed any suspicious activity.
Cabahug emphasized that maintaining Bohol’s “insurgency-free” status is a collective obligation.
“Ang atuang pagpabilin sa usa ka probinsya nga Insurgency-Free, dili lamang responsibilidad sa security sector o sa Provincial Government kon di duna poy dako nga responsibilidad o kalambigitan ang atong mga kaigsuonang Bol-anon. Magpabilin ta nga alerto, atong likayan ang mga balita nga dili kompirmado nga maoy maka cause og kahadlok sa uban… kung duna tay makita o madungog nga kahimtang nga atong gikadudahan, mas maayu nga atong ipaabot sa atong mga lokal nga otoridad sa Kasundalohan og kapulisan (Our keeping of a province that is Insurgency-Free is not only the responsibility of the security sector or the Provincial Government but our Boholano brothers and sisters also have a big responsibility or involvement. Let us remain alert, let us avoid unconfirmed news that causes fear in others… if we see or hear any situation that we find suspicious, it is better that we relay it to our local military and police authorities),” Maj. Gen. Cabahug concluded.
LTO 7 to deploy 100 more deputized agents in Cebu and Bohol
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) 7 is expanding its force on the streets by adding almost 100 new deputized agents to strengthen the safety of motorists throughout Cebu and Bohol.
According to LTO 7 Director Wendel Dinglasan, the goal of this is to increase the presence of law enforcement officers (LEOs) in the region to ensure that traffic laws are seriously enforced and accidents are reduced.
Currently, 171 personnel from the said agency and the Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO) are undergoing a regional orientation and training workshop.
The training is being handled by the LTO Central Traffic Safety Division where the focus is on the proper implementation of Republic Act (RA) 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, as well as RA 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013 to combat drivers who operate under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
The workshop is divided into two phases where the first batch from southern Cebu was already completed from April 20 to 22, 2026, while the second batch for northern Cebu and Bohol was held from April 23 to 25.
Dinglasan emphasized that the inclusion of personnel from Bohol is a strategic step due to the rapid development of roads on the said island.
At present, LTO 7 already has 175 deputized agents from various units such as the Highway Patrol Group and Airport Police who are jointly working together to maintain order and safety in Central Visayas.
Mandaue court finds REPA queen guilty of estafa as authorities launch manhunt
A Mandaue court has found the so-called repa queen guilty of estafa and she is now being hunted down by authorities.
Maria Claudia Satorinas Talatayod from Loon is being tracked down as she was found guilty of estafa.
She gained notoriety as the repa scam queen and the victims are providing P500,000 reward to those who can provide information leading to the arrest of Talatayod.
If ever Talatayod is caught she will be sent straight to jail to serve her sentence and she is no longer allowed to bail according to lawyer Rene Abcede.
Loon police chief Capt. Thomas Zen Cheung said Talatayod is no longer staying at her home in Loon and possibly has gone into hiding.
It was said that Talatayod victimized plenty of people using the repa scam in Bohol, Cebu and other areas in the country.
Plenty of investors raised a howl of protest when they lost money to the repa investment scam and it was a huge issue in Bohol at the height of the pandemic.
Victims are determined to achieve justice as the money involved in the scam was staggering.
The repa scam was a form of a Ponzi scheme and eventually the investment scheme crumbled like a house of cards.
The public is advised to provide information on Talatayod’s whereabouts and it could lead to her eventual arrest.
ERC orders suspension of electricity disconnections from May to July 2026
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered a nationwide suspension of electricity disconnections for residential and non-residential consumers from May 2026 to July 2026.
The “no-disconnection” policy applies to unpaid bills for the billing periods of May, June, and July 2026.
The directive covers all distribution utilities (DUs) nationwide.
DUs must offer flexible payment terms.
Customers with a monthly consumption of 200 kWh or less are allowed to settle their bills in three-month installments.
The suspension is due to a “state of national energy emergency” declared following rising fuel prices and tensions in the Middle East, aimed at reducing the burden on consumers.
The ERC encourages consumers who are financially able to pay their bills in full and on time to avoid large accumulation of debt.
It remains to be seen if local DUs are going to comply with the order that is effective nationwide.
Native ducks detected in Bohol wetlands as DENR notes importance for vulnerable species
Approximately 1,200 endemic Philippine ducks (Anas luzonica) have been documented in the wetlands of Pilar and San Miguel in Bohol, according to DENR Central Visayas.
This significant sighting highlights the importance of these areas for the vulnerable species, which is threatened by habitat loss and human disturbance.
These ducks were detected in the wetlands of Pilar and San Miguel.
These ducks are considered as vulnerable species and endemic in the Philippines.
This suggests a stable or gathering population of the endemic Anas luzonica.
The wild duck is known for being a shy species, often found in pairs or small groups, but can congregate in large flocks.
Experts said these ducks need safe and clean habitat to allow them to propagate.
Authorities advised the public to avoid activities that may cause disruption in the ecosystem of the wild ducks.
They also emphasized to follow the rules in hunting of these fowl of any form of disruption to wildlife.
KFC slams fake news on Art Yap, urges public to be cautious online
Kabataan for Change (KFC) stalwart Carl Hinlo slammed the fake news circulating against former Cong. Art Yap.
He cited a fake news item saying Bohol will be transferred to Region 8.
Hinlo clarified that such information is fake and should not be taken as truth.
Moreover, another fake news involved Art Yap and former Cong. Edgar Chatto alleging that the leaders of the two politicians are wandering around to campaign for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Hinlo said people should be careful about what they consume on the Internet.
There are times when videos and photos are edited with the purpose of spreading lies or fake news.
He said those scattering fake news are taking advantage of people’s emotions to spread lies.
He said fake news can ruin the reputation of a person and may derail proper decision making.
He asks people to think things over before clicking anything on the Internet.
TCPS lauded for keeping Saulog 2026 peaceful as city honors St. Joseph the Worker
The Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) was recognized for its crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the Saulog 2026 celebrations in Tagbilaran City.
Lt. Col Joey Bicoy highlighted the dedication of TCPS personnel in securing both the maritime procession during the Fluvial Parade in honor of Sr. San Jose and the various public events.
Mayor Jane Yap and the City Council lauded the law enforcement efforts for ensuring the festivities were peaceful, orderly, and joyful for all residents and visitors.
The effort was recognized as a prime example of collaboration between the local government, police force, and the community to uphold the city’s cultural traditions.
The Saulog festival is a major annual celebration in Tagbilaran City to honor its patron saint, St. Joseph the Worker.
Coun. Fausto Budlong sponsored the resolution lauding the TCPS and it was approved during the regular session on May 5, 2026.
Meanwhile, the police were commended for the successful buy-bust operation in Dampas and recovered P7.4 million worth of alleged drugs.
In the operation, two high-value suspects were arrested.
Batuan town bans animal rearing on public roads to protect motorists and infrastructure
Batuan passed an ordinance banning the rearing of animals near any public road within the town.
The town came up with an ordinance regarding animal care.
The ordinance is looking after the safety of motorists who may get entangled with animals reared by the road side.
This is needed to avoid accidents on the road that may involve animals roaming by the road side, causing risk and danger to motorists.
Farm livestock, horses, goats, swine and others are no longer allowed by the Batuan road side as they can cross the street and cause serious risk to motorists.
Failure to tend to the flock may increase the risk to motorists, the ordinance implies.
The animals may also contribute to damage to infrastructure as well.
Catholic faithful ask Saco to reconsider decision to withdraw as Tagbilaran bishop-elect
Catholic faithful of Tagbilaran lamented the decision of Fr. Garardo Saco to withdraw his acceptance to become the bishop of Tagbilaran.
Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy said Saco’s decision caused profound sadness among the faithful who remain without any shepherd as the see of Tagbilaran remains vacant.
Uy and other personalities said they respect Saco’s decision to withdraw his election as bishop.
Plenty of faithful felt they lost a wonderful shepherd that could lead the diocese.
They said Saco possesses the gifts and charism to be a bishop and leads the flock of Tagbilaran.
Another person who expressed lament was former Jagna mayor Joseph Rañola as he called on Saco to reconsider the decision and accept the election as bishop.
Rañola said Boholanos need a leader like Saco and thus the latter should reconsider the withdrawal.
Saco stunned the Catholic community when he announced that he would no longer be pursuing the office and opts to remain as an ordinary priest.
Saco cited his limits for the change of heart and opted to remain as a priest, shunning the office of the bishop that carries plenty of responsibilities.
LGU Alicia opens community college to expand access to tertiary education
The local government unit (LGU) of Alicia has launched and opened its community college called Colegio de Alicia.
Mayor Junjun Ayuban launched the school and fulfilled a campaign promise seeking to expand access of local residents to tertiary education.
The said college is now looking to start operations after gaining authorization from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
The CHED authorization allows the school to offer college courses such as Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher Education major in computer programming and Bachelor of Science in Information Systems.
The authorization was handed by CHED-7 regional director Filomena Dayagbil to Ayuban at the CHED-7 regional office.
Ayuban said the opening of the school shows his administration’s dedication in providing accessible and quality education.
The mayor said the school is being funded by the P20 million allocation and there were no loans taken out.
Officials hope the community college may be able to provide additional opportunities to Alicia college students, providing instruction in the field of technology and education.
The college hopes to follow through the efforts to develop the town in the future.
Reports said the institution has established computer laboratories as it prepares to welcome students to its new campus.
San Miguel brings in the fun as town celebrates simpler fiesta amid global crisis
San Miguel mayor Ian Gil Mendez said his town brought in the fun as the town celebrated its annual fiesta on May 8, 2026.
The town’s preparations culminated in a celebration of the town’s patron saint.
Mendez provided a sneak peek on what the town was up to leading to the fiesta during his interview on Open Forum on May 4, 2026.
He said each barangay in the town had an activity aligned with the town fiesta.
May is Bohol’s fiesta month and several town or barangay fiestas are celebrated during this month.
San Miguel is known to focus on cultural and tourism dimensions of the celebrations, a departure from the usual fiesta celebrations in Bohol.
This year, the fiesta was celebrated in a different light by tightening the belts due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, which saw fuel prices soaring.
Mendez said compared to the previous years, the town decided to celebrate a simpler fiesta and trimmed down the celebrations to the bare essentials.
This year, the town opted not to hire entertainers imported from other places.
The mayor said that simpler events and cost-effective shows were on display during the fiesta.
The town focused more on sporting events, talent shows, and even a job fair and service caravan to name a few.
There was also an alumni homecoming event that brought back memories and fun without totally breaking the bank.
Columnist thinks someone raked in money from crisis as fuel prices remain volatile
Bohol Tribune columnist Donald Sevilla thinks someone is having a windfall from the crisis affecting the country.
He said while many are struggling to cope with the crisis, there are people that simply are laughing their way to the bank.
Sevilla said this as he set expectations that fuel prices remained volatile because of the precarious ceasefire and the conflict not seeing an end in sight.
Sevilla told Ardy Araneta-Batoy that some entities are now having pockets filled to the brim as gas prices move.
After several days, Sevilla said it can be seen clearly who is having a windfall and who’s left with an empty bag.
Sevilla said one of the suggestions to cushion the impact of fuel price spiral is to temporarily suspend the excise tax and value-added tax on fuel products and reduce the cost of buying these products.
Sevilla said in other countries, they quickly suspended the collection of these taxes to help the people cope with the rising prices but the Philippines is a different story.
In the Philippines, Congress granted the president powers to suspend excise tax collection but opted to suspend the tax imposed on kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas and allowed continued tax collection for all other fuel products.
It seems economic managers nixed the suspension of these taxes as these measures may injure the revenue collection.
Sevilla said the loss in revenue can be offset by savings and this will work only if the leaders will sacrifice.
He suggested that the officials start sacrificing by taking a pay cut and use the saved money to plug into the reduced revenues following the suspension of tax collection on fuel products.
He said the pay cut is sufficient to settle the shortfall in revenue when taxes are temporarily not collected.
Other countries can coax their leaders to take sacrifices, which Filipino leaders cannot do, he said.
He said leaders should give up something as these things cannot ruffle their feathers and still they can live comfortably even with a pay cut.
He said leadership qualities emerge during the time of crisis and the crisis will be the ultimate test whether or not the leader really wants to lead or to enrich oneself.