US-based lawyer Glenn Hubahib says island connectivity remains vital for Bohol
ATTY. HUBAHIB
Glenn Hubahib, the US based lawyer, said that connectivity between Panglao Island and mainland Bohol is an important for connectivity.
He said this in reaction to how important it is to have a third bridge.
A third bridge connecting Panglao to Tagbilaran is being built with the help from a grant of the French government.
He said that with the Island’s population constantly growing, there is a need to have more connectivity options.
Panglao also hosts the international airport and it is important that there are plenty of connectivity options available.
TANOCAL president says Americans avoid hiring overqualified applicants
AR ROMANOS
The Tagbilaran Association of Northern California (TANOCAL) president Architect Arturo Romanos said Americans do not like to hire people who are overqualified.
He said that in America, the hiring manager would be embarrassed to hire people who are too qualified for the job.
People who are overqualified often lose opportunities in America because the hiring managers would not allow people with glaring credentials to work for them.
Americans do not like to hire people who are able to exceed the credentials that the job is calling for.
This is in contrast in the Philippines, where people overqualified tend to get juicy positions in companies, and they are able to get hired easily.
In the Philippines, people who are overqualified tend to get an inside track into the employment market.
More often high school graduates are able to find a job in America and it is very rare for people with advanced degrees to work in menial labor.
Most hiring manager are putting premium for experience rather than academic achievement.
City Health Office spokesperson Robin Culpa discusses haze affecting Tagbilaran
CULPA
City Health Office spoke person Robin Culpa talked about haze conditions affecting city of Tagbilaran.
He said that the haze is polluted air when there are suspended particles in the air.
The haze being experienced right now is due to the fires in Indonesia.
The forest fire he said, has the presence of small particulate in the air
The haze was brought by the current weather system, and this is causing problems in air pollution.
He said this has become a public health concern and the smoke has been causing irritation in the human body.
Exposure to Haze may be resolved via the rains.
Culpa said the haze may worsen existing health respiratory conditions.
The haze may cause impact into the community by way of class suspension and even work stoppage.
Culpa said that when the rain starts, it is possible that the air quality will improve City Health Office spokesperson Robin Culpa discusses haze affecting Tagbilaran
City Health Office spoke person Robin Culpa talked about haze conditions affecting city of Tagbilaran.
He said that the haze is polluted air when there are suspended particles in the air.
The haze being experience right now is due to the fires in Indonesia.
The forest fire he said, has the presence of small particulate in the air
The haze was brought by the current weather system, and this is causing problems in air pollution.
He said this has become a public health concern and the smoke has been causing irritation in the human body.
Exposure to Haze may be resolved via the rains.
Culpa said the haze may worsen existing health respiratory conditions.
The haze may cause impact into the community by way of class suspension and even work stoppage.
Culpa said that when the rain starts, it is possible that the air quality will improve as the rains may wash out the particulates in the air.
He advised people to stay indoors and to wear protective masks and to stay hydrated.
Meanwhile, Culpa coordinated help for a victim of a suspected rabid dog.
He said that he will ensure that the victim is getting the ample treatment he deserves. rains may wash out the particulates in the air.
He advised people to stay indoors and to wear protective masks and to stay hydrated.
Meanwhile, Culpa coordinated help for a victim of a suspected rabid dog.
He said that he will ensure that the victim is getting the ample treatment he deserves.
Criminologist Leanne Mae Lapure Ejoc says tolerance was her biggest lesson
A criminologist, who recently passed the board exams, shared that she learned the value of being tolerant of others.
Leanne Mae Lapure Ejoc shared with Carl Hinlo and Jhon Lowie Bugahod of Kabataan for Change during a review interview.
Ejoc said that she has become tolerant of other people when she started to study criminology.
This is perhaps the biggest lesson as she became a criminologist.
She has also learned the value of discipline and focus on her goals.
Meanwhile,Ejoc also shared the challenges she faced prior to the board exam.
She had to endure challenges that tested her resolve.
In the end, her focus brought her to desired glory and helped her to become a criminologist.
Bohol Light extends no-disconnection policy until October 2026
Bohol Light wishes to inform the public that the policy of no disconnection has been extended until October 2026, according to Sheryl Paga, spokesperson of Bohol Light.
The policy is in line with the advisory issued by the Energy Regulatory Commission.
The agency has extended the no disconnection policy until October 2026.
The policy aims to protect the consumers from getting disconnected during the time of an energy crisis.
The advisory, covers all energy stakeholders, including distribution utilities and electricity cooperatives.
The policy is aligned with Executive Order 110 issued by President Marcos Jr. declaring a state of National energy emergency.
The ERC advisory mandates all distribution utilities are to impose the following:
There will be a suspension in all disconnection for both residential and non-residential consumers.
These consumers who have yet to settle their bill will not be disconnected from the service, even if they have past due balance on their bill.
The past due should be within the period spanning May to October 2026.
The consumers are also provided with the payment option plan for consumers who are consuming not more than 200 kwh per month.
They need to issue a promissory note before the payment plan can be process.
Consumer needs to submit it to the office for processing.
In order to process the payment plan, and to those who have yet to receive their August bill can coordinate with the office.
They can call the hotline at 038-515- 2370 to 2375 or call 0920- 9602372.
They can also call at 0820-960 2372.
Those who can pay in full may do so in order to avoid inconvenient in the future.
BWUI celebrates 26th anniversary with clean-up and consumer promos
The Bohol Water Utilities Incorporated (BWUI) celebrated his 26th anniversary on August 28, 2026, according to Victor Tambis.
To celebrate the occasion, the company employees participated in a road clean up activity.
They cleaned up the roadside from Binayran Road to Divine Mercy church.
Another group cleaned up the roadside from a hardware to BWUI office.
The activity aims to educate people on the importance of having a clean environment.
At the same time, people are being educated on how to properly dispose their waste.
Meanwhile, the company provided freebies to lucky consumers who visited the office during the anniversary and paid their bills at the office, the promo ran from August 24-27 2026 wherein, some receive rice stocks, umbrellas and bags.
The first 50 lucky consumers were given the opportunity to win the tokens during the anniversary week.
Moreover, BWUI is also running another promotion that it will provide free water meter for the first 26 applicants for water connection.
BWUI was created from the joint venture of the Provincial Government and the Salcon group.
The full operation happened on December 28, 2000.
Enerio Street in Barangay Dampas now brighter
The passage for motorists and residents is now safer and brighter after the successful implementation of the street lighting project on Enerio Street in Barangay Dampas, Tagbilaran City.
This development is expected to greatly help in making the road more visible especially at night, and to help prevent road accidents.
The project is part of the continuing initiative under the Yap-Jala Administration.
According to Mayor Jane Yap, their goal is to provide quality service and developments that are truly seen and felt by every Tagbilaranon family.
The administration also clarified that lighting up Enerio Street is just one of the city’s steps toward full progress.
The government assured that it will continue to work and give attention to every road and every community in Tagbilaran to ensure that the entire City continues to develop.
Over 1 million government workers under JO and COS — CSC
Over one million workers in the Philippine government remain under Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) status, which make up almost one-third of the entire 3.29 million workforce in the public sector.
According to data released by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) during their budget hearing at the House Committee on Appropriations, CSC Chairperson Marilyn Yap stated that the majority or 69 percent of JO and COS workers are employed in local government units (LGUs).
Meanwhile, 22.14 percent are in national government agencies (NGAs), and the remaining portion are in Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and local water districts.
Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Representative Robert Nazal expressed great concern over the government’s continued reliance on JO and COS while many permanent positions or ‘plantilla’ remain vacant in various agencies.
The lawmaker pointed out that contractual government employees have become like “second class citizens” due to the lack of job security and benefits.
In response, the CSC said they have implemented a preference rating system that gives additional points to qualified JO and COS workers who pass the civil service examination.
The agency also reduced the required years of service from 10 years to 5 years to give contractual workers a faster and bigger chance to enter permanent positions in government.
27 Region 7 extension workers trained on cassava production in Bohol
The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center VII (ATI-RTC VII) conducted a five-day “Training on Cassava Production” for 27 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from different areas in Central Visayas from August 24 to 28, 2026 at the ATI-RTC VII Training Complex in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.
The activity aims to improve the capacity of AEWs in teaching modern methods and management of cassava farming.
The training provided participants with technical knowledge and practical skills to further strengthen their delivery of extension services and technical assistance to cassava farmers in their respective communities.
Among the key topics taught to the participants were the current status and direction of the cassava industry in the Philippines, recommended production technologies, pest and disease management, proper planting practices, and marketing.
They were also taught how to identify the different parts of the plant and to recognize the major cassava varieties registered with the NSIC that are suitable for planting.
In addition, the activity has Continuing Professional Development (CPD) accreditation for licensed agriculturists.
Through this, participants were given the opportunity to earn CPD units while continuously developing their professional competence.
House approves bill setting 5-year term for barangay and SK officials
The House of Representatives approved on second reading House Bill 10971 which seeks to set the term of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to five years through viva voce voting during their plenary session last Wednesday.
Aside from setting the five-year term, the bill also moves the next Barangay and SK Elections (BSKE) from the first Monday of November 2026 to the second Monday of November 2028, and elections will be held every five years after that.
Because of the two-year postponement of the elections, incumbent barangay officials will be considered to have completed one term, and their term limit will also be reduced from three to only two consecutive terms, while the limit for SK officials remains at one term.
Man arrested in Sierra Bullones for carnapping
Police in Sierra Bullones arrested a 36-year-old single man and resident of Sitio Sigpit, Barangay Danicop, for a carnapping case.
Authorities served the Bench Warrant of Arrest against the accused issued by Presiding Judge Acerey C. Pacheco of the Regional Trial Court-National Capital Region, Branch 165 in Marikina City on October 28, 2024.
The suspect was reportedly charged with carnapping, and a bail of P300,000 was recommended for his temporary release.
The accused was already turned over by police to the proper authorities for further legal processes against him.
Chief cook arrested in Baclayon buy-bust
A 28-year-old chief cook of a restaurant in Barangay Cogon, Tagbilaran City was arrested by police after more than P47 thousand worth of suspected shabu was seized from him during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Guiwanon, Baclayon early morning yesterday, August 30.
The alleged drug personality was identified as Richard, single and a native resident of Purok Datag, Barangay Cabangcalan, Sevilla, Bohol, but currently residing in Barangay Cogon, Tagbilaran City.
According to the Baclayon Drug Enforcement Unit, the anti-illegal drug operation in Barangay Guiwanon was conducted under the leadership of Police Executive Master Sergeant Alexander Tubig and under the supervision of Police Captain Alfredo Liguayan Jr.
A police poseur buyer purchased one packet of suspected shabu from the alleged suspect for P500.
After the transaction and the turnover of the suspected contraband to the poseur buyer, operatives immediately arrested Gumapac.
Upon searching his person, eight more packets of suspected shabu were recovered.
The nine packets, including the buy-bust item, were estimated to have a total weight of 6.96 grams with a standard drug price of P47,328.
The operation was witnessed by barangay officials Barangay Kagawad Erlinda Mende and Barangay Kagawad Preciosa Malnegro of Barangay Guiwanon, as well as members of the media.
The Baclayon Drug Enforcement Unit has prepared charges for illegal sale and illegal possession of dangerous drugs against Gumapac, who is currently in police custody while awaiting the filing of formal charges against him.
Diocese of Talibon prepares for first synod in 40 years
Four decades after its establishment, the Diocese of Talibon is now preparing for its first ‘diocesan synod’ to plan the future pastoral direction of the local Church.
The five-day Synod Assembly is scheduled this October 19 to 23, where priests, religious, and lay representatives will gather for prayer, dialogue, and communal discernment.
This gathering is being held as Talibon prepares for its Golden Jubilee in 2036.
It provides an opportunity to reflect on 40 years of service and to create new pastoral priorities.
The synod came about through extensive consultations in various parishes, ministries, commissions, and other sectors to listen to their concerns and hopes.
Through these consultations, the main priorities identified include the renewal of Basic Ecclesial Communities, strengthening ongoing formation, expanding lay participation, and caring for the vulnerable sectors of society.
It also emphasized the need for stronger youth guidance, stewardship, greater accountability, and sustainable pastoral programs.
These recommendations were compiled by the synodal team into a Discernment Report and Instrumentum Laboris which will serve as the guide for discussions during the assembly.
The diocese views this not just as an ordinary gathering but as a path toward deeper pastoral conversion and renewed missionary commitment.
Its goal is to move the Church from routine work to a more active mission, and to build a Church that is participatory, missionary, and compassionate.
The diocese is now calling on all Catholics to pray for the delegates and the entire process so that the Holy Spirit will guide their steps and the spirit of synodality will continue throughout the local Church.
Rep. Tutor calls for social media ban for children 15 and below
Bohol 3rd District Rep. Kristine Alexie Besas Tutor is calling for stricter age restrictions on the use of social media and online gaming platforms by children.
According to Tutor, children 15 years old and below should not be allowed to create or independently use social media accounts, while those aged 16 and 17 should require verified consent from a parent or guardian.
She is also asking for mandatory parental controls for minors’ accounts, including privacy, contact with strangers, access to content, online spending, and screen time.
She said that online gaming platforms should also be included in this protection where children can interact with strangers, access user-generated content, use open chat, and spend money.
According to Tutor, it is not enough to rely only on voluntary measures by technology companies such as Meta and Roblox to protect children online.
She also explained that there are laws in the Philippines that use age thresholds for additional protection of minors, including the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act and the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act.
Tutor is also calling for stronger privacy protection for children, including avoiding unnecessary collection and use of their personal data for commercial profiling.
Tutor wants government agencies to work together to further strengthen the enforcement of existing laws, while also calling on Congress to create additional laws on age restrictions, platform safeguards, and penalties for violators.
According to her, the law must now catch up with the reality that children today can easily be reached by strangers, predators, violent content, gambling, manipulation, and commercial exploitation through their cellphones.
Electrical overload eyed as cause of P1.9-M church fire in Tagbilaran
Electrical overload is being looked at as the initial cause of the fire that occurred at a church in Purok 2, Barangay Booy, Tagbilaran City on Monday morning.
According to FSupt. Angelie Salva, Tagbilaran City Fire Marshal, the fire started on the right side of the altar, where the outlets used for the church’s electrical equipment are located.
The fire was reported at 8:32 AM and was responded to by Engine 1, 2 and 4 of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
The fire was declared under control at 8:54 AM and was completely put out at 9:10 AM.
No one was injured or killed in the incident, but property damage was estimated at P1.9 million.
The BFP is still investigating the exact cause of the fire.
Armed man arrested in Calape, P14,688 worth of shabu seized
Police arrested a 40-year-old unemployed man in Barangay Magtongtong, Calape, where P14,688 worth of suspected shabu and a 9mm pistol were seized on August 28.
The suspect, a resident of Barangay Ilijan Norte, Tubigon, was caught in possession of a 9mm Caspian pistol, while his 18-year-old companion was also caught with a magazine loaded with four bullets.
During a search incidental to a lawful arrest, two sachets of suspected shabu weighing 2.16 grams with an estimated value of P14,688 were recovered from the suspect.
Also confiscated were the pistol, magazine, four bullets, and a coin purse allegedly used to hold the sachets.
The suspected shabu was brought to the Bohol Provincial Forensic Unit for laboratory examination.
The suspect is temporarily detained at the Calape Custodial Facility while charges are being prepared under RA 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
DepEd imposes stricter penalties for campus violence, bullying
The Department of Education said Tuesday it has expanded its crackdown on campus bullying, physical attacks and threats by imposing stricter penalties — including non-readmission, immediate exclusion and mandatory referral to authorities — for students who commit serious offenses, the Philippine Information Agency reported.
In a press release, DepEd said the strengthened student protection protocols were formalized under Department Order No. 006, series of 2026, or the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment, developed in coordination with local government units, law enforcement and social welfare agencies.
Under the policy, each school’s Child Protection Committee will immediately investigate reports, ensure victims’ safety and provide mental health support.
The guidelines establish a progressive disciplinary framework based on the severity of the offense.
Minor offenses carry lighter administrative measures, including a written reprimand, mandatory parent notification and guidance counseling.
Serious offenses, such as repeated bullying or online harassment, will result in immediate suspension of up to five days along with mandatory referral to the Department of Social Welfare and Development, escalating to non-readmission for a second offense and full exclusion for a third.
High-risk acts involving serious physical harm, bomb threats or dangerous hoaxes will result in non-readmission on the first offense, permanent exclusion on the second and immediate turnover to law enforcement.
School heads are also authorized to issue a 30-day preventive suspension during ongoing investigations if a student poses a continuing threat to campus safety.
The incident response process assigns direct teacher intervention for minor bullying cases, while Learner Formation Officers handle serious cases. School heads directly address high-risk offenses and issue corresponding penalties, with parents notified at every level.
Non-readmission bars offenders from re-enrolling the following academic year but allows them to finish the current term. Immediate exclusion removes students from active school rolls, though their continued learning is maintained through alternative education interventions.
Tagbilaran ramps up health monitoring amid rise in flu, dengue cases
The city government has stepped up health monitoring and containment measures to curb a recent rise in flu and dengue cases, the Philippine Information Agency reported.
The move follows a directive from City Mayor Jane Yap aimed at ensuring prompt medical care for residents who need it, according to the report.
Yap said the Tagbilaran City Primary Care Facility is now offering free complete blood count and dengue NS1 testing for residents, with a dedicated priority lane. The facility’s operating hours have also been extended until 10 p.m. to accommodate working residents and parents.
The mayor urged residents to seek medical attention if fever persists for two days and advised students showing flu-like symptoms to stay home to prevent further spread.
The city also called on households — particularly in areas under heightened monitoring such as Barangay Cogon — to practice proper hygiene, wear face masks if symptomatic, and strictly carry out “search and destroy” measures to eliminate stagnant water and mosquito breeding sites.
By prioritizing early detection and swift intervention, the city aims to protect families before these illnesses become emergencies, PIA said.
Air quality reaches ‘unhealthy’ level in Tagbilaran City
Air quality monitoring in Tagbilaran City is showing unhealthy levels of fine particulate matter, or PM2.5.
The latest reading from AccuWeather showed PM2.5 at 36 micrograms per cubic meter, corresponding to an Air Quality Index of 110, classified as “unhealthy.”
PM10 was recorded at 56 micrograms per cubic meter, or an AQI of 66, while nitrogen dioxide stood at 20 micrograms per cubic meter and ozone at 47 micrograms per cubic meter.
Residents — particularly children, older adults and those with respiratory or heart conditions — were advised to limit prolonged outdoor activities and take precautions while air quality remains poor.
DSWD continues monitoring 4Ps beneficiaries’ compliance with health, education requirements
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7 continues to monitor compliance among beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), tracking their access to health and education services as well as participation in Family Development Sessions.
The 4Ps provides conditional cash grants to qualified families to support their children’s education and health needs. Families can receive education grants for up to three children — P300 monthly for each child in daycare or elementary school, P500 for junior high school and P700 for senior high school, for up to 10 months.
Beneficiary families also receive a P750 monthly health grant and a P600 monthly rice subsidy. Under the program’s First 1,000 Days of Life component, pregnant women and children ages 0 to 24 months can receive an additional P750 monthly.
For Compliance Period 3, covering May to June 2026, 4Ps beneficiaries recorded a 94.54% compliance rate for health requirements, covering monitored children ages 0 to 5, pregnant women, children eligible for deworming, and parents attending monthly Family Development Sessions.
Compliance under the First 1,000 Days component, covering children ages 0 to 2 and pregnant women, reached 117.67%.
Education compliance rates were 94.72% for elementary students, 90.75% for junior high school students and 93.01% for senior high school students.
DSWD said implementers use the compliance monitoring process to identify barriers preventing families from participating in or accessing required services.
Common reasons for noncompliance included beneficiaries’ attending to personal or family matters and the lack of a companion for a child or pregnant woman at medical facilities. Psychosocial factors were also cited as contributing to noncompliance in education.
DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero said compliance monitoring goes beyond measuring whether beneficiaries meet program conditions, adding that it helps identify the challenges families face and the support they need.
She said this is why the agency continues strengthening partnerships with the Department of Education, Department of Health, local government units and other stakeholders to address gaps and ensure 4Ps families can access intended services.
To document compliance, the program uses Compliance Verification forms distributed to partner schools and health centers, which are then encoded and verified at the City or Municipal Operations Office before further verification, approval and submission to the Regional Program Management Office.
DOH urges face masks amid haze from Indonesia wildfires
The Department of Health on Tuesday urged the public to wear N95 face masks and limit outdoor activities as haze from forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, reached parts of Luzon and the Visayas due to southwest monsoon winds.
In an advisory, the DOH warned that the haze carries polluted air mixed with fine smoke, dust and ash that can cause respiratory problems and eye irritation.
Effects can include difficulty breathing, coughing, chest pain, itchy or watery eyes, and worsening of lung conditions such as asthma, the agency said, adding that children, the elderly and people with existing lung or heart conditions need extra precaution.
To reduce exposure, the DOH outlined preventive measures for affected communities, including staying indoors, sealing indoor spaces, driving safely and wearing protective masks. It advised that N95 masks be worn when outdoors; if unavailable, the public can use a damp cloth, doubled over for added protection against particles.
The DOH also advised checking local air quality and prioritizing personal safety, and reminded the public to contact the National Emergency Hotline 911 for urgent medical assistance.
Bohol strengthens geoeducation through 4GEON Project
The Provincial Government of Bohol, through the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark, partnered with the Department of Education-Bohol and the international 4GEON network to hold the 4GEON Project Symposium and the first Bohol Geoschools and 4GEON Club Awards on Sept. 1, 2026 at the Ceremonial Hall.
The event recognized schools, teachers and students for innovative approaches to geoeducation, sustainability, heritage storytelling, community engagement and digital advocacy, part of the province’s push to bring geoscience education to students through Geoschools and 4GEON Clubs.
Gov. Aris Aumentado thanked DepEd-Bohol and participating students, saying their involvement strengthens the province’s identity as a UNESCO Global Geopark. 4GEON Information Technology Lead David Zejda called Bohol the “beating heart of the Philippines” among the project’s 18 participating provinces, while Chief of Staff Filipina Asoy-Piollo described young participants as “young Earth stewards.”
Santo Tomas Elementary School and Hinlayagan National High School, both of Trinidad, topped the Outstanding Geoschools and 4GEON Clubs awards. Buenos Aires Elementary School of Carmen and Cayacay High School of Alicia placed second, and Talibon Central Elementary School and Tambongan National High School of Candijay placed third.
Joenette Nugal and Merly Casocot were named Outstanding 4GEON Club Advisers, while MJ Kathara Buaya and Maria Jullia Daluz won Outstanding Youth Earth Steward awards. Special awards also went to schools for geoinnovation, sustainability, heritage storytelling, community engagement and digital advocacy.
Martina Pasková, 4GEON Project Leader from the Czech Republic, praised students for developing their own interpretations of geological sites. The symposium also featured country presentations from Tanzania, Peru, Nicaragua, Bhutan and the Philippines.
Bohol’s UNESCO Global Geopark status carries a responsibility to conserve its geological heritage and involve communities in protecting it — an effort officials say the 4GEON Project supports by using schools as platforms to introduce students to the province’s landscapes, heritage and environmental challenges.
Bohol opens National Crime Prevention Week, stresses community role in curbing crime
Crime prevention should begin before a crime happens, National Police Commission Regional Director Leonora Bartolome said as she opened National Crime Prevention Week here, an event joined by uniformed personnel and college and high school students from Tagbilaran.
Bartolome said curbing crime is not solely the police’s responsibility but a shared duty of the community.
As part of an awareness drive, students from Holy Spirit School, Bohol Wisdom School, Holy Name University and Tagbilaran City College, along with criminology students serving as police trainees, were briefed on crime prevention and human rights.
Police Senior Master Sgt. Jenelyn Licyayo of the Women and Children Protection Center-Visayas Field Unit discussed indicators of human trafficking, online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, and child sexual abuse materials, aiming to help young people recognize and act against such crimes.
Jessie Fuentes of the Department of Education Region 7 spoke on anti-bullying policies amid a rise in cyberbullying cases, while Maria Kristel Joyce Pastrana of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 7 discussed how the juvenile justice system works as cases involving children in conflict with the law increase.
Jay Mar Masibay of the Department of Information and Communications Technology discussed cyber hygiene amid a rise in online scams.
Barangay Booy clarifies ₱3-M for Caingget Beach rehabilitation
Booy Brgy. Captain June Telmo clarified that there is a ₱3-million budget for the rehabilitation of Caingget Beach in Booy from the Provincial Government.
Telmo explained that the implementation of the rehabilitation was delayed because the original program of works was for expansion and because it required an Environmental Compliance Certificate, which is why they had it revised by the General Services Office from expansion to Rehabilitation.
The expansion would cost ₱12-Million while the rehabilitation would cost ₱3-Million.
Aside from having the program of works revised, they are also processing the liquidation papers for their ₱1-Million pesos financial assistance from the provincial government.
Loon LGU gives ₱10,000 aid to each fire victim family
The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Loon gave ₱10,000 in financial aid to each family who were victims of the fire to help them with their immediate needs.
According to Mayor Yul Lopez, there are families have a great need for immediate assistance because many of them were not able to grab any personal belongings during the sudden fire.
The ₱10,000 financial aid can be used by the victims to buy their necessities while they are still dealing with the effects of the tragedy.
Aside from the financial aid, the LGU also provided other types of assistance to the affected families.
At present, the Barangay temporarily housed the fire victims.
Their transfer to the evacuation center is also scheduled, especially since it is expected that it will take a while before they can start and return to building their houses.
Twelve houses in Barangay Napo, Loon were razed by fire yesterday, which left many families without homes.
House made of light materials burns in Getafe
A house made of light materials in Barangay Poblacion, municipality of Getafe, was razed by fire at 11:10 in the morning, Wednesday, September 2.
According to FO3 Jeramil Bartolaba, investigator of the Getafe Fire Station, the fire truck arrived at the location four minutes after the report was received, but the fire was already big when they arrived.
It is estimated that about 10 square meters of the house, which was made only of scraps, was burned.
Based on the initial investigation, firewood and DRY grass that were left unattended are believed to be the cause of the fire.
The investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
Two live-in partners and their five children were living in the house.
The Bureau of Fire Protection estimated the damage at about P2,000.
PEZA and Primelectric sign MOU for stronger power supply in ecozones
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and Primelectric Holdings, Inc. (PHI) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on September 1, 2026, to study and improve the power distribution system within the country’s economic zones.
The agreement was led by PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga and PHI President and CEO Roel Z. Castro as part of the agency’s move to strengthen power infrastructure in ecozones to better attract businesses.
Under the MOU, PEZA will identify priority ecozones, while PHI will conduct feasibility assessments to examine the power supply in those areas.
PHI will be a big help because of its extensive experience in power distribution through its companies such as MORE Electric and Power Corporation, Negros Electric and Power Corporation, and Bohol Light Company, Inc.
It is expected to help with the priority of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. regarding energy security and making it easier to do business in the country.
According to DG Panga, “reliable power supply is no longer just a service issue, but a major aspect of investment.”
Through partnership with an experienced distributor like Primelectric, PEZA is not only securing electricity for their zones, but they are also contributing to having a stronger power system for the entire country.
The agency’s goal is to assure investors that power supply is ready when they start their businesses in the Philippines.
DFA Tagbilaran to hold ‘Special Passport Service’ for Bohol government employees
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Consular Office in Tagbilaran will hold a Special Saturday Passport Operation on September 19, 2026, from 9:00 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon for government employees and their families.
This is part of the celebration of Civil Service Month 2026, where up to 150 applicants—including permanent, contractual, and job order workers—will be given the opportunity to process their passports.
The fee for expedited processing is ₱1,200 per applicant, and spouses and minor children may also apply, provided they were included in the pre-registration that was conducted.
The goal of this action is to bring important government services closer to civil servants and their families.
Bol-anon activist John Ruiz released from custody after posting bail
Bol-anon activist and Makabayan Visayas Vice President John Ruiz was released from the custody of authorities after he posted bail.
Ruiz was arrested by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group or CIDG Region 7 in Cebu City after he joined a mobilization on August 31.
His arrest was based on a warrant of arrest related to a criminal case filed against him.
In a statement from his colleagues and supporters, they welcomed Ruiz’s release and said it was the result of the joint action and unity of those who responded to the call for his support.
They also thanked the individuals who helped and donated to raise the amount for Ruiz’s bail and legal defense.
However, according to the group, their struggle and defense of the right to organize and to express dissent continues.
They accused the use of criminal cases to allegedly harass, intimidate and silence activists and leaders of grassroots organizations.
They are also continuing to call for the dismissal of what they called “trumped-up charges” and to defend the democratic right of people to organize and express their position.
DOH extends Ligtas Tigdas campaign until September 4, 2026
The Department of Health extended the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) or Ligtas Tigdas Campaign until yesterday, Friday, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026.
This was according to Dr. Van Phillip Baton, Head of the Local Health Support Division at the Department of Health (DOH)-7 (Central Visayas Center for Health Development).
The goal of this extension is to reach all children 6 months to 59 months old who have not yet been vaccinated and to ensure that no child is left without protection against the highly contagious and dangerous diseases of Measles and Rubella.
Meanwhile, here is the latest data on children aged 6-59 months who were vaccinated against measles for the Ligtas Tigdas or Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) of DOH Central Visayas CHD.
According to the data from August 10 to August 29, 2026, there were 137,042 children aged 6 months to 59 months who were vaccinated with the Measles-Rubella vaccine in Bohol Province, Cebu Province, and in the Highly Urbanized Cities of Central Visayas.
Here in Bohol, out of the 123,512 target to be vaccinated, only 27,569 received the vaccine or 22.3%, meaning there are 95,943 who were not vaccinated.
According to Baton, every child who was vaccinated received additional protection against measles and rubella, diseases that can cause serious complications especially in children
Jala proposes Bohol Child Online Safety and Responsible Gaming Ordinance
Board Member Greg Jala, chairperson of the Committee on Information and Communications Technology of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, pushed a proposed ordinance that aims to strengthen the protection of children against online games and digital content that are not appropriate for their age and are excessively violent.
During his privilege speech, Jala proposed the creation of the Bohol Child Online Safety and Responsible Gaming Program, including the Anti-Violent Gaming Parental Safety System or APS.
Through this system, parents and guardians will be given technological tools to monitor and control their children’s use of compatible devices.
Included in the features of APS are: pag-block sa mga dula nga dili angay sa edad sa bata o adunay grabeng violent content; pagtakda og daily gaming time limit; pagdili sa gaming panahon sa klase ug oras sa pagtulog; pag-require og parental approval sa dili angay nga mga dula; ug paghatag og notification sa ginikanan kung mosulay ang bata og access sa blocked content.
Jala explained that the goal of the proposed ordinance is not to ban online games or to replace the role of parents.
Instead, it aims to give parents additional technological tools to promote responsible monitoring of their children’s digital activities.
This is related to his earlier concerns about incidents of shootings in schools.
Despite this, Jala acknowledged that there are many possible causes of school violence and that it is not appropriate to automatically blame online games for the violent behavior of children.
According to him, it is the responsibility of lawmakers to create reasonable and preventive measures to address possible risks before they worsen.
Jala therefore asked the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to support the proposed Bohol Child Online Safety and Responsible Gaming Ordinance and to study the feasibility of developing or adopting the APS that can be used by parents throughout the province.
Extensive flooding hits Luzon while Bohol experiences extreme heat
Large parts of Luzon are now experiencing severe and widespread flooding.
Nearly 600 areas such as Pampanga, Pangasinan, Bulacan, Cavite, Tarlac, Benguet, Zambales, and Bataan were flooded.
Amid the severe flooding in Luzon, the province of Bohol and the Visayas region are also experiencing extreme heat.
Leonard Samar, head of PAG-ASA Bohol, said that the flooding in Luzon is due to the non-stop rain brought by the strong Habagat (Southwest Monsoon), which continues to be strengthened by Tropical Storm Pilandok that is inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
Even though Bohol experienced extreme heat, PAG-ASA estimated that the province will still experience rain this month of September.
Even though the state weather bureau DOST-PAGASA announced the official onset of El Niño which brings the threat of drought, Samar explained that Bohol will have normal rainfall this month.
Localized thunderstorms or sudden rains with lightning and strong winds are still expected.
In fact, it is estimated that 2 to 3 storms may possibly form this month.
Brother hacks sibling in Dimiao
A man’s arm was almost severed after he was hacked by his own younger brother following a quarrel between the siblings in Barangay Oac, municipality of Dimiao, at 5:00 in the afternoon, Tuesday, September 1.
The victim was only identified as Virgilio, a former inmate due to a case of killing two people, while the suspect was his younger brother Jason.
According to information gathered, the siblings came from the rice field where they were working on the farm.
After their work, the two drank and had a drinking session.
But an argument arose between the siblings after the older brother allegedly threw a tantrum, which led to their quarrel.
It was said that the older brother grabbed a bolo, but the younger brother also quickly got a lagaraw and hacked his older brother on the arm.
After he was hacked, the victim pleaded with the suspect not to finish him off.
Due to the force of the hack, the victim’s arm was almost severed and he was immediately brought to the hospital for treatment.
After the incident, the suspect voluntarily surrendered to the police.
Tagbilaran records “unhealthy” AQI level due to haze
Tagbilaran City recorded a 50 Air Quality Index (AQI) level due to the haze that is now covering the air in the city, which was considered by City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) head Gerard Labadia as “unhealthy.”
According to Labadia, the data was based on their latest monitoring of the air quality in the city.
Yesterday afternoon, a higher 150 AQI was monitored, according to the CDRRMO head.
According to Labadia, the normal AQI level in their monitoring is only between 25.1 to 45.1.
The CDRRMO is continuing to monitor the air quality condition due to the haze that is affecting Tagbilaran City and other parts of Bohol.
The CDRRMO has also coordinated with the Department of Education (DepEd) to discuss possible measures to be implemented, including the possibility of canceling classes, if the haze continues or worsens.
Labadia called on the public to wear facemasks especially when going out of the house to avoid directly inhaling dirty air.
He also warned that the effects of the haze are more dangerous for individuals with respiratory system illnesses, so additional caution is needed especially for those who are sensitive to air quality.
The haze affecting Bohol and other parts of the Visayas is linked to transboundary smoke from forest fires in Indonesia that was carried by the wind toward the Philippines. Ardy
DepEd Bohol holds National Simultaneous School Safety Drill
The Department of Education (DepEd)-Bohol Division conducted the National Simultaneous School Safety Drill on September 3, to focus on the readiness of schools in case of an active threat.
Phillip Marcelo Vigonte, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Coordinator of DepEd Bohol said that the safety drill was conducted in public schools across the entire province.
This was in line with the directive of the DepEd-Central Office.
The activity was participated in by the Philippine National Police, disaster and emergency personnel, medical personnel, students, teachers and other stakeholders.
According to Vigonte, the purpose of the safety drill is to strengthen and improve security procedures, safety, and preparedness of students and teachers against various hazards or emergencies.
Since some schools have other activities, Vigonte said that schools were given the freedom to set their own schedule for conducting the safety drill.
Not long ago, an orientation on the safety drill for active attack incidents was held and was attended by school principals or school heads of public and private schools, Philippine National Police, Parent Teachers Association (PTA), disaster response personnel and other school stakeholders.
The goal of the meeting was to ensure that the role of each agency and school is clear in responding to an active attack situation for students and teachers.
Tagbilaran air quality improves to “unhealthy” but public urged to stay cautious
The Tagbilaran City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (TCDRRMO) announced the development in the air quality in Tagbilaran City due to the haze or thick smoke but caution is still needed.
Based on CDRRMO monitoring, the air quality is now “unhealthy” from “very unhealthy,” after the Air Quality Index dropped to 38.8 at 8:15 in the morning, on Sept. 4, from 108.
Even though the situation has improved, Labadia warned that the smoke currently covering the air in the entire city is still dangerous to health especially for people who are at high risk.
Because of this, sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and those with asthma or heart disease are urged to avoid prolonged or heavy outdoor activities until the air quality further improves.
The CDRRMO is continuing to monitor the air quality condition due to the haze affecting Tagbilaran City and other parts of Bohol.
The CDRRMO has also coordinated with the Department of Education (DepEd) to discuss possible measures to be implemented, including the possibility of canceling classes, if the haze continues or worsens.
Labadia called on the public to wear facemasks especially when going out of the house to avoid directly inhaling dirty air.
He also warned that the effects of the haze are more dangerous for individuals with respiratory system illnesses, so additional caution is needed especially for those who are sensitive to air quality.
PDRRMO warns of haze in Panglao and poor air in Tagbilaran
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Bohol issued a warning after the presence of haze was recorded in the municipality of Panglao and poor air quality in Tagbilaran City.
According to PDRRMO Head Anthony Damalerio, in an interview with DYTR NEWS, their office immediately coordinated with the Office of Civil Defense Region 7 (OCD-7) where monitoring confirmed that haze was recorded in the area of Panglao.
Following this situation, Governor Erico Aris Aumentado has issued an official advisory to provide directives and information to the people.
The public is encouraged and reminded to wear face masks when going out of the house as protection against the possible effects of the dirty air on the respiratory system.
Bilar suspends classes due to haze and poor air quality
The Municipal Government of Bilar suspended classes in Kindergarten, Elementary and Secondary levels, in public and private schools, due to the haze and worsening poor air quality.
The class suspension was ordered by Mayor Norman Palacio, effective immediately and will continue until there is a new announcement from the local government.
The haze is believed to be related to smoke from forest fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, Indonesia, where the smoke and particulate matter were carried by the prevailing wind toward some parts of the Philippines, including Bohol.
The local government encouraged the public to stay inside their homes when possible and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities to protect their health.
School heads and other concerned officials were also ordered to immediately disseminate the memorandum and ensure that the class suspension is properly and immediately implemented.
The Municipal Government of Bilar urged Bilarnons to remain vigilant, prioritize health and safety, and continue to monitor official announcements for further updates.
DOE targets to cut Red Alert in Visayas before Christmas with 250MW battery storage
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin aims to reduce, and possibly avoid, the repeated declaration of Red Alert in the Visayas before Christmas by operating additional battery energy storage systems with a capacity of up to 250 megawatts (MW), including the deployment of floating diesel power barges.
These steps were taken to strengthen the power supply in the Visayas and Mindanao grids, which continue to be affected by outages in some power plants.
Yesterday, the Visayas and Mindanao grids were also placed under Red Alert status again due to insufficient electricity reserve supply.
According to Garin, she expects the frequency of power supply alerts to decrease this month when the additional battery storage capacity goes into operation.
But she clarified that the possibility of supply shortage will still not be completely eliminated.
Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DOE) is also working to acquire power barges that can serve as additional temporary sources of electricity before the end of the year.
According to the Energy Secretary, she will push to provide the additional supply capacity “before Christmas really arrives.”
New baseload generation capacity is also not expected to come in until the period between 2028 and 2030, so for now the government will rely on short-term solutions and existing plants to maintain adequate electricity supply.
Garin also said that the DOE will use its power as regulator to hold operators of aging plants accountable and ensure their reliable operation.
She said that the public should not be allowed to suffer just because power plants fail to operate.
The DOE pointed out that operating additional battery storage and deploying power barges are steps to prevent the repeated Red and Yellow Alerts, especially in the Visayas, in the coming months.
“Balay sa Paglaum” in Ubay razed by fire; probe ongoing
Authorities are continuing to investigate the sudden burning of a house in the municipality of Ubay, Bohol, which left a young man and his siblings with nothing salvaged.
The house was built through the Libreng Alagad ug Balay (LAB Project) and Balay sa Paglaum initiative of Governor Aris Aumentado and Congressman Van-Van Aumentado.
It was supposed to serve as the new shelter for the victim identified as Dong Aprol, a young man who was the only one bearing the responsibility of supporting and sending his younger siblings to school after their mother abandoned them and their father passed away.
Investigators are now deepening their examination of the ground zero and are looking into all circumstances to determine the true cause of the fire.
Authorities are currently focusing on angles to determine if the tragedy was just an accident or an intentional act (arson).
While waiting for the official result of the investigation, the victims are now facing extreme hardship after losing their only hope of a home.
SSS to launch P40 billion “Energy Sustainability Loan” next year for solar and EVs
The Social Security System (SSS) has created a new “Energy Sustainability Loan” program that is expected to be rolled out in the first half of next year to help its members shift to using renewable energy.
According to SSS President Robert Joseph de Claro in a briefing, the policies for this program with an allocated P40 billion are already being prepared.
Through this, members can borrow P200,000 to P400,000 that they can pay within four to seven years.
The SSS aims to finalize the guidelines and mechanisms for the loan before the end of the current year to ensure proper protection and to make sure that the borrowed money will really be used.
Aside from solar power, the SSS management is also studying the possibility of using the loan as down payment for the purchase of electric vehicles (EV).
This was done by the SSS to provide assistance suited to the needs of its members who cannot afford monthly payments.
GMPH Management addresses patient and ambulance issue
The management of Garcia Memorial Provincial Hospital (GMPH) in Talibon, Bohol issued an official clarification regarding a viral complaint on social media about patient care and the alleged payment for ambulance fare or “patobil.”
According to Dr. Maria Elena Oripaypay, head of the hospital, the patient who was a victim of a hacking incident had an open fracture of the skull and needed tertiary-level care, which is why he was referred to Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center in Tagbilaran City after being stabilized.
The head clarified that the ambulance used was not owned by GMPH but by the LGU Talibon (MDRRMO).
The hospital’s own ambulance had already left because it was used for another referral.
The management explained that the use of the GMPH ambulance is free in accordance with the provincial ordinance, and the issue of “patobil” should be answered by the LGU since it is not covered by their policy.
Governor Aris Aumentado had earlier ordered an investigation into the incident, while reminding that ambulance service in all district hospitals under the provincial government is really free.
Fire razes 11 houses in Loon; 18 families affected
Twelve (12) homes were affected, with eleven (11) of them completely burned down when a fire broke out in Purok 3, Brgy. Napo, in the municipality of Loon past 8:10 in the morning on September 1, 2026.
The BFP LOON reported in an interview with Dytr News that around 18 families were affected and lost their homes in the incident, but authorities expressed gratitude because there were no reported fatalities or injuries (negative casualty).
The fire spread very quickly because the houses were made of light materials, the area was densely packed, and strong winds made it worse.
The Loon Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) responded quickly by deploying two firetrucks, and the Maribojoc BFP also sent additional personnel to help control the blaze.
Based on the initial investigation by Loon BFP, the fire started in a house where there was a student boarder.
According to the report from the caretaker of the residential house, the student had a habit of leaving appliances running or plugged in, so he was the one who always had to unplug them every morning.
BFP Loon revealed that the estimated structural damage from the fire yesterday in Purok 3 Brgy. Napo, Loon is at ₱1.3-million, not yet including the equipment and important documents of the affected residents.
Eleven of the 12 houses were completely burned down, leaving 18 families or 62 individuals without homes.
The Provincial Government of Bohol and LGU Loon have already provided assistance to the affected families.
Boy injured in rabid dog attack in Booy, Tagbilaran
A young boy sustained bite wounds in various parts of his face after he was attacked by a rabid dog in Barangay Booy, Tagbilaran City.
It was learned that the victim was coming from school and was on his way home when he was suddenly attacked by the rabid dog.
According to his mother, who sells fish by the roadside, her child stopped by before going home.
When he was walking toward their house, the mother was surprised that he came back with a bloodied face because he was attacked by a dog.
The victim was immediately rushed to the hospital, while the rabid dog was killed with the help of residents in the area.
Call for Caingget Beach rehabilitation launched
The Caingget Beach Vendors & Fisherfolks Association (KBVFA) through its president David Rey Tirol is now calling on the public for help for the full restoration or rehabilitation of Kainget Beach located in Tagbilaran City.
It was learned that this popular swimming and leisure spot previously suffered major damage to its facilities such as seawalls due to past calamities, especially the severe impact of Typhoon Odette in 2021, as well as the continuing battering of big waves that contributed to the gradual destruction of the shoreline.
The group wants to bring back the former safe, clean, and beautiful scenery of the place which is one of the favorite gathering spots of Boholano families.
The place is also a favorite of many because of its fresh seafoods.
To achieve this, the association formally launched the “Kainget Beach Rehabilitation Project” where they are encouraging generous hearts to donate or to voluntarily join the upcoming coastal cleanup and mangrove planting drives.
According to the association, every peso collected will be used to repair the damaged seawall, fix public facilities, and set up a proper waste management system.
For those who wish to give financial assistance, it can be sent through GCash at number 09917236145 under the name Kainget Beach Vendors & Fisherfolks Association, or through Bank Transfer to BPI Account Number 1209-1643-09.
In-kind donations such as construction materials, empty sacks, trash bins, tools, and paint are also warmly accepted.
For those who want to volunteer or sponsor, you may send a message or contact KBVFA President David Rey Tirol directly at 09917236145.