Loon highlights education through community college and seeks to improve district hospital services
Loon Mayor Cesar Tomas Lopez said that it is important to provide education especially to underprivileged students, and that is the very reason why Colegio de Loon exists.
Lopez believes that education is the great equalizer and that the college can help those who seek quality education despite financial limitations.
As of the moment, the college is fully subsidized by the local government unit, where 80 students are currently enrolled in the tourism program.
The said college is led by Bobong Legitimas and is ably supported by some consultants who help ensure the quality of instruction.
Lopez later said that the school will tap into scholarship programs extended to community colleges in order to sustain its operations in the long term.
Lopez happily announced that the Cong. Natalio Castillo Memorial Medical Center has been operating in its new location after the old facility was damaged by the earthquake.
He noted that the new hospital was completed during the time of former Gov. Art Yap and that its construction was started during the time of Edgar Chatto.
The real issue, he pointed out, is why people still prefer to visit the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center rather than avail of the facility in Loon.
Lopez said that it boils down to perception, as many believe that the medical practitioners in the Loon hospital are less capable compared to the doctors at Gallares Hospital.
It seems that people have less trust and confidence toward the personnel of the district hospital, which affects its utilization.
Therefore, Lopez suggested that the Provincial Government should take bold steps to attract capable specialists in order to improve the public’s perception of the medical staff of the hospital.
Another suggestion he raised is to address the congestion at Gallares Hospital, which continues to be a pressing concern.
Lopez has observed that 70 to 80 percent of patients at Gallares Hospital are from Tagbilaran City and neighboring towns such as Dauis and Baclayon.
He suggested that the City Government should invest in a city hospital to help decongest the provincial facility.
He floated the idea of reviving mothballed hospital facilities such as Borja Family Hospital, Tagbilaran Maternity Hospital, and Nazareno Hospital for this purpose.
Lopez suggested that Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap should consider investing in reviving the mothballed facility in order to decongest Gallares Hospital.
This way, some patients may no longer need to go and seek medical attention at Gallares because they can already get help at the city hospital.
Moreover, this is one way to help address the pressing problem of congestion at Gallares Hospital in Tagbilaran, as Lopez also suggested for Gallares Cortes to be more flexible in accepting patients.
He said that this vision can be realized if the city government will see the value of his suggestions, even highlighting that there could be a return of investment for such an initiative.
TANOCAL finalizes plans for upcoming medical mission
Tagbilaran Association of Northern California (TANOCAL) President Arturo Romanos revealed that the group is currently building up plans that will culminate in the staging of a medical mission.
Romanos said that he is busy preparing together with US-based doctors prior to the event that will take place in February 2027.
He added that he has been coordinating with various groups in Bohol to help the organization realize the goals of the mission.
Around 1,500 patients are expected to be served by the medical mission, which will also include a dental component where patients can avail of services from capable dentists.
Romanos also informed the public that the group will also provide other free items such as medicine, reading eyeglasses, and canes for senior citizens.
The children will also receive toys and other free items from the mission as part of its community outreach efforts.
There are several venues being considered for the activity, and one of them is the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Taloto and the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center.
Romanos promised to provide more updates in relation to the medical mission that is envisioned to become a more regular event for Boholanos.
TESDA Bohol grants scholarships to over 6,000
About 6,638 persons have availed themselves of the various scholarship programs offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Bohol.
This information was provided by Dr. Floro Ringca, TESDA Bohol Provincial Director.
He disclosed that about P156 million has been spent for various scholarship programs, including the Training for Work Scholarship Program, among others.
One may avail himself of a scholarship slot by visiting the TESDA Bohol office at B. Inting St. near City Hall, or at the various Provincial Training Centers in Tubigon, Inabanga, Bilar, Pilar, and Jagna, or at the various technical-vocational centers.
Ringca said that one may get more information about the available scholarships via the TESDA website or through social media.
The provincial director also clarified that programs may be availed of multiple times as long as the previous one has already been finished.
Meanwhile, Ringca divulged that TESDA Bohol received the Galing Probinsya Award.
He added that he is also a top 3 finalist in Category 4, while the training center in Bilar is likewise a finalist in the awards.
BFP Bohol sends fire trucks, personnel to ASEAN meeting in Lapu-Lapu
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) sent seven fire trucks and 70 personnel to Lapu-Lapu City to provide reinforcement during the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Meeting from October 26 to 30, 2026.
The goal of the deployment is to provide added support and help ensure the maintenance of peace and order during the high-level gathering.
The deployment was confirmed by Chief Insp. Raul Bustaliño.
The equipment and personnel, which are stationed in Bohol, will remain in Cebu Province for the remainder of the ASEAN meeting.
The ASEAN meeting of defence ministers is one of the high-level meetings being conducted in the Queen City of the South.
Moreover, Bustaliño was also named as a protocol officer of the said meeting.
It has been an honor for Bohol to provide assistance as force multipliers and to ensure peace and order throughout the event.
The equipment is also meant to provide immediate support for any emergency situation that may arise during the meeting.
Purpose-driven life remains key focus for nursing students
A nursing student often navigates the world around her seeking a clear trajectory, yet there are times when goals can be missed along the way.
For Angelie Baker, getting lost can happen anytime, but she manages to tune herself back by emphasizing her life’s purpose as her guiding force.
Baker, who has faced many challenges, has encountered a number of trials that could have easily caused her to lose her way in the maze of life.
Yet somehow, she was able to gather her wits and bring herself back into focus in order to make the most out of what life has to offer for her.
In these challenging times, it would have been easier to just surrender and let things go, but she made a conscious decision to move forward because there are people who may need inspiration and she can help give them a glimmer of hope.
Baker was the guest of Carl Hinlo and Lowie Jhon Bugahod in the October 30, 2026 episode of Kabataan for Change (KFC).
She shared her story with the public because she wants to imbibe inspiration among the youth and encourage them to keep going despite difficulties.
She admitted that she might not be a perfect person, but she continuously tries to become a better individual who lives with purpose and remains driven toward her goals and aspirations.
Tutor urges ERC to protect consumers from power rate hikes
Third District Representative Christine Alexie Tutor urged the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to protect consumers from price surges related to electric bills.
She asked the ERC to use its authority under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to safeguard the public.
She pointed out that distribution and generation utilities should not use the downturn of the peso-dollar exchange, now pegged at P64, as a justification for increases.
The solon argued that the foreign exchange rate should not be used as a scapegoat to increase the charges reflected in electricity bills.
She said that the ERC should maintain a just and fair charging system for consumers and ensure that they are protected from unjust charges.
She noted that the ERC already has a mechanism that protects consumers by deferring the disconnection of qualified accounts during difficult periods.
Moreover, there are mechanisms that allow the installment payment of bills during a national energy emergency.
Tutor made this statement in order to protect the people of her district as well as other areas in Bohol from potential financial burden.
She warned that abusive practices may likely happen if the ERC refuses to act against potential price surges.
Police remind public: No weapons, alcohol in cemeteries
The Bohol police warned the public against bringing sharp weapons and alcohol into cemeteries.
Bohol police spokesman Maj. Joseph Lopena said that sharp weapons are considered prohibited items, along with alcoholic beverages.
The public is also warned against consuming alcohol inside cemeteries and is urged to observe the smoking policy in the area, including the use of vapes.
Lopena told the public to follow the scheduled opening and closing of cemeteries to prevent any untoward incidents.
He added that bringing loudspeakers or karaoke sets is not encouraged in order to maintain peace and quiet inside the cemetery.
At all times, the public should display discipline and courtesy to help keep peace and order.
The reminder was issued to ensure safety during the holiday as people flock to cemeteries for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
PAL mounts A330 maiden flight to Bohol
Philippine Airlines (PAL) mounted its A330neo for its maiden flight to Bohol on October 27, 2026.
The bigger plane landed at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport at around 6 a.m.
The new plane carried around 141 passengers and is capable of bringing more passengers in succeeding flights.
The A330 is able to accommodate more passengers, which is good news for travelers and tourists alike.
The goal is to bring down the cost of travel by having a bigger aircraft to serve the Bohol-Manila route.
It is hoped that there will be more A330 flights from Manila to Bohol, bringing more tourists into the province.
Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Bohol general manager Pogs Ybañez confirmed the arrival of the A330neo at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport.
LTO deploys program to keep roads safe for Undas
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) deployed its personnel to keep roads safer during the holiday, as more people are expected to visit public areas such as cemeteries and churches.
Led by Regional Director Wendell Dinglasan, the LTO implemented its program to improve road safety by conducting road monitoring and checkpoints.
The program will run until November 4, 2026, after the celebration of All Saints’ Day.
The LTO designated areas where they will check motorists’ compliance with traffic rules and regulations.
The agency hopes that land travel will be smoother and less of a hassle for commuters and motorists alike.
The LTO set up various monitoring points in Central Visayas to check for compliance and ensure that traffic rules are not violated.
Moreover, the LTO has been at the forefront of keeping roads safe from undisciplined drivers by conducting checkpoints and issuing citation tickets to violators.
PNP deploys personnel to ensure safe Undas
The Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed more than a thousand personnel across Bohol together with other uniformed agencies to ensure a safer and more peaceful celebration of Undas or All Saints’ Day.
Bohol police spokesman Maj. Joseph Lopena said that police personnel were stationed in heavy-traffic areas such as cemeteries, air and seaports, churches, and other areas where people congregate during the holidays.
Aside from the police, personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard were designated to help maintain peace during the holiday.
The deployment is part of the commitment to secure and keep peace and order in all public places during the long weekend.
The security detail included the setting up of assistance desks in public places to help people who need help.
More than 3,000 personnel across all services have been deployed to maintain peace and ensure that no untoward incident happens during the holiday.
Tagbilaran Diocese thanks Saco for stewardship
The Diocese of Tagbilaran expressed gratitude and profound thanks to Fr. Gerardo Saco for his stewardship of the Diocese during the sede vacante.
The Diocese was led by Saco when Bishop Alberto Uy was sent to Cebu to head the Archdiocese of Cebu back in September 2025.
Saco was designated as the diocesan administrator while waiting for the appointment of a regular bishop.
Saco’s task as administrator ended when Pope Leo XIV appointed Bishop Crispin Varquez as the new Bishop of Tagbilaran.
In a statement, the Diocese appreciated the leadership of Saco during the transition period when the seat of the bishop was unoccupied.
Saco was originally considered as the new Bishop of Tagbilaran but declined for personal reasons. Saco felt that he was not the right fit to become bishop and would rather remain as an ordinary priest who is on a mission to evangelize.
Saco will then revert to his simple parish now that his role as administrator has ended with the installation of Varquez.
Varquez, who is from Sevilla, heads the biggest diocese in Bohol where he started out as a simple priest. Varquez, who was installed as the eighth Bishop of Tagbilaran, will now bring the Diocese into a new era and usher in new hope among the faithful.
OPA to seek more budget for cloud seeding in 2027
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) is planning to ask for a bigger budget allocation for more cloud seeding flights next year.
Reports indicate the OPA is looking at P10 million as budget for more cloud seeding flights in 2027.
Provincial Agriculturist Liza Quirog is looking to ask for funding from the Bureau of Soils and Water Management but has not yet received a reply to the funding request.
Nonetheless, the OPA hopes to add more flights on top of the 31 flights approved this year, where about six flights were already consumed.
The OPA sees cloud seeding as a tool to help farmers cope with low water supply as a result of the drought brought about by El Niño.
It is expected that less rainfall will occur in the next few months due to El Niño.
It is important to conduct cloud seeding when conditions are optimal in order to maximize results. Spotting the right conditions is necessary to increase the chances of getting the best result, which is rain falling onto farmlands to irrigate these areas.
As of the moment, millions in damage have been reported across Bohol, with losses to agriculture and threats to water supply due to fewer rains.
Fisherfolk rescue DepEd personnel from drowning
It took the quick reaction of some fisherfolk to save the lives of Department of Education (DepEd) personnel whose banca capsized off the coast of Getafe on October 23, 2026.
The quick action of the fisherfolk averted certain death as the personnel were on the verge of drowning.
Around 17 personnel were rescued when their motorized banca sank off Nasingin Island.
The personnel came from Jagoliao Island to inaugurate a classroom. They were traveling toward mainland Getafe when the mishap occurred.
The victims were brought to the Getafe port and given medical attention.
Meanwhile, Getafe Mayor Cary Camacho thanked the local fisherfolk and the Philippine Coast Guard for rescuing the victims. He said he was thankful that no one died and everyone was rescued.
Bohol police deploy 3,036 personnel for Undas security
The Bohol Police Provincial Office has deployed 3,036 personnel to keep order during the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day observances, officials said Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026.
Provincial Director Col. Patricio Degay Jr. led a send-off ceremony Wednesday, joined by representatives of various government agencies.
Authorities expect about 240,000 people to visit cemeteries across the province, including tourists and Boholanos returning home to remember departed loved ones.
Police have stepped up security at cemeteries, major roads and tourist destinations.
Of the personnel, 1,334 are from the Philippine National Police and 403 from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine Coast Guard. The remaining 1,299 come from disaster risk reduction and management offices, medical teams, barangay public safety officers, force multipliers and nongovernment organizations.
Rev. William Buan of PACEM led the blessing of troops and vehicles to be used in the operation.
Also present were 2nd Lt. Jusier Superales of the Philippine Army, Lt. j.g. Babe Jocelie Isaga, acting commander of Coast Guard Station Western Bohol, and Senior Fire Officer 4 Manuel Babera of the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Degay thanked the personnel and officials involved in the preparations. He stressed the importance of duty, health and readiness in providing effective public service.
He urged personnel to work together to maintain peace and order throughout the province during the holiday.
The police office also appealed to the public to remain vigilant, follow security rules and cooperate with authorities for a safe and peaceful observance.
Woman, 80, killed after being hit by motorcycle in Panglao, Bohol
An 80-year-old woman died Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, after she was hit by a motorcycle while standing at the side of a road in Barangay Libaong, Panglao, Bohol, around 7 a.m.
Panglao Municipal Police Station investigators said the victim was standing by the roadside when the motorcycle struck her.
The driver was reportedly dazzled by oncoming headlights.
She was rushed to a hospital but died shortly after.
The motorcycle driver and his backrider were also injured.
They were taken to the Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center in Tagbilaran City for treatment.
Charges are expected to be filed against the driver in connection with the incident.
Cyclist, 70, killed in Calape hit-and-run
A 70-year-old cyclist died after a water tanker truck ran over him and kept going Tuesday night, Oct. 27, 2026, in Barangay Desamparados, Calape, Bohol, police said.
Preliminary investigation showed the man was heading home from his job at a vulcanizing shop when the incident happened shortly after 7 p.m.
Police said his bicycle toppled in Barangay Sta. Cruz because of a rough road.
Before he could get up, the tanker ran over him and did not stop.
The victim was taken to a hospital but died of severe injuries.
Police are working to identify and locate the driver to face investigation and charges.
Pedestrian killed after Nissan van hits him in Tagbilaran City
A 45-year-old pedestrian died after a Nissan van hit him while he was crossing to the other lane at Bool Junction, Tagbilaran City, near Borja Bridge, shortly after 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026.
The victim was married and a resident of Bool Junction, Tagbilaran City.
An investigation by the Tagbilaran City Police Station showed the man was about to cross when the van suddenly struck him.
Personnel from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office took him to Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center for treatment, but Dr. Fatima Gade declared him dead on arrival shortly after 9:49 p.m.
The van was driven by a 38-year-old single man from Purok 3, Barangay Tawala, Panglao, Bohol.
The driver was taken to the Tagbilaran City Police Station, where he remains in temporary custody while the investigation continues.
Criminology student stabbed in Alburquerque; suspect arrested within 5 minutes
A 42-year-old graphic artist was arrested within five minutes after police responded to a stabbing of a 22-year-old criminology student in Barangay Bahi, Albur, Bohol on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 25, 2026.
The Alburquerque Municipal Police Station received the report shortly after 3:15 p.m.
Police Lt. Junrel Boniel, the police chief, led the response that resulted in the suspect’s arrest at his residence in Purok 6, Barangay Bahi.
The victim, a Bachelor of Science in Criminology student, lives in Centro 2, Janssen Heights, Dampas, Tagbilaran City. Personnel from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office took him to Tagbilaran City Hospital for treatment.
An initial investigation showed the suspect said he felt afraid because the student repeatedly came to his house for no clear reason, police said. The two did not know each other, according to police.
The suspect allegedly used a kitchen knife in the attack. Police recovered the knife.
The suspect is detained at the Alburquerque police station’s custodial facility while authorities prepare a frustrated homicide charge against him.
Tarsier 911 ordinance pushed by board member Dionisio Joseph Balite
It was pushed by Board Member Dionisio Joseph Balite for the first reading of the provincial ordinance that will transfer from Tarsier 117 to Tarsier 911.
It was pushed during the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan headed by Vice-Governor Nic Besas.
The proposed ordinance was referred to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee of the Whole.
The move was created after the visit of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla here in Bohol and he requested the provincial government to unite with the unified 911 emergency response program.
Automatic weather station installed in Catigbian
The official turnover and installation ceremony of an Automatic Weather Station (AWS) was held in Barangay Causwagan, town of Catigbian, as part of the effort to strengthen the town’s preparedness and improve local agriculture against the threat of climate change.
The said facility was provided through the coordination and support of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Project SARAI (Smarter Approaches to Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry) Central Visayas Center.
Great joy and gratitude was expressed for the said project because it is seen to serve as a powerful tool for the community, especially for the farmers of Catigbian.
Through this equipment, the town can now obtain accurate and immediate information about the weather condition, which will help farmers in properly planning their planting, irrigation, fertilization, and harvesting to protect their yields against bad weather.
The Automatic Weather Station (AWS) is a modern facility designed to automatically measure and record various meteorological data — such as the amount of rainfall (rainfall), air temperature, wind speed and direction (wind speed and direction), humidity, and solar radiation — in a real-time manner without the need for manual observation.
Through its integration with Project SARAI of DOST, the collected data will be used to provide localized crop advisories and micro-climate forecasts that will also help the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) in preparing against floods, drought, and other natural calamities.
2 motorists injured in Candijay collision, one suspected drunk
Two motorists were injured, one of them seriously hurt, after their motorcycles collided on the national highway in Barangay La Union, Candijay, Bohol, past 7:45 in the evening on Monday, October 26.
The driver who is 30 years old, single, product promoter of Panasonic, from Barangay Casate, Ubay, is suspected of driving at high speed and under the influence of intoxicating liquor when he entered the opposite lane and hit the motorcycle driven by a 29-year-old, with live-in partner, JNT driver and from Barangay Bulawan, Mabini.
The 29-year-old motor rider came from Alicia heading to Barangay Bulawan, Mabini, while the 30-year-old motor rider was traveling from Candijay to Ubay when the collision happened.
The two were brought to Candijay Community Hospital for treatment.
The 29-year-old motor rider was transferred to Don Emilio del Valle Memorial Hospital in Ubay, while the 30-year-old motor rider was brought to Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital in Tagbilaran City due to serious injuries.
The two motorcycles were brought to Candijay Police Station for documentation and proper disposition.
A follow-up investigation of the incident was conducted by the police.
49-year-old suspected drug pusher arrested in Carmen, ₱31,892 worth of suspected shabu seized
A 49-year-old man who is said to be listed as a drug pusher by the police was caught in a buy-bust operation by the police, and 4.69 grams of suspected shabu estimated to be worth ₱31,892 was seized from him in Carmen, Bohol, on Monday evening, October 26.
The suspect is single, unemployed and a resident of Barangay Villarcayo, Carmen, who was reported to be already on the drug watchlist of the police.
The suspect was arrested by the Municipal Drug Enforcement Team of the Carmen Police Station, headed by police chief PCapt. Carljobel Lofranco, at 6:35 in the evening near the new municipal building in Barangay Poblacion Sur.
One sachet containing 1.52 grams of suspected shabu was recovered as allegedly sold in the operation.
Two other sachets were also recovered containing a total of 3.17 grams of suspected shabu which is said to be still owned by the suspect.
The two have a total amount of 4.69 grams of suspected shabu.
Also recovered was ₱500 used as buy-bust money and one piece of paper said to be a container of the said substance.
The seized evidence was submitted to the Bohol Forensic Unit for laboratory examination and custody.
The suspect was first brought to Cong. Simeon Toribio Memorial Hospital for medical examination before he was brought to Carmen Police Station for proper disposition.
The suspect will face cases related to selling and possession of illegal drugs under Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Intoxicating drinks, weapons prohibited in cemeteries during Undas — Bohol PPO
The Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) reminded the public to avoid bringing prohibited items such as intoxicating drinks and weapons inside cemeteries to ensure a peaceful and orderly celebration of Undas.
PMaj. Joseph Lopena, public information officer of the BPPO, encouraged cemetery visitors to follow the rules and security measures implemented by the local governments.
Bringing intoxicating drinks, weapons, sharp objects and other dangerous items inside cemeteries is prohibited, except for weapons used by authorized security personnel in performing their duties.
Bringing gambling paraphernalia, playing loud music, using karaoke machines and loudspeakers that may disturb other visitors is also not allowed.
The public was also encouraged to follow the rules against smoking and use of vape.
PMaj. Lopena also reminded visitors to follow the set opening and closing hours of cemeteries, not to stay overnight if prohibited, and to properly dispose of garbage by implementing the “clean as you go” policy.
The public information officer also encouraged the public to be vigilant against people who may take advantage of the large number of visitors, including fraudsters who pretend to be priests and ask for payment for blessings.
The public was advised to confirm the identity of religious personalities through their official parish.
Under the leadership of Provincial Director PCol. Patricio Degay Jr., the BPPO urged the public to immediately report to the police suspicious activities and to cooperate with security personnel to prevent crime and ensure a peaceful celebration of Undas.
Ombudsman moves to withdraw case against Duero mayor, finds legal defect
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) asked the Sandiganbayan to withdraw the criminal case against Duero, Bohol Mayor Al Cadorniga Taculad because, according to the prosecutors, the case has no strong legal basis to impose criminal punishment on him.
In the six-page motion dated October 27, 2026 and submitted to the Sixth Division of the anti-graft court, the prosecutors said that the alleged violation of the Local Government Code of 1991 is not a criminal offense with a penalty under the provisions of the law used to file the case.
The motion was based on the legal principle nullum crimen, nulla poena sine lege, which means there is no crime and no punishment if there is no law that defines such offense and prescribes its punishment.
The case, titled People of the Philippines v. Al Cadorniga Taculad and with Case No. E-SB-26-CRM-0071, originated from the Information filed on September 4, 2026.
Taculad was accused of continuing private business while serving as mayor.
It is alleged that he owns Altacs Construction, which implemented the Guinsularan River Control and Rain Water Collector System project worth ₱76.22 million, where the Municipality of Duero is the beneficiary.
However, according to the OSP, Section 90(a) of Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code prohibits mayors from practicing their profession or engaging in private work while in office, but it does not prescribe a criminal penalty for violating it.
The prosecutors also explained that Section 514 of the said law, which lays down penalties for some violations, applies only to offenses under Section 89.
It cannot be expanded by mere interpretation or analogy to cover another provision that has no clear criminal penalty.
The motion also questioned the use of some provisions of Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees as basis for the case.
After reviewing the records and the initial resolution of the Ombudsman on January 20, 2026, the prosecutors concluded that the prohibited acts under Sections 7(b)(1) and 9 of the said law should not be applied to the allegations against Taculad.
The filing of the motion was recommended by Assistant Special Prosecutors Gian Carla V. Hernal and Madonna Lyn E. Casares, Acting Director Julieta Zinnia A. Niduaza and Deputy Special Prosecutor Omar L. Sagadal, and it was approved by the Ombudsman.
However, the Sandiganbayan will still decide whether to grant the request of the prosecutors.
The OSP cited the Supreme Court decision in Crespo v. Mogul and Rural Bank of Mabitac, Laguna, Inc. v. Canicon et al., which states that once the Information has been submitted to the court, the said court has the authority to decide whether to allow its withdrawal or the dismissal of the criminal case.
The motion of the OSP does not yet mean that the case has been concluded or dismissed.
It will still wait for the decision of the Sandiganbayan on the request to withdraw the case against Taculad.
Humility, helping poor highlighted as Bishop Bai installed as 8th bishop of Tagbilaran
Humility in service, helping the poor and unity in the Church were emphasized by leaders of the Catholic Church during the installation of Most Rev. Crispin “Bai” Varquez as the eighth bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran on Tuesday, October 27.
They called on priests and faithful to support Varquez in his leadership of the diocese and to cooperate in continuing the mission of the Church.
In his homily during the mass at Tagbilaran Cathedral, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula emphasized Varquez’s motto Humilitas et Simplicitas or Humility and Simplicity.
He reminded the new bishop to trust in God’s guidance and remain humble in fulfilling his mission.
Advincula compared the bishop to clay molded by the potter, which describes readiness to be guided by God.
He also urged the faithful to support Varquez through prayer and cooperation.
Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Charles John Brown, on the other hand, used the message written on the ceiling of the cathedral which urges to rejoice in the presence of God.
He urged the faithful to come closer to God by helping the poor, protecting their dignity and cooperating in the spiritual journey.
Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy, who served the Diocese of Tagbilaran for nine years before becoming archbishop of Cebu, welcomed Varquez as his successor and marked the beginning of a new chapter for the local Church.
Uy urged the faithful to accompany the new bishop through prayer, cooperation and patience, because he cannot guide the diocese alone.
The installation of Varquez marks the beginning of his leadership and a new chapter of the Diocese of Tagbilaran, where emphasis is given to humility, service to the poor and unity in continuing the mission of the Church in Bohol.
2 most wanted for drugs nabbed in Bohol; carnapping warrant served on inmate in Tagbilaran
Two most-wanted persons for illegal drugs were arrested in Maribojoc and Sikatuna, while a warrant for a carnapping case was served against a person already imprisoned in Tagbilaran City Jail on October 27.
In Maribojoc, alias Ecoy, 29, No. 8 on the provincial most-wanted list, was arrested.
The warrant against him was for the execution of sentence in two drug cases, which was issued by RTC Branch 49 in Tagbilaran on June 20, 2025.
In Sikatuna, the No. 4 municipal most wanted was also arrested at 2:50 in the afternoon due to cases of selling and possessing illegal drugs.
The warrants were issued by RTC Branch 47 in Tagbilaran on October 27, 2026.
Meanwhile, the Tagbilaran City Police and Molave Police served the warrant against a 22-year-old man who is No. 3 on the city most-wanted list for violation of the New Anti-Carnapping Act.
The warrant was issued by RTC Branch 23 in Molave, Zamboanga del Sur, and bail was set at ₱500,000.
The two drug accused are in police custody, while the carnapping accused remains in prison.
The accused are considered innocent until proven guilty in court.
New bishop of Tagbilaran urges development that protects nature and Boholano culture
The new Bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran, Bishop Crispin ‘Bai’ (‘Bai’ – dear/friend) Varquez, urged government leaders and other sectors to continue tourism and economic development without sacrificing the environment, community, and Boholano culture.
In his homily during the installation Mass at Tagbilaran Cathedral on Tuesday, October 27, Varquez stressed that the number of tourists and jobs generated by tourism alone is not the measure of true development.
He urged Bohol to welcome visitors from different parts of the world without losing the ‘identity’ (‘identity’ – pagka-ila / sense of identity) and traditions of the Boholanos.
According to Varquez, development must protect the environment, respect workers and local communities, and preserve Boholano culture for future generations.
He also emphasized unity among the Church, government, and other sectors to strengthen the Church’s mission of spreading the Gospel.
He urged the faithful to show their faith through words, humility, love, and good example.
Varquez also thanked the people of Eastern Samar where he served for 19 years as bishop of Borongan.
He recalled the hardships they faced, including the massive damage caused by Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.
A native of the Diocese of Tagbilaran, Varquez was appointed by Pope Francis as bishop of Borongan in 2007.
He was appointed by Pope Leo XIV as the eighth bishop of Tagbilaran on September 10, ending a year of vacancy in the diocese.
Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy, Varquez’s predecessor in Tagbilaran, led the ceremony of his installation, with the assistance of Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Charles Brown.
Hundreds of faithful from Bohol and Borongan attended the event, including about 50 bishops from different parts of the country.
₱5.58-billion proposed 2027 budget of Bohol approved on first reading
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) approved on first reading the proposed ₱5.58-billion annual budget of the Provincial Government of Bohol for 2027 during the regular session on Wednesday, October 28.
The session was presided over by Vice-Governor Nic Besas where the proposed Annual Budget amounting to ₱5,588,666,106.20 was discussed.
The budget was based on the letter of Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado dated October 9, 2026, where he submitted to the SP the proposed budget for consideration and approval in accordance with Section 318 of the Local Government Code.
Of the total amount, ₱5,577,894,407.20 is for the General Fund or Local Expenditure Program, while ₱10,771,699 is allocated for the Local Economic Enterprise, especially for the operation of Café Caloy.
After approval on first reading, the appropriation ordinance was forwarded to the Committee on Finance, Budget and Appropriations for detailed review and deliberation.
The committee, headed by Board Member Romulo Cepedoza, will set schedules for the budget hearing where the heads of various provincial departments and the 10 chiefs of hospital are expected to attend.
During the hearings, officials are expected to explain and defend their respective budget allocations and programs for fiscal year 2027.
BFP-7 implements code red alert for Undas; 506 personnel deployed in Bohol
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP-7) deployed 506 personnel and 92 vehicles and motorcycles throughout Bohol to strengthen fire prevention, emergency response, and public safety during Undas 2026.
Under Oplan Kaluluwa 2026, the BFP placed its units on Code Blue alert from October 28 to 29, before implementing the higher Code Red alert from October 30 to November 3.
BFP-7 Regional Director Fire Chief Superintendent Rodolfo Denaga and Bohol Provincial Fire Marshal Fire Senior Superintendent Raul Bustaliño led the preparations and operations throughout the province.
The deployment covers Tagbilaran City and 47 towns in Bohol, where personnel were assigned to fire suppression, fire safety inspection, emergency medical services, and rescue operations.
Of the total 506 personnel, 324 were assigned to fire suppression, 152 to fire safety inspection, 25 to emergency medical services, and five to the Special Rescue Force.
The BFP also deployed 78 fire trucks, six ambulances, five service vehicles, and three motorcycles under the Fire Auxiliary Support Team (FAST) to speed up response to emergencies.
The Office of the Provincial Fire Marshal handles the coordination of fire stations in the city and towns, together with local government units, the Philippine National Police, disaster risk reduction and management offices, and other partner agencies.
FSupt. Bustaliño reminded the public to strictly observe fire safety precautions during Undas, especially in the use of candles in homes and cemeteries.
The public is also urged to immediately report to the nearest fire station or to the authorities any hazard that could cause a fire.
For emergencies, the public may call the Unified 911 hotline.
3,036 personnel deployed in Bohol for Undas 2026
The Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO) held yesterday, Wednesday, October 28, the send-off ceremony for 3,036 personnel to be deployed throughout the province to provide security and emergency response during Undas 2026.
BPPO Provincial Director PCol. Patricio C. Degay Jr. led the activity which marked the joint preparation of various government agencies for public safety in the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days on November 1 and 2.
Police estimate that about 240,000 people will visit cemeteries throughout Bohol, including tourists and Boholanos returning home to remember their departed loved ones.
Of the total personnel to be deployed, 1,334 are from the Philippine National Police (PNP), while 403 are from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Another 1,299 personnel will come from disaster risk reduction and management offices, medical teams, barangay public safety officers, force multipliers, and non-government organizations.
Representatives from the Philippine Army, PCG, and BFP also attended the send-off ceremony to show inter-agency coordination in maintaining peace and protecting the public.
In his message, Degay thanked the officials and personnel who joined the preparations.
He emphasized the importance of discipline, tight coordination, and continuous vigilance to maintain peace and order throughout the province.
He also reminded personnel to take care of their health and safety to remain ready to perform their duties and provide effective service.
Degay urged the public to be vigilant, follow security rules, and cooperate with the police and other authorities to ensure a safe and peaceful remembrance of the departed during Undas 2026.
Newly identified high-value drug target nabbed in Loon buy-bust
Police arrested a newly identified high-value individual (HVI) in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Pondol, Loon, Bohol, at 3:55 in the afternoon on Tuesday, October 27, where 4.5 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱30,600 was seized.
The suspect was identified as alias Balolong, married, helper, and resident of Purok 6, Barangay Pondol.
The operation was conducted by the Loon Police Station, under the leadership of its chief Maj. Neon Francis B. Alvarez, and four packs of suspected shabu were recovered from the suspect.
One of them, weighing 1.1 grams, was the one bought during the operation, while the other three with a total weight of 3.4 grams were allegedly found in his possession.
Also recovered were the ₱500 used as buy-bust money, an empty pack of Winston cigarettes, and a black Rusi motorcycle.
The seized suspected shabu was brought to the Bohol Provincial Forensic Unit for laboratory examination and custody.
After the operation, the suspect was brought to the hospital for medical examination and to the Loon Police Station, where he was temporarily detained while the case for alleged violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 is being prepared.
70-year-old man dead in hit-and-run accident in Calape
A 70-year-old man died after a hit-and-run accident on the national highway in Barangay Desamparados, Calape, Bohol, on Tuesday night, October 27.
The victim is married and a resident of Barangay Liboron in the said town.
Based on the report of the Calape Police Station, police received information about the accident at 7:40 in the evening.
Police immediately responded and found the victim severely injured.
He was taken to the Mother and Child Hospital for initial treatment, but was transferred to a hospital in Tagbilaran City due to his critical condition.
He was declared dead by attending physician Dr. Wilmar Drilon III at 9:20 in the evening.
According to the report, the cause of his death was hypovolemic shock, cardiac arrest, and severe injury to his left leg that was nearly severed.
The driver involved in the accident has not yet been identified, while police investigation continues to determine exactly what happened.