GaHer adopts BBM strategy For orderly UPLIFT payout
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA)— Basta Beripikado, Mabilis ang Serbisyo.
This sums up the realizations of the majority of over 700 residents of Garcia Hernandez (GaHer) 30 barangays who were beneficiaries of the Unified Package of Livelihoods, Industry, Food and Transport (UPLIFT) which the national government coursed through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
During the UPLIFT Pay-out August 12, GaHer Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Arbit Noroño said everybody pooled effort to facilitate the orderly and fast conduct of the processes that by noontime, about 70 percent of the beneficiaries have received their P2,000 cash assistance.
The financial assistance is intended to protect the livelihoods, industry, food and transport needs of the poor as well as jumpstart the sluggish economy affected by the Middle East crisis and the war in Russia.
Under the DSWD UPLIFT program, members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and Walang Gutom Program get one time P2,000, while those barangay residents who are non 4Ps member but were found out to be near-poor based on the PSA’s Community Based Monitoring System (CBMS) and low income Social Security System (SSS) members can get P2,000 every month from July to December.
This is to secure that 7.5 million Filipino households can get at least P2,000 for 4Ps members which are about 3.5 million, and July to December for the near poor and 25% above the poverty threshold which is estimated at 2.5 million and the low income workers registered at the SSS counted at 1.5 million.
Actually, the process was fast because we have helping us Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) as one of the requirements is to have a national ID, so they are here, (to verify the person through the national biometrics database) and hand in IDS and issue it on the spot; we have personnel from Land Bank of the Philippines as one requirement is for the beneficiary to have a bank account, or GCash account, that those who do not have automated teller machine access, they can open at the payout venue, Noroño shared.
According to the beneficiaries themselves, previous 4Ps payouts were disorderly and chaotic as people generally flock to where the tellers are without personal verification, which is key that unlocks the financial assistance.
“We required them to follow BBM, which is Basta Beripikado, Mabilis ang Serbisyo,” he said.
That means, all beneficiaries who come to the payout are already verified, and for the few who are not verified yet, the PSA, LandBank and GCash are there to assist on site.
“Dako kayo og tabang ang PSA, aron makakuha ko og national ID para makadawat ko sa payout,” (The presence of the PSA registration team is a huge help for me to get the national ID which is a requirement to get the cash payout) says Alberto Galimba Galorpot, 69 years old from Barangay Manaba.
In his 69 years, Galorpot, who works as a farmer, has not had a chance to get a government issued-identification cards, which can verify his identity.
The same government issued ID is also a requirement for people to open bank accounts, to facilitate government cash social assistance.
Learning from past experiences where cash payouts leave beneficiaries short-changed, the government has moved toward financial inclusivity for the beneficiaries, that opening of bank accounts for the facilitated transfer of the cash assistance became the standard.
For this, with verified and established bank accounts now, aside from the one time P2,000 cash payout, 4Ps beneficiaries also get a one-time top-up of P2,000 in the new Landbank or GCash Account, according to the DSWD.
On the other hand, after the initial P2,000 payout, those PSA identified near poor and the 25% of population above the poverty threshold will get a digital payout in the next five months, though either their Landbank accounts or GCash.
For the low-income households as determined by the SSS members are in the CBMS, who are employed and has a monthly salary credit of P20,00 and below and has contributed at least once in 2025 or 2026 and with an SSS disbursement account, where the digital pay-out is downloaded, SSS information officer Hazel Navarro explained. (PIABohol)
NATIONAL ID VERIFICATION. The PSA has lent its registration team’s presence during UPLIFT Payouts to serve the remaining residents who have no government issued identification cards and are not in the government database, so the government is assured that individual beneficiaries are the ones getting the financial assistance and not just anybody else. (PIAbohol)
CASH OR E-WALLET. UPLIFT beneficiaries get one-time cash assistance and would have the succeeding aids in digital payouts through Landbank or any e-wallet the beneficiary is subscribed into. Getting beneficiaries pre-verified before the pay-out tremendously facilitated the orderly processes, according to beneficiaries themselves. (PIABOHOL)
Murang Kuryente Coalition seeks affordable, renewable power for Filipino homes
Murang Kuryente Partylist Rep. Atty. Art C. Yap has launched the Murang Kuryente Coalition Inc., a nonstock, nonprofit organization bringing together government agencies, financial institutions and renewable energy stakeholders to expand Filipino households’ access to affordable and clean electricity.
The launch took place at the Bayanihan Center in Pasig City. Yap, serving as founding chairperson, secured the participation of the Department of Energy, the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) and the Government Service Insurance System as launch partners.
Coalition President Ervin Carlo Alcano said the group aims to serve as a bridge between government, industry and consumers in advancing the country’s shift to clean, affordable energy.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin inducted the coalition’s first set of officers, led by Yap as founding chairperson.
Also inducted were Alcano as president; Virgilio Luzares as vice president for Luzon; Irish Sugar Verra as vice president for Visayas; Marielito Perpetua as vice president for Mindanao; Norman Taclibon as secretary; Roel Bebero as treasurer; and Dominic Dexon So as public relations officer.
In her guest of honor address, Garin pledged the department’s support for the coalition, saying lower electricity costs would free up more household budget for food and other necessities for ordinary Filipino consumers.
She said she hoped the coalition would help move the country closer to its renewable energy targets, which call for renewables to make up 35% of the power generation mix by 2030 and more than 50% by 2040.
Garin also cited the department’s push to empower Filipinos to generate their own electricity through rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems.
She noted that roughly 80% of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 2026 State of the Nation Address touched on energy-related concerns, and called on the coalition to help the department learn from conditions on the ground, adding that DOE remained open to MKC’s input on resolving the sector’s challenges.
Sister of rubella-caused disease appeals: ‘Get kids immunized’
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA)—Speaking as a daughter whose mother had a bout with German Measles and a sister of a brother with a mental health dis-order as an after effect of Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), a public health doctor appeals to mothers who, after seeing viral social media posts, refused to have their kids immunized against measles and rubella (MR).
“As a doctor, as an ate, and as a sister of someone who lives with the consequences of congenital rubella, I hope that our story will not become your family’s story,” Dr. Shannen Jaye O. Langcamon, whose Facebook account is SJ OL, appealed for parents to look for proper information and health teaching rather than believing on fake news.
Dr. Langcamon’s shared in her facebok account that she has a mother who, in her childhood, did not have the privilege of getting fully immunized.
Being born from farming parents, her option of getting the vaccine from private clinics, was distant, she noted.
Sa pagkabata ni mama, dili pa kaayo kusog ang mga libre nga bakuna batok sa measles ug rubella sa centers/RHUs. (During mama’s childhood, free vaccines against measles and rubella from centers and Rural Health Units was not a trend yet, she narrated.
That time too, health information and health education was not as advanced that getting the full immunization was not on top of priorities.
When her mother got pregnant in 1997, in her first trimester of bearing a baby boy, she had German Measles or now commonly called Rubella.
One for the most dangerous effects for rubella, when a pregnant woman especially when gets it in her first trimester, is the effect it can give to a developing baby.
This is called Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), she said.
When the baby boy was born, he was with a congenital deafness, deaf from birth, and he also has aphasia, a brain disorder that makes it hard to talk, write, and understand words.
The baby boy, named Brandon was later diagnoses with schizophrenia, a mental health disorder.
Ug mao kini ang condition nga among gituohan nga nahitabo kang Brandon, she said in her social media post. (This is the condition that we believed happened to Brandon.)
“Imagine if Mama had gotten full immunization in the 1970s, imagine if there was MR-simultaneous immunization activity (MR SIA) for measles and rubella then, will my brother be like this?”
Had Mama not contracted Rubella, maybe we do not have this fear when Brandon will have his schizophrenic acttacks. Yes, he will have tantrums at home.
She recalls countless vases shattered, how they can be wounded or bruised because he can just throw a punch, out of the blue.
Complicating the problem is the lack of a psych ward in Bohol hospitals for Brandon’s care, and Cebu may have beds but she has already seen how psychologists would have a problem diagnosing the patient who has difficulty in communicating his thoughts.
“If he had not been in this condition, maybe he could have been a seam, following Papa’s footsteps as a seaman and now a boat captain. Or he could have been a singer, a lawyer,” she shares her imagination.
And thus, she calls for parents: Please have your children vaccinated during this measles rubella simultaneous immunization activity. It is not just to protect your children, but the entire community, including pregnant women and vulnerable population.
“One vaccine may prevent a lifetime of complications, protect your children, protect your family,” she appealed.
Meanwhile, a practicing pediatrician for more than 2 decades said she can see the difference in her patient’s charts.
Between fully vaccinated and not fully vaccinated, those fully vaccinated patients have very minimal to no sick entry, while those not fully vaccinated or no vaccines at all has sick weekly entries, Dr. Ria Maslog shared in her facebook account.
“Mommies, science is research based, Vaccines work, Vaccines are safe. So protect your children! Be vaccinated!” she urged.
The MR SIA which is free, and continues until August 25, just go to your nearest rural health center or facility. (PIAbohol)
SCIENCE VERSUS FAKE NEWS. Department of Health (DOH) medial office Dr Faith Curaraton and nurse Machiavelia Caliao detailed the science behind the vaccines, which, through the years, have significantly controlled disease-spreads. However, an instigation by social media influencers to a naive population in enough to make parents doubt. (PIAbohol)
Tagbilaran City Council thanks Bohol Light for suspending collection of bill deposit
The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Tagbilaran commended Bohol Light Company Incorporated (BLCI) for suspending the collection of bill deposit that could affect at least 22,000 consumers in the city.
The council passed yesterday, Tuesday, August 11, Proposed Resolution No. 247-26 expressing their gratitude for the decision of BLCI to temporarily stop the collection of the bill deposit.
The resolution was authored and sponsored by Tagbilaran City Councilor Leonides Borja, chairperson of the Committee on Public Utilities and Franchises, and was approved during the regular session presided by Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala.
According to the council, although the bill deposit was intended to ensure proper payment and continuous electric service, its suspension will provide immediate financial relief to households and small businesses.
The council also commended BLCI for showing “good faith”, understanding and responding to the community’s concerns through the suspension of the implementation.
A copy of the resolution will be sent to Mayor Jane Yap, to the officials and management of BLCI, and to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for their information and guidance.
Boholano medical workers complete tough Ironman 70.3 Cebu race
Three Boholano medical practitioners successfully finished the difficult 2026 Ironman 70.3 in Lapu-Lapu Cebu last Sunday, August 9, together with 1,417 athletes from 48 countries.
The Boholanos who completed the race were Dr. BG Arcay, son of Panglao Mayor Boy Arcay; Dr. Normandy Albuera, medical doctor and triathlete; and Mary Grace Torres, nurse-midwife, BFP Bohol firewoman, triathlete and ultramarathoner.
The three split the three legs of the competition.
Albuera raced the 1.9-kilometer swimming, Torres the 90-kilometer biking, while Arcay the 21.1-kilometer running.
According to Torres, they did not win a medal but finishing the race was already a big achievement for them because of the difficulty of the race conditions.
“Wala mi kadaog, pero nahuman namo ang race bisan pa sa kalisod,” said Torres.
Torres said this was one of the hardest races she has experienced, especially due to the strong current and waves in the sea and strong wind on the bike course.
She herself finished the 90-km bike leg in 3 hours and 40 minutes, despite the difficult road and wind conditions.
Arcay, who is also a doctor and triathlete, had just arrived from the United States last Thursday, August 6, or three days before the race, before he faced the 21.1-km running leg.
Albuera, a medical doctor and triathlete, is also among the athletes involved in sports apparel modeling in Cebu.
The Ironman 70.3 consists of 1.9-km swimming, 90-km biking and 21.1-km running.
In the 2026 Lapu-Lapu Cebu edition, 17 professional athletes also joined among the international participants.
For the three Boholano medical practitioners, crossing the finish line was their big victory after a grueling and difficult competition.
20-year-old student faces infanticide charges in Bohol after infant’s body found in trash
The Buenavista Municipal Police Station has already filed an infanticide case against a 20-year-old student who admitted to throwing the body of her dead infant in the trash, according to Police Capt. Waldo Batad, chief of Buenavista MPS.
According to Batad, the police filed the complaint with the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on August 10, 2026, and the police consider the case solved after the surrender and admission of the suspect.
The student surrendered on August 4, together with her mother, and admitted that she gave birth to a male baby that was about seven months in the womb inside her boarding house.
According to her statement, the infant was already dead when she gave birth.
She hid her pregnancy out of fear and later placed the body of the infant in the trash bin at Sitio Tugbongan, Barangay Cangawa, Buenavista.
The student was brought to Francisco Dagohoy Hospital in Inabanga for treatment after the police found her pale and weak condition.
The infanticide complaint is now with the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office for proper legal action.
San Miguel student charged over “bomb threat prank” at vocational school
A 21-year-old student of San Miguel Technical Vocational High School in the town of San Miguel, Bohol has been charged with a criminal case after he made a dangerous bomb threat.
Police Major Joseph Lopena, spokesperson of the Bohol Provincial Police Office, revealed that the suspect was identified only by the alias “Rey” who is also a student of the same school.
In his official extrajudicial confession with the help of his lawyer, Rey admitted that he was behind the post threatening the school by saying that its “building will be destroyed.”
He explained that there was no real bomb and he only did it as a “joke” or prank to get the attention of his classmates after his younger sibling was allegedly bullied.
Because of that action, the suspect was formally charged with violation of Presidential Decree No. 1727, or the Anti-Bomb Joke Law.
The suspect is now in the custody of PNP San Miguel.
BM Balite pushes for provincewide standard helmet rule for motorcycle riders
3rd District Board Member Dionisio Joseph Balite is seeking the implementation of a province-wide mandatory standard helmet for all motorcycle riders in Bohol to prevent serious injuries and deaths from road accidents.
Balite filed the proposed ordinance during the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan yesterday Tuesday, August 11, which requires both motorcycle drivers and back riders to wear standard protective helmets across the province.
The session was presided by Vice Gov. Nicanor Besas and Senior Board Member Tita Baja served as floor leader.
According to Balite, motorcycles are one of the most common and accessible modes of travel for Boholanos going to work, school and the market, but convenience of travel should not come at the expense of safety.
He noted that despite existing national traffic regulations, there are still motorcycle riders in Bohol who travel without helmets or use non-standard protective gear and sometimes these are not properly secured.
Balite also cited Tagbilaran City Ordinance No. C-386, Series of 2023, which requires motorcycle drivers and back riders to wear standard protective helmets within the city.
According to him, a similar province-wide policy would help enforce uniform motorcycle safety standards in all towns of Bohol.
Balite explained that the proposed ordinance aims first to protect lives and not just to impose penalties, especially since motorcycle accidents can have long-term effects on families and communities.
He added that although a helmet may look simple as protective equipment, it helps reduce the severity of head injuries during accidents.
The proposed ordinance was passed on First Reading and referred to the SP Committee on Peace and Order and Public Safety for further review, public consultations and deliberation.
However, 1st District Board Member Benjie Arcamo called out BM Balite because there is already a national law mandating all motorcycle drivers and back riders to wear standard protective helmets.
Arcamo explained that this is already provided under Republic Act No. 10054 or the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, which aims to prevent serious head injuries and deaths during motorcycle accidents.
Catigbian set to become 3rd LGU in Bohol to implement Paleng-QR Ph Plus
The Local Government of Catigbian is ready to launch the Paleng-QR Ph Plus Program, a national program that aims to expand the use of cashless payments in public markets and local transportation.
The program is targeted to be launched on September 24, 2026, which will make Catigbian the third LGU in Bohol to implement it after Tagbilaran City and Valencia.
The preparations were discussed during a meeting with Conrado Cabandi Jr., Bank Officer IV of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Visayas Regional Office, together with local officials and business representatives.
Attending the meeting were members of the Sangguniang Bayan led by Vice Mayor Jun Angilan, Municipal Treasurer Flor Mae Gahi, Catigbian Business Club President Haidee Tayag, and other department heads.
The Paleng-QR Ph Plus, a joint program of the BSP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), aims to expand the use of QR-based digital payments among vendors, consumers and local transportation operators.
The goal of LGU Catigbian’s preparations is to ensure the town’s readiness for the implementation of the program and for the wider use of cashless transactions among residents and businesses.
Tagbilaran City seeks sisterhood agreement with Mandaluyong City
Tagbilaran City is seeking to enter into a sisterhood agreement with Mandaluyong City to expand cooperation in local governance, tourism, culture, heritage preservation, education and economic development.
Mayor Jane Yap requested authority from the Sangguniang Panlungsod to negotiate, enter into and sign the proposed partnership agreement with Mandaluyong City.
Yap formally submitted her request to the council on July 31, 2026, through Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer Adam Relson L. Jala, including the authority to execute the documents needed for the agreement, and it was tackled during the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod yesterday, August 11.
Through the sisterhood agreement, they plan to strengthen the exchange of best practices, technical knowledge and new approaches in local governance, including digital transformation and administrative innovations.
Also included in the planned cooperation are tourism and culture, heritage preservation, education, business and trade development.
Earlier, Tagbilaran City was already part of sisterhood agreements, including the agreement with San Juan City led by Mayor Francis Zamora and signed on July 16, 2026.
The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between the two local government units (LGU) on important matters such as local governance, tourism, culture, economic development, disaster resilience, health, education and environmental protection, including other programs for the benefit of the two cities.
The agreement is expected to strengthen the relationship between Tagbilaran and Mandaluyong and provide more opportunities for future projects and cooperation between the two cities.
Lila mayor and DENR discuss possible return of whale shark watching
Lila Mayor Arturo Jed Piollo and officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) discussed the possible return of whale shark watching in Bohol during their meeting on August 11.
Piollo met with DENR-7 Regional Executive Director Audi Salac, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Wilson Henson, and Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Edgar Ricaforte to talk about continuing the attraction under environmentally sustainable practices.
Piollo expressed Lila’s support for environmental protection while the possibility of bringing back whale shark watching as a tourism attraction was discussed.
Territorial and land concerns of Lila were also discussed during the meeting.
Following this, the Mayor asked the DENR to help recover large portions of Lila’s territory that were not included in previous cadastral surveys, including areas affected by erroneous cadastral surveys.
He also requested that the release of lands owned by the municipality be expedited.
Piollo stressed that Lila will continue to support environmental protection, especially in planting more trees to prevent flooding and soil erosion and to preserve water sources for future generations.
On another matter, Piollo separately asked the DPWH 3rd Engineering District to strengthen road safety measures on the national highway in Lila, including speed-limit enforcement in crowded areas and school zones, installation of rumble strips, and replacement of old parapets with rubber roller guard rails.
According to Piollo, the DPWH has already conducted inspection and assessment following their request.
The meeting with DENR focused on Lila’s efforts to develop tourism while protecting the environment, especially if the plan for the possible return of whale shark watching in Bohol pushes through.
Tagbilaran council urges DOH to speed up opening of psychiatric facility in Bohol
The Tagbilaran City Council urged the Department of Health (DOH) to speed up the operation of the psychiatric facility at the Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Center in Cortes, Bohol, to bring mental health services closer to patients.
The 16th Sangguniang Panlungsod approved Proposed Resolution No. 229-26 during the last regular session, under the leadership of Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala.
The resolution authored by Councilor Nerio Zamora II and co-authored by Councilor Gemma Inting stated that the infrastructure of the facility is almost complete but the psychiatric unit has not yet fully operated.
According to the council, mental health patients and their families are forced to seek services at distant facilities, which increases their costs and makes it difficult to access psychiatric care quickly.
The resolution asked the DOH to expedite compliance with the remaining requirements for the operation of the facility, including staffing, equipment, licensing, accreditation and funding.
The council also cited the 1987 Constitution and Republic Act No. 11036 or the Mental Health Act, which provide for the right of Filipinos to accessible, affordable and quality mental health services.
A copy of the resolution will be sent to the DOH Secretary, DOH Region VII Director and Medical Center Chief of the Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Center for appropriate and immediate action.
Bohol to release ₱33.27-M in aid to all 1,109 barangays
The provincial government of Bohol has started the distribution of ₱33.27 million in financial assistance for all 1,109 barangays in the province, with 275 already receiving ₱30,000 each as of August 7.
The aid is being distributed by the Provincial Treasurer’s Office together with Local Government Affairs to augment the barangays’ funds for projects that directly address their needs.
Governor Aris Aumentado and Vice Governor Nick Besas led the distribution in 10 towns from August 1 to 7, with a total of ₱8.25 million turned over to the barangays.
The first to receive were 22 barangays in Mabini with ₱660,000, followed by 23 barangays in Pitogo with ₱690,000 and 44 barangays in Ubay with ₱1.32 million.
22 barangays in Catigbian also received ₱660,000, 14 barangays in Cortes received ₱420,000 and 31 barangays in Balilihan received ₱930,000.
On August 6, 50 barangays in Inabanga received ₱1.5 million, 35 barangays in Buenavista received ₱1.05 million and 24 barangays in Getafe received ₱720,000.
On August 7, 10 barangays in Panglao received ₱300,000.
The provincial government emphasized that the ₱30,000 aid is separate from the minimum ₱200,000 fund for priority projects of each barangay.
Each barangay will choose and implement projects based on their needs.
The provincial government aims to provide the aid to all 1,109 barangays within August, with a total fund of ₱33.27 million.
Of the 275 barangays that have already been given aid, this is 24.8 percent of the total target.
Baclayon to install ₱35-M filtration system amid water complaints – Mayor Uy
The Municipal Government of Baclayon is seeking to solve the problem with water supply and complaints of cloudy and rusty-smelling water, according to Mayor Alvin Uy.
According to Uy, the water flow is strong in the line going to the Acacia area in Payahan, but it does not reach consumers after one corner where there is a tee and lotto outlet.
The LGU will replace that line today, Tuesday, with a new PE pipe to address the possible clogged portion.
Uy also explained that the cloudy and rusty-smelling water may be due to stirred-up sediment at the bottom of the line after a brownout, and not from the pipes since PE and PVC are used in the Baclayon Waterworks System.
To address the water quality problem, the LGU is pushing through with the project for two filtration systems worth ₱35 million.
The bidding was held on August 3.
Uy asked consumers to directly report complaints to him or to the Baclayon Waterworks System so these can be acted on quickly.
Uy added that the LGU Baclayon is really working to provide proper service.
₱277.5M in road projects proposed for Tagbilaran for 2027
The Tagbilaran City Engineer’s Office has proposed ₱277.5 million in funding for 14 road concreting projects in various barangays of Tagbilaran City as part of the 2027 Annual Investment Program (AIP).
According to Tagbilaran City Councilor Charles Cabalit, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Engineering and Public Works, the projects may be funded by the city government or the national government, with the help of 1st District Rep. John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II to have the projects included in the General Appropriations Act (GAA).
He added that the proposal was formally endorsed by City Engineer Teodoro Estoque to Mayor Jane Yap and was also tackled by the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
The goal of the projects is to address the severe deterioration of roads that affect the safe and smooth travel of motorists, commuters and pedestrians, especially during bad weather.
The Cabawan-Carbon Road has the largest proposed allocation at ₱70 million for a 2-kilometer section, followed by Upper Sto. Niño Street in Dao at ₱30 million.
Other major projects include the TCC-to-Janseen Heights Road at ₱27 million; R. Enerio-to-Bantol Street at ₱25.5 million; and Toledo Street and E.B. Aumentado Street at ₱20 million each.
The areas covered by the projects include Dampas, Tiptip, Cabawan, Poblacion 1 and 2, Mansasa and San Isidro.
According to the CEO, road right-of-way (RROW) issues in most of the areas must first be resolved before the projects can begin.
J. Borja Street and Mendoza Street already have established RROW, while other areas still need road widening, negotiations with affected landowners and affidavits of consent.
According to Estoque, RROW and road expansion issues must be resolved in line with minimum road safety standards to ensure the smooth and proper implementation of the projects.
₱31,960 worth of shabu seized; 24-year-old alleged pusher arrested in Talibon
A 24-year-old unemployed man was arrested after police seized 6.3 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱31,960 in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Balintawak, Talibon early Monday morning, August 10.
The suspect was identified as “Jhusoa”, a newly identified street-level individual and alleged drug pusher, and a resident of Barangay San Roque, Talibon.
The Municipal Drug Enforcement Team of the Talibon Municipal Police Station carried out the operation at 12:49 a.m. in Purok 3, Barangay Balintawak, and a police poseur-buyer bought one sachet containing 0.93 grams of suspected shabu.
Five more sachets with a total weight of 3.77 grams were also reportedly recovered from his possession.
Also seized were ₱500 in marked money used in the buy-bust and one green box of Mighty cigarettes allegedly used as a container for shabu.
Police also recovered a white and blue Yamaha XTZ 125 motorcycle allegedly used by the suspect as transportation.
The seized suspected shabu was submitted to the Bohol Provincial Forensic Unit for examination and custody, while the suspect remains detained at the Talibon Police Station as charges for violation of Section 5 and Section 11, Article 2 of R.A. 9165 are being prepared against him.
Lila LGU moves to strengthen road safety after death of municipal administrator
The local government of Lila has moved to strengthen road safety after the 69-year-old municipal administrator of the town died and her husband was injured in a vehicular accident on August 8.
Mayor Arturo Jed Piollo ordered the flags at the municipal hall to be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning for the death of Emma Saletrero Cahiles, 69, municipal administrator of Lila, and a resident of Purok 4, Poblacion.
Her husband, Nemencio Boiser Cahiles, 73, also died in the accident.
According to Piollo, he could not believe that the incident happened while they were on their way to their grandchild’s birthday celebration, and it is a big loss for the LGU Lila.
Because of the incident, Piollo coordinated with the DPWH 3rd Engineering District for the addition of road signages on the national highway in Lila and for the replacement of concrete parapet barriers with stronger and safer barriers.
The mayor also wants the implementation of the 50-kph speed limit on the national highway within the jurisdiction of the DPWH to be reviewed.
According to him, the LGU is ready to implement its speed-limit ordinance from boundary-to-boundary of the town using a speed gun, but it is pending because the national highway is under the jurisdiction of the DPWH, so he wants the policy to be reviewed.
The accident happened at around 6 p.m. on August 8 in Barangay Poblacion.
The white Isuzu aluminum van driven by 21-year-old Joberth John Maldo Palomera was heading to Malinao East from Tagbilaran City when the driver allegedly fell asleep while driving.
The van hit a green Suzuki Multicab pickup parked on the side of the road.
Due to the strong impact, it also hit the concrete barrier and a black Toyota Vios.
The concrete barrier collapsed and Emma was hit by the broken pieces.
The couple was brought to the Dimiao Infirmary where Emma was declared dead.
Nemencio, who was injured, was referred to a hospital in Tagbilaran City for further treatment, but he also died.
Guindulman Blue Port nearing implementation after BFAR scoping and validation
The proposed Guindulman Blue Port is nearing implementation after the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), together with the Provincial Government of Bohol through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) and the LGU of Guindulman, successfully conducted the Project Scoping and Social Validation.
A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) is set to be signed by the various agencies to address the issues raised during the activity.
The activity was attended by Municipal Mayor Hon. Jimmy D. Busano, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, personnel from the Coast Guard and Bantay Dagat, as well as representatives from fisherfolk People’s Organizations (POs), local fish vendors, and other stakeholders.
The project aims to modernize fish-landing operations, improve post-harvest handling and food safety, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase income and resilience of local fishers in support of the blue economy.
Governor Erico Aris Aumentado stressed its importance through his official statement:
“A Project Scoping and Social Validation conducted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), together with the Provincial Government through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) and LGU Guindulman, is an important step toward the implementation of the Guindulman Blue Port.
Through the Guindulman Blue Port, we will be able to modernize fish-landing operations and increase the income and livelihood resilience of our fisherfolk.
This is a step toward a more modern, responsible, and inclusive fisheries sector in Bohol.”
Panglao seeks additional fire trucks for stronger fire response
The Municipal Government of Panglao is requesting additional fire trucks and emergency response resources due to the continued growth of tourism in the town.
Mayor Edgardo “Boy” Arcay made the request during a meeting with Fire Chief Superintendent Fred Trajeras Jr., deputy chief for operations of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and SFO3 Philip Fuderanan, OIC of the Panglao Fire Station.
According to Arcay, the number of tourists, residents, hotels, resorts, restaurants and other establishments in the town is increasing, so fire protection and emergency response also need to be strengthened.
The mayor explained that additional fire trucks will help in responding faster to fires and other emergencies, as well as in protecting lives and property.
Coordination between the local government and the BFP and other national government agencies will also continue for stronger emergency preparedness and response in Panglao.
23-year-old watchlisted drug suspect arrested in Tagbilaran; ₱57,800 worth of shabu seized
A 23-year-old watchlisted drug suspect was arrested in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Cogon, Tagbilaran City early Sunday, with 8.5 grams of suspected shabu worth an estimated ₱57,800 seized.
The operation was conducted by the Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) under the leadership of Provincial Director PCol. Patricio Degay Jr., together with personnel from the Police Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU) and Tagbilaran City Police Station.
The operation was led by PLT Noubell Padernal, together with PLT Dave Surio, under the direct supervision of PLTCOL Joemar Pomarejos, chief of the BPPO Police Intelligence Unit/PDEU.
“Ruben”, 23, who police identified as a street-level individual on their watchlist, was arrested at 12:34 a.m. on August 9 in Purok 8.
Aside from the suspected shabu, buy-bust money, a cellphone and a motorcycle allegedly used in the drug transaction were also seized.
The suspect will face charges for alleged violation of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
2 overstaying foreigners arrested by BI in Bohol
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested two overstaying foreigners in separate operations in the province of Bohol on July 30.
According to Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, the arrests were carried out by operatives of the BI Regional Intelligence Operations Unit 7 (RIOU-7) in coordination with the Panglao Municipal Police Station and Inabanga Municipal Police Station.
Those arrested were Florian Clemens Alexander Klingler, 35, a German who was apprehended in Das-ag, Poblacion, Panglao, and Dimitar Tsakov Maknev, 43, a Bulgarian who was apprehended in Poblacion, Inabanga.
The BI found that the two violated the conditions of their stay in the country after failing to maintain valid immigration status.
Klingler only presented receipts for visa extension which showed that his permit expired in October 2025, while Maknev was not able to present any immigration documents during the operation.
Viado commended the BI regional units for strengthening law enforcement outside Metro Manila through coordination with local police.
The commissioner said this sends a clear message that there is no place in the Philippines for foreigners who violate the law, and that they will continue to locate, arrest, and deport anyone who abuses the privilege of staying in the country.
Calape MPS investigates school threats spread on Facebook
The Calape Municipal Police Station (MPS) has started an investigation into threats against several schools in the town that were spread through Facebook.
The police assured that they are taking the incident seriously in order to identify and hold legally accountable those responsible for causing fear and concern among students, parents, teachers, and the entire community.
To ensure everyone’s safety, Calape MPS has already coordinated with the Department of Education (DepEd), the local government, and other government agencies.
The police are also urging the public to remain calm and to avoid sharing or forwarding unverified information.
They are calling on the community that instead of sharing such messages, it is better to take a screenshot and immediately report it to the nearest police station so it can be given proper action, while stressing that the safety and peace of the town remain their top priority.
Geopark marker unveiled in Tagbilaran, promotes UNESCO Global Geopark status of Bohol
A Geopark Marker was unveiled last Saturday at Rizal Park in the city as a permanent reminder of Bohol’s status as the first UNESCO Global Geopark in the Philippines.
The ceremony was led by Governor Aris Aumentado, represented by Vice-Governor Nic Besas, together with UNACOM Secretary General Ivan Anthony Henares, Deputy Executive Director Lindsay Barrientos, representatives of partner agencies, and Bohol Island Geopark Program Manager Joanne Pinat.
The marker will serve as a reminder to Boholanos of the province’s UNESCO designation and of their responsibility to protect and properly manage Bohol’s natural and cultural heritage.
It was emphasized that the geopark can serve as a foundation for learning, strengthening cultural pride, sustainable tourism, and community welfare.
Similar markers to be placed in various geosites across the province will help raise public awareness of Bohol’s natural treasures and encourage the community to protect them.
Gov. Aumentado also thanked UNACOM Philippines for its continued support for Bohol and the Geopark program.
The unveiling of the marker is part of efforts to make residents and visitors more aware of Bohol’s UNESCO Global Geopark status, while strengthening public knowledge on protecting the province’s geological, environmental, and cultural treasures.
Catigbian’s ₱61-M regional food terminal called “Dakong Garbo” by Mayor Oliva to boost food security
Catigbian Mayor Benjie Oliva called the groundbreaking of the ₱61-million Regional Food Terminal a “dakong garbo” of the town, which is expected to strengthen food security and provide a better market for farmers and fisherfolk.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held on August 7 in Barangay Poblacion Weste for the facility that will serve as a central hub for the collection, storage, processing, and distribution of agricultural and fishery products.
According to Oliva, the project will help increase the production and quality of local products and expand their market not only in Catigbian but throughout Bohol.
The project is the result of collaboration between the LGU Catigbian and Food Terminal Inc. (FTI).
Also present at the groundbreaking and capsule-laying ceremony were Governor Aris Aumentado, Vice Mayor Esteban Angilan Jr., members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and FTI officials, including Atty. Oliver Dicdican, Atty. Nicolas Aranilla Jr., and Tristan Jasper Udtohan.
The construction of the Regional Food Terminal, which is the first facility of its kind in Bohol and Central Visayas, is one of the promises of Mayor Benjie Oliva that was fulfilled after he committed to it during his first State of the Municipality Address (SOMA) in June 2026, during the Katigbawan Festival and Catigbian Foundation Day.
₱70-M Abachanan bridge opens in Sierra Bullones
The ₱70-million Abachanan Bridge in Purok 7, Barangay Abachanan was inaugurated and turned over, and is expected to provide safer and easier travel for residents after decades of dangerous river crossing.
The blessing and turnover of the bridge was led by 3rd District Rep. Kristine Alexie Tutor.
According to her, the long-awaited project has finally been completed and residents no longer have to fear crossing, especially at night.
The bridge is expected to benefit residents, farmers, students, and motorists through faster and safer travel and by making the transport of products and services easier.
The project was funded by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bohol 3rd District Engineering Office in the amount of ₱70 million as part of the development of infrastructure in the upland areas of Bohol.
During the inspection, Tutor also ordered the assessment of the area beside the bridge for possible slope protection to protect the structure.
She also thanked the residents of Barangay Abachanan led by Barangay Captain Edwin Perocho for their support and asked them to take care of the new bridge.
Bohol tourist police gets new chief to boost tourist spot security
PCapt. Ariel Aspiras was appointed as the new acting chief of the Bohol Tourist Police Unit, replacing PCapt. Janice Parcon who was transferred to the Women and Children Protection Desk of the Bohol Provincial Police Office (BPPO).
According to PMaj. Joseph Lopena, Public Information Officer of the Bohol PPO and head of the Police Community Affairs Development Unit (PCADU), the reassignment took effect on July 22, 2026, under the order of PCol. Patricio Degay Jr.
In his first official activity, Aspiras led a courtesy visit to the Provincial Capitol to strengthen coordination with the capitol in maintaining security at tourist destinations.
They were received by Gov. Aris Aumentado, Rep. Vanessa Aumentado, and Provincial Administrator Aster Caberte.
Following this, Aspiras said that the Tourist Police Unit will strengthen foot, roving, and mobile patrols to increase police visibility, prevent crime, and ensure the safety of tourists and residents through strong coordination with LGUs and tourism stakeholders.
Gang recruitment in Tagbilaran schools flagged as serious issue
Gang recruitment in Tagbilaran City schools is now being considered a serious issue, along with the worsening lack of respect for teachers, so city officials will implement a community-wide approach to address the problem.
This was found during the hearing of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Peace, Order and Public Safety led by Councilor Fausto “Bebot” Budlong, where school administrators warned that gangs are no longer just a threat to students but also to teachers.
Representatives from the Office of the City Mayor, Tagbilaran City Police Station, City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWD), Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Tagbilaran Peoples Council, Councilors Charles Cabalit and Leonides “Edi” Borja, and administrators of various public and private schools attended the hearing.
According to school administrators, gang recruitment continues while the number of students who are defiant and disrespectful toward school authorities is also increasing.
Teachers also revealed that they are having difficulty enforcing discipline because of limitations under the Child Protection Policy, which sets the actions they can take against erring students.
Because of this, the committee agreed that stopping gangsterism is not only the responsibility of schools, but requires the united effort of families, the community, police, local government, and other sectors.
The committee of Budlong received recommendations to be presented to the Sangguniang Panlungsod and forwarded to the Office of the City Mayor for possible policies and interventions against gangsterism in schools.
Top 10 most wanted in Bohol arrested in dauis over drug case
A Top 10 Most Wanted Person in Bohol was arrested by the Dauis Police Station for violation of RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The suspect, identified only as alias “Allan,” 36 years old and a resident of Tagbilaran City, was arrested in Barangay San Isidro, Dauis on August 5 by the Tracker Team under PMAJ Yolando M. Bagotchay Jr.
The warrant of arrest was issued by RTC Branch 4, Tagbilaran City for service of sentence in cases of selling and possession of illegal drugs.
The suspect is now in the custody of the Dauis Police Station while awaiting court proceedings.
CIDG 7 police involved in Cortes accident, pedestrian injured
A police personnel assigned to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 7 was involved in a road accident where an unidentified pedestrian was injured on the National Highway, Barangay De La Paz, Cortes, Bohol early morning on August 6.
The incident happened around 1:30 AM in Purok 2, Barangay De La Paz, involving a Hyundai Starex van driven by a 38-year-old PNP personnel assigned to CIDG 7, Camp Francisco Dagohoy, Tagbilaran City.
Based on initial investigation, the van was heading to Tagbilaran City when it hit a pedestrian who crossed the road.
The victim, whose identity is still unknown, was described as wearing a blue shirt and fatigue pants with brown hair.
The victim was rescued by personnel of the Cortes Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CMDRRMO) and immediately taken to Governor Celestino Gallares Medical Center for treatment.
Responding personnel searched for the family or relatives of the victim in Barangay De La Paz and Upper De La Paz, Cortes, but they were not found.
The driver and the vehicle were brought to the Cortes Municipal Police Station for proper custody and disposition.
Police investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Watchlisted drug suspect arrested in Tagbilaran, ₱48,960 worth of shabu seized
A 22-year-old watchlisted drug personality was arrested by police after 7.2 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱48,960 were seized during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Dampas, Tagbilaran City on Tuesday night.
The operation was conducted by operatives of the Tagbilaran City Police Station Drug Enforcement Team (DET) at 6:33 PM on August 5 in Purok 3, Barangay Dampas under the leadership of PLt. Col. Joey Malarre Bicoy, Chief of Police.
The suspect, identified as alias “Ren-ren,” 22 years old, a resident of Barangay Dampas, was tagged by police as a watchlisted street-level drug personality.
Confiscated from the suspect were one sachet of suspected shabu weighing 1.3 grams that was bought by the poseur-buyer, another sachet containing 5.9 grams of suspected shabu, the ₱500 buy-bust money, and a Samsung cellular phone.
The total weight of the confiscated suspected shabu reached 7.2 grams with a standard drug price of ₱48,960.
The suspect is detained at the Tagbilaran City Police Station and will be charged with the appropriate case for violation of RA 9165.
The confiscated suspected shabu will be sent to the PNP Bohol Forensic Unit for laboratory examination and custody.
LTO loses control of LTMS, data of 10m motorists at risk
Personal information of more than 10 million drivers and vehicle owners nationwide is at risk of being leaked after the Land Transportation Office (LTO) lost full control of its Land Transportation Management System (LTMS).
According to LTO Executive Director Atty. Martin Ontog during a hearing of the House Committee on Transportation, the agency remains a “mere user” of its own system because German technology firm Dermalog Identification Systems GmbH — the former IT contractor of the agency — refused to turn over the source code, encryption keys, and full administrative access.
In response to 13 formal demand letters and the violation of a contract that expired last May 13, the LTO said it is preparing to blacklist Dermalog while already coordinating with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to assess security and protect the sensitive data of motorists.
Aumentado vows continued protection after geopark revalidation
The First Revalidation Mission for the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark (BIUGGp) ended on Friday, August 7, 2026 at the Bohol Provincial Capitol.
Governor Erico Aris Aumentado thanked all sectors for their unity in preserving Bohol’s natural, geological, and cultural heritage.
He said the mission’s success shows the province’s shared commitment to protect its environment.
Aumentado expressed hope that UNESCO will grant Bohol the “green card” as renewed recognition of its commitment to the Geopark values.
He also thanked international evaluators Mr. Nire Kagaya and Ms. Songuk Ju, and acknowledged the support of the Provincial Government, LGUs, ICCs, academe, and the private sector.
“Being a UNESCO Global Geopark is more than a title. It is a lasting commitment to protect our environment, celebrate our heritage, and empower our communities,” Aumentado said.
He closed with a call for all Boholanos to work together for the sustainable progress of the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark.
All classes in Jagna suspended due to social media threat
Mayor Mark Louie Monungolh suspended all classes at all levels in both public and private schools in Jagna following a reported threat on social media.
The suspension is effective immediately and follows an initial preventive security assessment conducted by the Jagna Municipal Police Station, together with other uniformed personnel and school officials.
According to Monungolh, the suspension is only a preventive measure to protect students, teachers, and non-teaching personnel while authorities investigate the threat and strengthen security in schools.
The mayor also urged schools to use modular, online, or other alternative learning modes to ensure students can continue their studies.
He asked parents and students to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and rely only on official announcements from LGU Jagna, the Department of Education, and law enforcement agencies.
LGU Jagna, the Philippine National Police, MDRRMO, Bureau of Fire Protection, and force multipliers remain on full alert as security monitoring and visibility patrols continue.
An Executive Order formalizing the suspension of classes is also expected to be released.
Loboc ambulance driver admits he fell asleep while driving
The driver of a Loboc ambulance admitted that he fell asleep while driving the vehicle that hit a motorcycle and a Mitsubishi Xpander with a patient on board.
This was revealed by Police Master Sgt. Protacio Man-on of Baclayon Police, who responded to the accident, in an interview with a media outlet.
Man-on said alias “Nick,” 57 years old from Jimilian, Loboc, admitted that he dozed off.
When he woke up, the ambulance he was driving had already hit a parked motorcycle and then a parked Mitsubishi Xpander.
The driver claimed he was driving slowly and that the patient he was carrying was not in critical condition.
He also said he did not use the siren and only turned on the hazard lights.
Both parties agreed that all damages to the car and motorcycle will be shouldered by the LGU of Loboc, so the driver was allowed to go home.
No one was injured. The patient was transferred to Baclayon responders and was brought to Gallares Hospital.
Sagility Building Fire Put Out, No Injuries
Firefighters immediately put out the fire that hit the Sagility Building inside the old Tagbilaran Airport on August 6, which only damaged one locker cabinet and no one was injured or killed.
According to Bohol Provincial Fire Marshal FSupt. Raul Bustaliño, “The fire started on the third floor of the building at 3:12 in the afternoon.”
The Tagbilaran City Fire Station responded with Engine 1, Engine 3 and Engine 4, and arrived at the location within three minutes.
The first alarm was declared at 3:15 in the afternoon, fire under control at 3:30 in the afternoon, and fire out at 4:11 in the afternoon.
In the initial investigation, only one locker cabinet measuring about four square meters was damaged.
The amount of damage and the cause of the fire are still being investigated by the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Degay thanks Bohol leaders for bringing PNPA Exam to province
Bohol Police Provincial Office Director PCol. Patricio Degay Jr. thanked Gov. Aris Aumentado, First District Rep. John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II, and Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap for their support in bringing the 2026 Philippine National Police Academy Cadet Admission Test to Bohol.
According to Degay, “Holding the examination in Bohol will lessen the hardship for applicants who no longer need to travel to Cebu, where the exam was canceled last year due to the typhoon.”
The examination will be held at Tagbilaran City College through the support of the Provincial Government of Bohol, the office of Rep. Yap, and the Tagbilaran City Government.
Degay hopes that the local testing center will encourage more qualified young Boholanos to join the Philippine National Police.
At present, only 37 applicants have registered for the PNPACAT, so the BPPO is encouraging more youth to apply before the September 30 deadline.
The PNPACAT will be held on October 25, 2026.
Those who pass will receive a four-year full scholarship at the Philippine National Police Academy, including free tuition, board and lodging, and will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety.
After graduation, they will be commissioned as Police Lieutenant in the Philippine National Police.
Applicants must be natural-born Filipino citizens, 18 to 22 years old before May 1, 2027, senior high school graduates with at least an 85 percent general average, single, with no children or legal obligation, of good moral character, physically fit and with no criminal record.
Taloto named BiDA barangay in Tagbilaran as city strengthens disaster preparedness
The Tagbilaran City Government honored the barangays that performed best in disaster preparedness and response during the closing of the 2026 National Disaster Resilience Month, where Mayor Jane Yap emphasized the city’s continued effort to build a safer and more prepared community.
Barangay Taloto was declared the BiDA (Best in DRRM Action) Barangay 2026 and received a ₱1.5 million project incentive.
Barangay Ubujan was the first runner-up and received ₱1 million, while Barangay Mansasa became the second runner-up and received ₱500,000.
The city also distributed first aid backpacks to all 15 barangays to strengthen their emergency response capacity.
In her statement, Yap said that “every day of service is a step toward a safer and more resilient Tagbilaran against disasters,” and emphasized the big role of barangays as first responders during emergencies.
According to Mayor Yap, the program is part of Tagbilaran’s continued effort to strengthen disaster preparedness and to encourage barangays to follow best practices in disaster risk reduction and emergency response.
DOH and PHO assure parents MR vaccine is safe and tested
The Department of Health Central Visayas and the Bohol Provincial Health Office assured parents that the measles-rubella vaccine is safe, effective and tested, while urging parents to have their eligible children vaccinated under the Ligtas Tigdas 2026 campaign.
The assurance was given during a press briefing on August 13 by DOH-7 Logistics Support Chief Dr. Van Philipp Baton and Bohol Provincial Health Officer Dr. Fruserma Mary Uy regarding the measles-rubella supplemental immunization activity in the province.
The campaigns started on August 10 in Dolores and targets children 6 to 59 months old.
According to Baton, “MR vaccines have been used worldwide for about five decades to protect children against measles and rubella.”
He explained that the MR vaccine used in the supplemental campaign is not a new vaccine, but the same vaccine used in the country’s regular immunization program.
He added that many adults today have already received the same vaccine when they were children.
Baton said that the MR vaccines have passed regulatory requirements and comply with the standards of the World Health Organization and the Food and Drug Administration.
Uy also reiterated the assurance to parents that the vaccine is safe, tested and proven.
Baton and Uy urged parents to make decisions based on science, facts and reliable health information, instead of fear, worry or misinformation spreading on social media.
They also urged parents to consult health authorities and medical professionals for correct information and to bring eligible children to vaccination sites.
The goal of the campaign is to provide additional protection for children against measles and rubella, with the DOH targeting at least 95 percent vaccination coverage.
On Day 4 on August 14, around 9,000 children or 7.4 percent of the 100,000 target population in Bohol have been vaccinated.
Fisherman in Clarin found dead after fishing alone
A 41-year-old fisherman was found dead on the muddy shoreline of Barangay Tangaran on Tuesday afternoon, and was believed to have drowned.
The Clarin Police Station identified the victim as Alberto Escabas Jr. y Estillore, 41, married and a resident of Sitio Tinago, Barangay Tangaran.
According to police, around 3:15 in the afternoon on August 11, fisherman Desiden Sitoy found the victim lying lifeless in the muddy coastal water.
Barangay Captain Junriel Lungay reported it to the Clarin Police Station around 3:20 in the afternoon.
Based on the initial investigation, around 12 noon, Escabas told his mother that he would go fishing alone.
Around 1 in the afternoon, he was also seen talking to his neighbors and told them about his plan to go fishing.
But the neighbors were shocked when they later found him dead on the shoreline.
Dr. Reina Jane Demandante, medical health officer of the Clarin Rural Health Unit, conducted a post-mortem examination and found no wounds or external injuries on the body.
According to her findings, the cause of death was suffocation due to drowning.
The Clarin Police Station is continuing the documentation and investigation of the incident.
Alias “Pisot” arrested in Tubigon buy-bust, P38,138 worth of shabu seized
A 23-year-old watchlisted drug suspect identified by the alias “Pisot” was arrested in a buy-bust operation by police, and 5.61 grams of suspected shabu worth P38,138 was seized from him.
The Tubigon Police Station identified the suspect as alias “Pisot,” single and a resident of Purok 1, Barangay Tinangnan.
The operation was conducted around 6 in the evening on August 11 in Purok 6, Barangay Tinangnan, under the leadership of PCapt. Mark Jucel Reburiano, chief of the Tubigon Police Station, and in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
Seized in the operation were one sachet of suspected shabu weighing 1.28 grams and three more sachets allegedly held by the suspect weighing 4.33 grams, or a total of 5.61 grams.
Also recovered were one improvised plastic container and P500 in marked money used in the operation.
The seized suspected shabu will be sent to the Bohol Provincial Forensic Unit in Tagbilaran City for laboratory examination.
“Pisot” was brought to the Tubigon Community Hospital for medical examination and was then temporarily detained at the custodial facility of the Tubigon Police Station while charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 are being prepared.
P100-M upgrade planned for Manga Fish Port in Tagbilaran City
The City Government of Tagbilaran is planning at least P100 million in funding for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the Manga Fish Port, according to Mayor Jane Yap.
According to Yap, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority has already completed the Manga Fish Port Development Plan which will serve as the basis for the proposed upgrading of the facility.
Among the planned improvements are a modern fish market, better fish port facilities, parking and access areas, a wastewater treatment facility with cold storage, and an on-site area for cooking to boost market tourism.
According to Yap, the fish port will be made more modern, clean, safe and organized for the fishermen and coastal barangays of the city.
The mayor thanked the Department of Agriculture and PFDA for their support for the project, which she hopes will help strengthen the fishery sector and the livelihood of fisherfolk in Tagbilaran.
Store cashier with simple theft case arrested on warrant
A 24-year-old woman facing a Simple Theft case was arrested by members of the Tracker Team of the Dagohoy Police Station in Purok 4, Barangay La Esperanza, Dagohoy, on Tuesday night, August 11, 2026.
The arrested person, who works as a store cashier and is a resident of the said area, was arrested through a Warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Angie Ucat Logarta, Presiding Judge of RTC Branch 2, 7th Judicial Region in Tagbilaran City, on August 10, 2026, under Criminal Case No. 21628 with a recommended bail of Php 6,000.00.
The successful operation was conducted under the direct supervision of PMAJ Marcos A. Lopez, Chief of Police of Dagohoy MPS, as a result of an intelligence initiative gathered by their intelligence section.
According to police, the arrest shows the strengthened commitment of PNP Bohol under Provincial Director PCOL Patricio C. Degay Jr. to pursue and arrest all individuals with pending warrants of arrest throughout the province.
Watchlisted suspect nabbed in Dagohoy buy-bust
Police arrested a 42-year-old watchlisted drug suspect in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Malitbog on Thursday afternoon, August 13.
Seized from him were 18.1 grams of suspected shabu worth P123,080 and a .357-caliber revolver with five live bullets.
The arrested suspect was identified as “Roberto,” 42 years old, unemployed and a resident of Barangay Cagawasan, Dagohoy.
The operation was led by the PDEU of the Bohol Police Provincial Office under the directive of Bohol PPO Provincial Director PCol. Patricio Degay Jr., with PLT Dave Surio leading and under the direct supervision of PLTCOL Joemar Pomarejos, in coordination with the Dagohoy Municipal Police Station.
Aside from the suspected shabu, also seized were buy-bust money, a cellphone, a brown sling bag and the .357 revolver with five live bullets.
The suspect is currently detained at the Dagohoy Municipal Police Station while the evidence was submitted to the Bohol Forensics Unit for examination and custody.
The suspect will face charges for violation of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.