Bridge in Bohol closed after damage sustained from heavy rains

By Leo Udtohan

TAGBILARAN CITY- The Wahig Pamacsalan Bridge in Pilar town in Bohol province was closed to motorists on Thursday after sustaining heavy damage from days of incessant raining. 

The damage created a big hole, making it dangerous for vehicles and people to cross.

The bridge connects villagers from Lumbay and Poblacion to essential amenities in town and neighboring Sierra Bullones town. 

Gov. Aris Aumentado who personally checked the bridge on Thursday afternoon had already instructed the provincial engineer's office to conduct rapid assessment to repair the new bridge. 

"We will repair it as soon as possible," he said while talking to village officials. 

Local officials advised motorists to take an alternate route while the bridge is awaiting assessment from authorities.

Barangay Captain Geronimo Tutor said the bridge was damaged for the second time after damaged by typhoon Odette in Dec. 2021. 

On Friday, Jan. 13, barangay officials would hold a "bayanihan" to fix the temporary bridge by putting material across the space to allow people to cross and travel into town for services. 

Meanwhile, Aumentado visited evacuation centers to distribute relief packs to the evacuees with Provincial Social Welfare and Development and local governments. 

He distributed packs to 146 families in Clarin town and 38 families in Inabanga town on Thursday. 

A total of 626 families or 788 individuals evacuated in the province due to inclement weather.  

Classes and work in all public institutions were also suspended on Thursday. 

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Photo caption: 

The Wahig Pamacsalan Bridge in Pilar town in Bohol province sustained heavy damage from two days of incessant rains. Photo courtesy of Gov. Aris Aumentado 

Bohol holds 'pastores' contests to preserve tradition

By Leo Udtohan 

TAGBILARAN CITY- Bright and colorful lights filled the provincial Capitol of Bohol grounds and CPG Park on Wednesday night, Dec. 7 to the delight of the hundreds who were present to mark the official start of the Christmas celebration here.

Gov. Aris Aumentado led the countdown which was crowded by employees, officials and residents to witness the official lighting of the Capitol's giant belen (nativity scene) and other Christmas decorations.

He said this year's Christmas celebration, people can sense a feeling of peace, joy, love and goodwill after the pandemic halted the celebration for two years.

"In our busy lives, we should remember the birth of Jesus Christ. He is the reason to be thankful and to celebrate," he said.

He also encouraged his constituents to spread the spirit of joy in their homes and the community and to see the celebration as an opportunity to rekindle acts of love and kindness to one another.

"The life of Jesus Christ is a source of inspiration to all of us to lead a life of virtue and faith," he said.

Also present during the event were Vice Gov. Victor Balite, Mayors Jane Yap, Tata Palacio, Lahar Ayuban and Jed Piollo.

Deputy chief of staff Kit Oppus, former Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary and now provincial administrator Aster Caberte, Center for Culture and Arts Development (CCAD) head  Filipina Asoy-Piollo and Goldie Herrera also attended the event.

Known as "Kasadya 2022" the event also coincided with the "Pastores" contest which aimed to revive and preserve the tradition.

The pastores (Shepherds) is a musical re-enactment of the age-old story of Nativity where the performers are wearing colorful costumes and props.

The tradition was introduced by Spanish priests in the late-1800s. It spread across the region that it became part of the Yuletide celebration in Bohol province although there are variations in different towns.

Prof. Marianito Luspo, a local historian, said that the tradition faces the threat of discontinuity in the province.

Somehow the tradition lost its luster from a lack of interest from the youth to the influences of modern music and the lack of interest by the locals due to the intricacies in performing it.

Aumentado said the provincial government decided to hold the contest in order to  preserve this intangible cultural heritage.

For this year's tilt, the municipality of Corella won the first place with P150, 000 cash prize for their traditional dramatic representation of the shepherds’ adoration of singing and dancing. It also won the Best in Heritage Content and Best in Production Design awards.

Lila town named second placer with P1000,000 cash prize, while Loay town was third placer with P75,000 cash prize.

Meanwhile, Jagna town won the Best in Instrumentation.

Contingents from Tagbilaran City and municipalities of Bilar, Tubigon, Guindulman and Jagna received P30, 000 each as a consolation prize.

Jun Camacho, trainor and coach of Corella team, said the pastores contest allowed the people, especially the youth to embrace the Filipino culture.

"I'm very thankful to the provincial government of Bohol for having this kind of activity which is helpful to our youth for them to feel the Filipino culture," said Camacho, a cultural worker and choreographer.

The Corella team was composed of 30 performers from Corella National High School.

Camacho said at first it was difficult to introduce pastores to the youth because of "generation gap".

"The youth were exposed to hiphop but through practices they've learned to appreciate it. It is a must to continue holding pastores for the revitalization of our rich culture," he said.

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Photo caption:

The pastores (shepherds) contest is one of  the highlights during the lighting ceremony of the provincial Capitol of Bohol on Wednesday night, Dec. 7, 2022. Pastores depicts the shepherds’ jubilation on the birth of Jesus.  Leo Udtohan

Aumentado takes oath as RDC chair

TAGBILARAN CITY-  Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado on Monday asked his fellow elected officials and partner agencies to support him as he led the Regional Development Council (RDC) - Central Visayas being its chairman.

"With humility, I ask for your full support. Please work with me in ensuring that our beloved region achieves sustainability in the areas of food security, economic progress, inclusive growth, shared prosperity, good governance, and better lives for everyone," said Aumentado in his speech after he took his oath of office before Regional Trial Court Branch 2 Judge Jennifer Chavez-Marcos at the Ceremonial Hall at the provincial Capitol.

Aumentado was appointed new RDC chairman by President BongBong Marcos last October 19, 2022. He will serve for a fixed term of three years.

He said he did not expect he would again be entrusted with another responsibility.

"I am 100 percent committed to this responsibility-directing Central Visayas towards becoming an even more progressive and united region against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastations of Super Typhoon Odette," he said.

He said major priority programs and projects in Central Visayas will given fair support.

He said he consulted the business sector for their" wisdom" before he assumed chair.

He said his father, the late Erico Boyles Aumentado, who once served as RDC, was his inspiration.

"He onced served RDC beyond the call of duty; I, too, will devote all my heart and mind for our beloved province of Bohol and the entire Central Visayas region," he said.

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Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado takes his oath of office before Regional Trial Court Branch 2 Judge Jennifer Chavez-Marcos as chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC) - Central Visayas. Leo Udtohan/Inquirer Visayas

Marcela Farms opens new feed mill

By Leo Udtohan 

A business magnate in Bohol province is urging farmers to plant corn and cassava due to the commodities’ emerging local market demand.

Marlito Uy, chief executive officer of Marcela Farms, said that local farmers should realize that these crops are potential raw materials for processing and value adding.

"We need five million kilos or 100 million kilos per month of corn. We are willing to help our farmers. We could provide farm equipment and fertilizer to increase their production and we will buy their products," said Uy during the blessing and ribbon cutting ceremony of their new Marcela Farms feedmill on Wednesday (Nov. 16) in Barangay Lomangog in Ubay town.

So far, they sourced out corn from Mindanao.

"I asked the provincial government to partner with us in assisting our farmers to increase their inputs. In Bohol, farmers can produce three to four tons of corn per hectare," he added.

Bohol has devoted 45% land area to agriculture with rice as number one staple. It is considered the rice bowl in Central Visayas.  However, there are no more 100 hectares of sporadic and backyard -based corn plantations.

Data from the Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (Bedipo) said that rice production  in the province produced 225,548 metric tons or covers 70,117.00 ha of which only 56.11% or 39,346.00 ha are irrigated areas.

In 2018, there are about 11,983 ha of land harvested with corn or 11,216 metric tons. Much of these lands are utilized for white corn production and some lands for yellow corn production.

Being an alternative food for rice, corn is consumed by about 16% of Bohol’s population. The industrial demand for this crop is also increasing, as the livestock sector in the province continues to prosper.

Marcela Farms, part of the Alturas Group of Companies (AGC), has opened the P500-million Marcela Farms feed mill which has the capacity to produce 30 tons of hog and poultry feeds per hour considered among Asia’s few large-scale feed mills. 

The new multi-story structure incorporates top-of-the-line Dutch company Van Aarsen International equipment is the third mill of the company.

The automated feed production line takes care of the intake, grinding, mixing, pelleting, and bagging of animal and aqua feeds.  It serves the dietary requirements of all Marcela Farms’ livestock and aqua operations while utilizing efficient waste management.

The new technology at the mill would help make production workers more efficient and constructive. The company added that the mill is spacious, with abundant warehouse storage and room to work.

“We have been in the agri business for forty years, and it is a crucial part of the success of the Alturas Group. The farm is our main source of livestock for Alturas Malls, providing consistent and high-quality produce for Bohol, Cebu, and other areas,” said Uy.

Marcela Farms serves the food needs -  hogs, chicken, eggs, prawns, fish, and rice of the province and institutional customers all over the country and abroad.

Alongside local food security, Marcela Farms believes that sustainability through environmental protection is a must.  It supports the Alturas Group’s commitment to sustainable practices and technology.

To reduce its carbon footprint, the company operates the biggest solar farm project in Bohol, with a combined capacity of two megawatts.  The excess power is delivered to the local grid as part of the government’s net metering scheme.

Marcela Farms also has a biomass facility responsible for compacting 100% rice hulls used as solid biofuel for industrial plant boilers and as bedding for poultry breeding sites.

Moreover, its organic fertilizer facility has an operating capacity of at least 350 bags a day, while its rendering facility converts 100% poultry plant waste into protein meal for feeds.

Marcela Farms also had the first certified animal-waste biogas in Southeast Asia in 2012.  Two biogas installations are currently operational -  one supplies 1.5 megawatts for the hog farm, and the other provides methane fuel for plant boilers.

The mill also provided jobs to at least hundred of Boholanos.

The event was attended by Governor Aris Aumentado, former Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assistant secretary and now provincial administrator Aster Caberte, Bishop Abet Uy, Ubay Mayor Constantino Reyes and officials, San Miguel Mayor Ian Uy, Alicia Mayor Cesyl Balahay, Barangay Lomangog Captain Felix Cutamora, Peter Dejaresco, Dr. Bing Lapiz, farmers' groups and suppliers.

Aumentado said that Alturas has become a part of the lives of the Boholanos and through their different businesses across the province, many have benefitted from the comfort they have provided.

"This project will also help us in the pursuit of agricultural development in our province. Through this, we can aim for a higher production of hog and poultry feeds that will make us a prime producer of the said product," said Aumentado.

He also emphasized that for more raw materials in the production of feeds, farmers can avail from the provincial government the necessary asssitance and loans for the purchase of materials like fertilizers, and also the purchase of their harvests through the buyback scheme.

Caberte said it was only Uy who dared to take the challenge to venture on this kind of business. 

Benedicto Atuel, 65,  a farmer from Barangay Bay-ang in Ubay town, shared that he was happy that Marcela Farms is interested to buy their products.

He said they have assurance that they can sell their product in the market.

As survivor of typhoon Odette that destroyed their farmlands last year, he needed support to bounce back.

As the group approaches its 50th anniversary in 2023, AGC brings forward values unique to the brand, anchored on strategic, sustainable progress and in line with its main slogan, "Serving the community, uplifting lives."

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The greatness of CPG

By Leo Udtohan 

Ang lalawigang Bol-anon

May anak nga bantugan

Matarung ug maligdong

Sulundon ug buotan.

Ang iyang mga mithi

Gugma ug kaangayan

Pag- alagad nga hingpit

Sa yuta tang natawhan.

Ug halad ka sa langit

Alang Bol-anon katawhan

Ang mga buhat mong matarung

Kanunay namong gikamingawan

Ang dila mong balaknon

Garbo ning yutang tabunon

Carlos P. Garcia buhi ka sa tanang panahon.

Ikaw mao ang kadasig,

Ikaw mao ang kalagsik,

Ikaw mao ang kahayag,

Sa dalan namong mangitngit.

Among paninguhaun ang pagsunod sa imong mga lakang

Ug ang imong pagtulun-an

Dili namo hikalimtan.

 — Carlos P. Garcia: Bantugang Bol-anon

While singing and humming that song (composed and written by Onecimo “Onie” Oclarit from his Ubilandia album), you and I can further reflect on the greatness of the late Carlos P. Garcia as Bohol celebrated his 126th birth anniversary last Friday, Nov. 4.

As we remember CPG, may we be inspired by his example of prioritizing the interests of the Filipino people.

Meanwhile, the greatness of CPG was remembered after three former governors of Bohol were honored during the commemoration of the 126th birth anniversary of CPG, Bohol’s most illustrious son. 

The posthumous awards were given to Victor De la Serna, Constancio Torralba and David Tirol for their exemplary deeds and contributions to the province. The awards were received by their respective familes.

Dela Serna was appointed officer-in-charge (OIC) governor from March to October in 1987 following the 1986 People Power Revolution. He was the first Boholano bar topnotcher in 1965 and he served as a delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention. 

Torralba, former undersecretary of DPWH under Pres. Corazon C. Aquino, was appointed OIC governor from October to December in 1987.  He was elected governor from 1988 –1992. 

Tirol was elected governor from 1992-1995.

Nov. 4 is a special non-working holiday in the province of Bohol. 

The commemorative program in honor of CPG was attended by CPG scholars and provincial officials led by Gov. Aris Aumentado. He led the flag- raising and wreath laying ceremonies along with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan headed by Vice Gov. Victor Balite, heads of offices, national agencies and civil society organizations at the CPG Park before the program that was held at the provincial Capitol lobby. 

In his message, Aumentado said CPG is a

shining example for the youth. He recalled his own inaugural address to pay tribute to CPG, who he said along with his late father and former Gov. Erico Aumentado whose public service life birthed his own passion and commitment. 

He said his "Abante Bohol, Boholano First," was inspired by the former president’s widely known Filipino First Policy. 

"The History of Bohol" written by Lumin Tirol-Pamaran was also launched during the event. The book provides rich historical account of the province from  pre-Spanish era to the early 1970s.

The event was also attended by Marilou Valmoria-Fudalan, a descendant of CPG. 

CPG, who was born in a small village in Talibon town, became the 4th president of the Republic of the Philippines and the first president of the 1971 Constitutional Convention. He was known for his "First Filipino Policy." 

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Puregold to build branches in Bohol

By Leo Udtohan

Puregold will build its newest branch in Bohol province after its acquisition manager Lalette Alea and her team have a courtesy call to Gov. Aris Aumentado on Monday, Oct. 10, 2022. Photo courtesy of Dave Charles Responte

TAGBILARAN CITY- Puregold, giant retail chain, will soon open its another one-stop shopping convenience store in Bohol province. 

This came after Puregold team headed by its acquisition manager Lalette Alea had a courtesy call to Gov. Aris Aumentado on Monday morning, for the establishment of Puregold in the province.

Alea said they had been interested to open new branches and businesses in the province, however, a viable location was proving to be a problem.

"We're just looking for the perfect location," said Alea that they will open a branch first in Ubay town, at least 124 km from Tagbilaran City.

Ubay is a 1st class municipality with a  population of 81,799 people. As of now, Puregold is considered as the town's biggest investor. 

They are also looking forward for the establishment of another Puregold in Tagbilaran City, Jagna, Talibon, Tubigon, Carmen, Loay and Panglao. 

Alea said that if not for Aumentado they could not do business in the province known as a popular tourist destination. 

"We have the full support of the governor," Alea said.

Aumentado said Puregold's expansion in Bohol will accelerate growth and create employment opportunities and stir the local economy.

Puregold is offering a wide array of goods from groceries, apparel, household accessories and furniture at very affordable prices.

Last month, officials of SM Supermalls met Aumentado for the new construction of a mall that will bring employment opportunities to at least 3,000 Boholanos. 

Aumentado cites First 100 Days accomplishments

By Leo Udtohan

Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado delivers his accomplishments in his First 100 days in office on Friday, Oct. 7, 2022 at the Ceremonial Hall of the New Capitol Building in Tagbilaran City. Contributed photo

TAGBILARAN CITY-  For Gov. Aris Aumentado, "much remains to be done" in attaining his goal for Bohol-  a smart, resilient province advancing climate smart agriculture and sustainable tourism.

In a speech detailing his accomplishments in his First 100 days in office on Friday (Oct. 7) at the Ceremonial Hall of the New Capitol Building, Aumentado assured his supporters that he will be true to his campaign promises.

He shared his administration's ten-point development agenda- jobs and livelihood, peace and order, infrastructure, governance reforms, health and social services, trade and industry, eco-cultural tourism, agriculture, education and heritage and protection of the environment. 

He said when he ran for governor, he took a hard look at the many issues and concerns that beset the people caused by the two years of COVID- 19 pandemic and the onslaught of super typhoon Odette. 

"Our two main economic drivers - agriculture and tourism — suffered greatly. Many of our farmers, fisherfolks, businessmen, frontliners and ordinary workers despaired of their future,"  Aumentado said.

He revealed that even in the gloomy situation, some unscrupulous people in - and even out of -government have managed to advance their own personal interests, resulting to the reported widespread graft and corruption at the Capitol. 

True to his campaign promise to institute good governance, he took steps to rid the Capitol of unscrupulous people who have soiled the good reputation of Boholanos.

"The so-called Ivan who victimized quarry operators, mining permitees, and sand and gravel dealers by collecting 30% kicback, has been removed from the equation," he reported. 

In just three months,  he said the provincial government tripled the collection of quarry permit fees from industry players. And there is now a substantial increase of bidders and a more fair and transparent procurement set-up. 

He also said that for the First 100 days, his administration's biggest move to realize a clean and honest government was the creation of the Office for Governance, Accountability, and Reform (OGAR) that will dig into past and present anomalous transactions. 

"The office is being manned by people of highest integrity and probity who are one with your Governor in the goal of keeping our Capitol corruption-free. It is considered as the first of its kind in the history of local government administration and governance," Aumentado said. 

He also mentioned that to jumpstart the economic recovery, his administration triggered a stimulus by creating and mobilizing the Bohol Economic Recovery Task Force and convened the Bohol Investment Board composed of government and private individuals and organizations whose mission is focused on reviving Bohol's economy under the new normal, and in identifying priority areas and incentive packages for investors. 

He said that he opened Bohol for investors like Ayala group, Robinsons, SM, the Aboitiz group, Puregold, the Pangilinan group, Megaworld and many others to invest in Bohol to give jobs and income generation. 

He also pushed with much vigor the province's tourism industry. He said his administration crafted new and smart strategies to propel what we have started as a booming industry prior to the pandemic. 

The provincial government also fixed the overprice of local tourism services and products through fair and equitable regulation following reports of expensive food being sold to tourists at Virgin Island and other tourist establishments. 

He also boasted an improved tourism package during the Philippine Travel Mart in Manila a week ago, Bohol promoted their 4Fs as new tourism magnets: Food, Fiesta, Fitness, and Faith-based tourism strategies. 

"No, we cannot present Bohol with the same packaging ten, twenty years ago. We have to open new frontiers. We have to innovative, mindful that we have so many unique Boholano ingredients to present more attractive tourist offerings," said who established ties with other countries for possible economic initiatives and cultural exchanges.

He said that globally, Bohol is attracting notice like a rockstar becoming the Philippine's first UNESCO Geopark. Bohol has just been nominated for the UNESCO Global Geopark for its rare geologic monuments, biodiversity, rich cultural heritage and tourism sites, and their being managed in a sustainable and holistic mariner. 

The provincial government entered into a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)  for the maintenance and preservation of the Danajon Double-Barrier Reef, considered to be a world heritage. 

"Much remains to be done. But with your abiding faith in the present leadership coupled with God's help, I know we can do much more and much better in attaining our goal of becoming a smart, resilient province advancing climate smart agriculture and sustainable tourism," Aumentado said. 

The First 100 Days of  Aumentado was attended by Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, board members, municipal mayors and heads of the different departments. 

Aris inducts BMPC board of directors, officers

By Leo Udtohan

Gov. Aris Aumentado inducts BMPC board of directors and officers.

Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado administered the oath of office to the newly-elected members of the board of directors (BOD) and officers of the Bol-anon Multi-Purpose Cooperative (formerly TACECCO) on Thursday night, Sept. 15, at Shang Palace.

The presence of Aumentado manifested a strong sense of support for cooperatives as economic drivers that promote growth and economic viability of local communities. 

He also informed the BMPC cooperators that the provincial government of Bohol is preparing to roll out assistance to interested coops in the province. 

The BMPC chair is Samuel Belderol. 

Others who took their oath before Aumentado were Mardonio Roxas, vice-chair; Jose  Pamaong, Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin, Felito Francisco, and Brenda Sarte as BOD members starting their new term, as well as the newly-appointed officers of the different committees.

It may be remembered that the BMPC is one of the 122 civil society organizations that were awarded  certificates of accreditation by the 15th Sangguniang Panlungsod headed by Vice-Mayor Adam Relson Jala, as part of the initiatives of the City Government to strengthen the CSOs and empower the Tagbilaran City People’s Council (TCPC).

Belderol was also elected treasurer of the TCPC during the meeting at JJ’s Seafoods on Thursday. 

The BMPC is managed by Edita Lapac.

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Most memorable lines from our newsmakers (and why we are moved, if we are moved): 

Social Welfare and Development Secretary Erwin Tulfo on no funds for typhoon Odette victims in Bohol:  "Ito ay walang bolahan. Ang pera na lang po ng DSWD  para sa medical, burial, transportation less than P1 billion na lang." 

Rep. Alexie Besas-Tutor during the organizational meeting of the Committee on Civil Service and Professional Regulation to address injustice and to gradually reduce numbers of contractuals and job order personnel in government: "We need a master plan that addresses this injustice over the next five years. I am hopeful Chairman Karlo Nograles will be up to this challenge."

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

VP Sara Duterte a crowd-magnet as she visits Bohol

By Leo Udtohan 

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte was the honored guest during the 168th Bohol Day last Friday, July 22. 

Her visit was first in Bohol since winning by a landslide in the island province with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  Political analysts and observers said their victories were menaingful and impressive considering that both did not visit Bohol during the campaign period. 

Duterte's last visit to Bohol was in 2019 when she campaigned for some senators and former Cabinet Secretary Jun Evasco Jr. 

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte 

graces the 168th Bohol Day on July 22, 2022. Photos: Ric Obedencio 

Duterte went first to Clarin town to visit the schools ravaged by Typhoon Odette (international name "Rai") last year.

She met with local officials and the Department of Education (DepEd) personnel to talk about the repair, reconstruction, and renovation of classroom buildings destroyed by the typhoon. 

After Clarin, she went to the Bohol Cultural Center for the Bohol Day program where she was treated to the reenactment of  "Sanduguan" (Blood Compact) between  Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Boholano chieftain Datu Sikatuna in March 1565. 

"The last time siguro I was taught about Sandugo was in high school in Philippine History pa. And it's good to be reminded of our history as a country," she told at least 200 crowd of local chief executives and heads of different agencies. 

She urged Boholanos to support the new administration to improve Filipinos’ condition.

“Let us keep one another in friendship, prayer, and pride as we take the next steps of recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. I ask the Boholanos’ support as the new administration makes decisions in our best interest,” she said.

Duterte said that Boholanos were fiercely protective of their place and territory.  She cited the 2017 clashes with members of Abu Sayaff group.

A band of bandits landed on the island on April 10, 2017 from their stronghold in Basilan province on a kidnapping mission, but they were thwarted as alert residents tipped off the authorities on their presence in Inabanga town.

Duterte hoped that Bohol’s collective harmony and faith would overcome challenges and spread across the country.

“Bohol is always a welcoming place, a new home for others, and home of the finest spots in the global lieu, glistening in its continued motivation, culture and tradition and faith. The entire Bohol will blossom, blossom again, blossom more…,” she said.

Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado said, “Boholanos are ruled by a spirit of never dies.”

“Treat a Boholano with respect and kindness, and he will open his humble home for you as a long, long lost brother… And you will enjoy the hospitality of Si Katuna,” said Aumentado

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte signs the "Sara All 2022" hoodie and t-shirt of Hannah Tessa Obedencio and mediaman Cesar Capangangan on July 22, 2022. Photo: Ric Obedencio

After her speech, Duterte went to Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant for an exclusive "meet and greet" with Alyansang Bol-anon Alang sa Kausaban (Abaka) members. 

Duterte was mobbed by excited Abaka members, officials and supporters who wanted to have their autographs signed by the vice president.  She willingly obliged requests for photographs and autographs, but her escorts and security aides whisked her out to the stage for a short program. 

Bohol became a separate politico-military province from Cebu on July 22, 1854.

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

Old, familiar names win in Bohol

By Leo Udtohan

Your VRS with media colleagues Dave Charles Responte of dyTR and Allen Doydora of dyRD as witnesses of the cavassing of results for the province of Bohol with Ms Malou Cempron of the provicial Comelec office. The provincial board of canvassers are lawyer Eddie Aba, chairperson; lawyer Nilo Ahat, vice chairperson and lawyer Edmar Rodela, member-secretary.  Photo: Leo Udtohan

Political families in Bohol province have regained or expanded their political control and influence after the May 9 elections.

The Chatto family has tightened their grip in Balilihan town and on the province’s first congressional district after Rep. Edgar Chatto was reelected. 

The Aumentado family have also expanded their control of politics in the province and the second congressional district.

For the third district, Rep. Alexie Besas-Tutor, was reelected after beating Valencia Mayor Katrina Lim of the powerful Lim family. 

Reelectionist Balilihan Mayor Maria Pureza Veloso-Chatto kept his seat as mayor. Her daughter, lawyer Esther Patricia, was elected vice mayor.  Pureza's husband, incumbent 1st district Rep. Edgar Chatto, a veteran politician, also won with a wide margin against his opponents.  

However, Pureza's brother outgoing Tagbilaran City Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso who was running for mayor was defeated by Jane Yap, becoming the first last mayor of Tagbilaran.

Jane, wife of outgoing Tagbilaran Mayor John Geesnell "Baba" Yap II, also defeated Baba's uncle, former Tagbilaran Mayor Dan Lim. 

Jane's father, former 2nd district Rep. Roberto Cajes was also elected mayor in Trinidad town. Her sister, incumbent councilor Joan Cajes-Imboy was reelected in Trinidad town. 

In Inabanga town, councilor Jose Jono Jumamoy, was elected mayor. His mother incumbent mayor Josephine Socorro Jumamoy was elected vice-mayor. However, Jono's only sister Jaja, a commercial pilot and former provincial board member, lost her bid as representative for Bohol's 2nd district. 

Jaja's rival, Maria Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado, was elected as first woman representative of the second district. 

Winners all. Some Boholano politicians are successful in their electoral bid: Governor-elect Erico Aristotle Aumentado, Vice governor-elect Dionisio Victor Balite, reelected 3rd district Rep. Alexie Besas-Tutor and new 2nd district Rep. Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado.  Photo: Leo Udtohan

Cadorna-Aumentado is the wife of outgoing 2nd district Rep. Erico Aristotle Aumentado who won by landslide against rival Gov. Arthur Yap.  Erico's niece, lawyer Jiselle Rae Villamor, won a seat in the provincial board in the second district. 

The Relampagos clan was weakened by the deafeat of reelectionist Vice Gov. Rene Relampagos, a veteran politician whose career in politics spanned for three decades. He was defeated by board member Dionisio Victor Balite whose younger brother, Dionisio Neil, won as mayor in Valencia town. 

But other clan members kept their posts: 

incumbent Loon mayor Elvi Peter Relampagos and vice mayor Lloyd Peter Lopez were reelected. Elvi is the older brother of Rene, while Lopez is first cousin of Relampagos brothers. 

It is a bittersweet victory for former Bohol Vice Governor Julius Cesar Herrera who was elected mayor in Calape town. His daughter, Margaux Herrera-Caya, a newcomer lost her bid as board member in the first district. 

In Panglao town, incumbent mayor Leonila Paredes-Montero was elected last councilor. Her daughter, incumbent councilor Amira Alia Montero-Caindec, failed to secure the mayoral seat after defeated by newcomer Edgardo "Boy" Arcay. 

In Dauis town, outgoing mayor Marietta Tocmo-Sumaylo was elected vice mayor. However, her husband, Liga ng mga Barangay-Dauis Chapter president Josever Sumaylo, was defeated by a newcomer Roman Bullen, a seaman. 

Bohol 3rd district Rep. Kristine Alexie Besas-Tutor was reelected, while her husband, outgoing Candijay mayor Christopher Tutor was elected vice mayor. 

It was victory for Camacho brothers in Getafe town. Incumbent mayor Casey Shaun Camacho was elected vice-mayor, while his brother former mayor Cary Camacho regained his former position.

In Ubay, incumbent mayor Constantino Reyes was reelected while his wife incumbent councilor Violeta was reelected. 

Former Carmen Mayor Conchita Toribio- Delos Reyes was elected mayor. Delos Reyes' twin sister Angilita Toribio-Abundo failed her reelection bid. 

Outgoing Garcia Hernandez Mayor Tita Baja won as board member  in the third district of Bohol. Her brother, Filadelfo Jess Baja III, won as mayor. 

Newcomer lawyer Jiselle “Jamie” Aumentado Villamor

 is elected board member in the second district of Bohol. Contributed photo

Some are unsuccessful in their electoral bids. 

Reelectionist 2nd district board member Frans Gelaine Garcia-Devenosa was unable to capture a seat in the provincial board, while her husband Michael Devenosa who was running for councilor in Pres. Carlos P. Garcia (PCPG) failed to secure a seat. Her father, former board member Gerardo Garcia, failed in the race for congressman. 

Incumbent Pilar mayor Necitas Tabaranza- Cubrado failed her reelection bid. Her daughter, Vanessa Cubrado, also failed to take a seat in the council. 

Aumentado was welcomed with cheers from Capitol employees who had lined up to meet him. He also visited some offices before his proclamation.

“My inspiration was to bring change to Bohol. Rest assured, I will protect the money of the people. I will not do something that will anger you,” said Aumentado.

Tutor thanked her supporters who stayed behind her during the campaign and the elections. 

"Thank you third district! We have shown around the world that our district is principled, looks at the actions and deeds of its leaders, and has the love and conscience to vote for a good leader,” Tutor said.

“I feel the pressure because I am a neophyte. But I am confident I can bring the services to the second district of Bohol,” Cadorna-Aumentado said.  “I will serve the people with competence, commitment, passion and dedication.”

"Let’s work hand in hand, and bring to the fore quality service and clean governance in Bohol, which the Boholanos truly deserve," said Villamor. 

Bohol with 1.4 million people has 949,791 registered voters. 

* * *

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Dead oarfish found in Panglao sparks fears among locals

The discovery of a dead oarfish floating in the waters off Barangay (Village) Doljo in Panglao town had sparked debates and discussions on social media whether oarfish can predict earthquakes.

According to Lampell Cloma, the dead oarfish was found floating in the sea on Wednesday afternoon in Barangay (Village) Doljo this town.

Cloma, 24, said that around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, a fisherman Gomer Milanes found the oarfish. With the help of another fisherman, they brought the oarfish to the shore.

It was not known how the fish died and how it ended up near the beach. However, according to Cloma, the gills were fresh.

Since their sightings are rare so not much is known about the behavior of the oarfish, residents were worried and afraid when they saw the oarfish.

Stories proliferated linking the earthquake to incidents of oarfish beaching that prefaced a disaster.

“Nakurat ug nahadlok mi pagkakita namo kay naa lagi daw meaning basta mogawas na isdaa (We were terrified because it has meaning when it can be seen on the surface),” said Cloma.

Another resident Marina Guibone knelt on the sand, prayed with fervour, and made the sign of cross when she the oarfish.

“Kuyaw nga tilimad-on (It’s a bad omen),” said Guibone.

Cloma said it was their first time to see an oarfish in the village. 

She said that around 6 p.m., a municipal employee measured the oarfish which was 15 feet.

Oarfish is sea creature living in a deep water and can be rarely spotted in shallow waters.

Some experts believe that the deep-sea creatures living more than 1,000 ft. under the sea are very sensitive when it comes to fault movements and nature activities. They were living in the deep waters so they can easily detect any ground movement.

In Japanese folklore, the oarfish is known as the “Messenger from the Sea God’s Palace” and appears on beaches to predict earthquakes.

An oarfish was found on Feb. 8, two days before the 6.7-magnitude earthquake that hit Surigao City.

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit Bohol province in 2013.

***

3 death penalty votes that surprised us

Our representatives- Rene Relampagos (1st District), Erico Aristotle Aumentado (2nd District), and Arthur Yap (3rd District)- went along with the majority, voting “Yes”.

Only 54 voted “No”, and one abstained for the reintroduction of death penalty up to the final voting on Tuesday.

Yap based his vote on the survey through social media and his district which showed majority of the respondents preferred death penalty.

In a statement, Yap said that it was not a decision lightly reached even as more than a great majority of those polled voted affirmatively for the body of crimes outlined in the original bill.

“It is not that the Third District of Bohol is populated by blood thirsty people. And surely, let it not be said that we love God less. It is just that my District believes that when one commits barbaric acts against our fellow man, such as rape, murder, kidnapping, treason, piracy and more, that perpetrator has also given up his right to live among civilized men and women,”  Yap said in a statement.

“The Government sees the death penalty as the natural consequence of justice paid by a convicted felon for having robbed the lives of others. But this should not mean that the Government must focus on sending as many people to meet this penalty. The Government must instead continue strengthening institutions and programs that deliver basic services that create opportunities for its citizens to live decently and honorably. When income rises and poverty decreases, the scourge of drugs will naturally abate,” Yap said.

Aumentado said he preferred that it would include murder, rape and plunder as originally proposed.

“I was at first inclined to abstain, finally decided to vote “Yes” on the second and the third reading, considering the watered-down version,” he said.

Aumentado said House Speaker Bebot Alvarez assured him that rape, murder and plunder would have their own death penalty bill that will be more specific.

“In totality, I want rape, murder and plunder  to have death as penalty. They are equally as heinous as selling drugs. However, since the measure was cut down to only one punishable act in focus, it helped me to come up with a stand,” he said.

 In a statement, Relampagos said that human rights does not only refer to the rights of the accused but to all citizens.

“I voted yes an affirmation of hope for the future and for a culture of peace. The fact that hundreds of thousand surrendered under the governments drive against drugs show the manifest vastness of our problem against drugs. It is high time that we strengthen our fight against it. If we do not do anything about it, we can just imagine where we will be a few years from now. Hundreds of thousand more?” he said.

He said he voted yes an affirmation of the country’s shared fight drugs.

“You name it, drugs destroys life, liberty and property. It destroys families and communities. It destroys good governance and integrity in the public service. It destroys trust in the Maker of life. I join it the fight against it,” he said.

Tagbilaran resident Bienna Ursula Bautista Cornacchia, 29, had expressed her support for death penalty for drug addicts who committed heinous crimes.

“I am in favor of death penalty for specific crimes such as murder, homicide and, rape, especially those done unto minors and children. And if not, perhaps castration without anesthesia would serve as a good punishment for sex offenders. They should have thought of that. However, for drug-related cases, as long as they have not committed heinous crimes such as rape and murder, they can go to jail for as long as the court decides or have one finger cut to teach them a lesson. Harsher punishment is necessary. Death penalty can be a good punishment for certain crimes but not for all crimes,” said Cornacchia.

Some Boholano Catholics maintain that the death penalty is a violation of the right to life and an unauthorized by human beings of God’s sole lordship over life and death.

“Our Philippine Constitution guarantees our right to life,” said Juanito Niluag, 43.

“The direct and voluntary killing of a human being is always gravely immoral,” he added.

He suggested that the justice system should be improved first before death penalty will be imposed again.

“I was not surprised because Boholano solons have almost always kowtowed to the ruling party. But it's still sad to be proven right this way,” said cultural worker architect Liza Macalandag who is in Netherlands. “Death penalty, which has been proven to stop criminality, is regressive, inhumane and just plain wrong. This Congress has made in humans of us all.”

Bishop Alberto Uy of the Diocese of Tagbilaran said on his Facebook account that imposing death penalty to the offenders could not guarantee that it gives justice and peace to the victims.

In Bohol, the devotion of the people to religion gave rise to numerous old stone churches before it was damaged due to the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit the province in 2013. In Tagbilaran City, tricycles have biblical quotes.

***

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Same faces running in Bohol in 2016; Bohol marks 2nd anniversary of quake

Same faces, familiar surnames and a mix of the old and the new, the hardened and the neophytes, in Bohol politics have thrown their hats into the 2016 ring, filing their certificates of candidacy (COCs) last week.

 

Friday’s deadline of filing of COC drew more and more people seeking posts in the 2016 elections.

 

Provincial Election supervisor lawyer Eliseo Labaria said he was pleased with how the filing, which started on Monday, turned out because orderliness was maintained.

 

As of July 20, Bohol has 757,144 registered voters, said Lourdes Cempron of the provincial Comelec office.

 

Reelectionist Bohol Rep. Erico Aristotle Aumentado
is holding a copy of his certificate of candidacy (COC),
 the first to file in Bohol on Monday with provincial
election officer lawyer Eliseo Labaria and some
mayors. Photo by Leo Udtohan

He urged the public to register before the Oct. 31 deadline.

 

Comelec will release the official list of candidates for next year’s polls on Dec. 10.

 

On Monday, only reelectionist Rep. Erico Aristotle Aumentado was the first candidate in the province to file his COC.  

 

Aumentado, who is running under the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) in the province’s second district, filed his COC at 1:55 p.m. He was accompanied with his wife, Vanessa, mom Greenie, some family members and some mayors and supporters.

 

He said he is seeking re-election to finish some of his projects, including a submarine cable project to bring power to island-barangays and the construction of Ubay Airport which will start in January

 

“We have lots of programs to accomplish,” said Aumentado. 

READ INQUIRER ON AUMENTADO'S FILING OF COC

 

Labaria said he didn’t expect surge of candidates on Monday’s filing of COCs.

 

Reelectionist Rep. Art Yap (2^nd district) says
 he is running to continue his unfinished projects
 that will benefit the barangays. Photo by Leo Udtohan

On Tuesday, Former Agriculture Secretary and Bohol Rep. Art Yap has filed his certificate of candidacy at the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) provincial office here on Tuesday

 

Yap, who is seeking re-election in the province’s third district under the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), was the second candidate who filed his COC at 10:30 a.m.  He was accompanied by his wife, Carolyne Varquez Gow-Yap, some mayors and supporters from the third district.

 

Yap said he is running to continue his unfinished projects.  

 

“Work is not yet done,” Yap said. He also said there are legislations to file as a representative that will benefit the barangays.

READ INQUIRER NEWS ABOUT YAP'S FILING OF COC

 

He also cleared that he has no involvement in the alleged misuse of pork barrel funds amounting to P163.2 million while he was Agriculture secretary during the Arroyo administration. But he is expecting that his possible opponent will use the issue during election campaign.

 

Former Carmen Mayor Che Toribio-Delos Reyes,
Loay Mayor Rose Marie Imboy, Board Member
Dionisio Balite and Godofreda Tirol file their COCs
on Thursday. –Photo by Leo Udtohan

 “They can always do that. That’s politics. It’s not only in the Philippines but all over the world.   The important thing is I don’t have cases at Sandiganbayan. I have a certification from Sandiganbayan that I am not facing a single criminal case. Just don’t listen to it.  The most important is people can see my performance,” he said. 

 

On Thursday, incumbent Loay Mayor Rosemarie Lim-Imboy, former Carmen Mayor Conchita “Che Che” Toribio-Delos Reyes and board members Dionisio Balite and Godofreda Tirol filed their COCs under PDP-Laban. They arrived 11:30 a.m. accompanied by their families, some mayors and supporters.

 

Imboy will run for governor, while her running mate Balite will run for vice governor.   

 

She will run against incumbent Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto, while Balite will run against incumbent Vice Governor Conching Lim.

 

Imboy's daughter Loay councilor Rochelle Brigitte Imboy also filed her COC for mayor, while her husband incumbent board member Brigido Imboy will seek re-election. 

 

Yap, who was uncontested in 2010 and 2013 elections, has found his match. De Los Reyes filed her candidacy for representative in the third district of Bohol.

 

Delos Reyes said she was not afraid to face Yap.

 

“Definitely no,” she said, “I am confident.”

 

Delos Reyes, who runs the international beauty soap “Beauche,” run for governor against Chatto in 2013 but she lost.  Chatto is the currently the provincial LP chairman.

 

Should she win a seat in Congress, Delos Reyes said she would file bills for health, education, livelihood and agriculture.

 

“The reason why I joined is for the poor people. Number one is health. We have poor people who can’t go to hospital because they don’t have money. Second is education. Then livelihood and support to our farmers,” she said.

 

Imboy said that at first she was hesitant to run against Chatto.

 

“It’s really scary, you know he has good track records,” she said. “But upon hearing support and comments from the people that they need a new governor, they need a change, my fear was gone. If God is with us, who can be against us?”

 

On Friday, the last day of the filing, provincial and city Liberal Party’s hopefuls filed their COCs.

 

Before filing their COCs, they attended mass at the St. Joseph Cathedral, joined by their families and fellow LP members.

 

Chatto, the party’s provincial chair, filed his COC along with Rene Relampagos who is seeking reelection of the province’s first district and Vice Governor Lim, their vice gubernational candidate.

 

In Tagbilaran City, reelectionist Mayor John Gesnell Yap filed his COC at the city Comelec Office. Along with Yap were reelectionist Vice Mayor Toto Veloso and their ten councilor aspirants.

 

Aumentado said that he is praying for peaceful elections especially that some of the towns in the second district are considered hot-spots during election time.

 

“We are all aware that there was tension and election related violence in the province, I pray for peaceful and successful general elections in 2016,” he said.

 

Labaria said he was expecting that the next elections is contested in the province. He also said that he will evaluate the critical set-up in the province.

 

“We will do our best that no election relate violence will happen again,” he said.

 

 

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Bohol marks 2^nd anniversary of quake

 

Church bells rang in Bohol for 33 seconds on Tursday to commemorate the second anniversary of the devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake that brought Bohol to its knees.

 

A holy mass was held at the Saint Joseph Cathedral officiated by Tagbilaran Bishop Leonardo Medroso. It was attended by provincial and city officials, mostly from the Liberal Party.

 

Rodel Barace visits the site where four members of his
 family were swallowed by a giant crack. -LPU

After the mass, a photo exhibit was formally opened after the holy mass to demonstrate the post-earthquake recovery.It will run until Oct. 27 at the Bohol Cultural Center

 

But for others, last Thursday’s commemoration was a painful reminder of loved ones lost.

 

Those loved ones who were killed by the quake; they grieved and remembered the people who passed away.

 

“We will always remember them in our hearts,” said Rodel Barace of Antequera who lost four members of his family who were swallowed by a giant crack in Antequera.

 

The Barace family visited the cemetery and brought flowers and offered prayers.

READ INQUIRER ON THE 2ND YEAR COMMEMORATION OF THE BOHOL EARTHQUAKE

 

Booy Barangay Kagawad also visited the cemetery to offer prayers to his mother Linda who died during the quake due to myocardial infarction aggravated by the quake.

 

“My heart breaks for anyone who loses their mom,” said Lofranco.  He also said that her mother was also his best friend.

 

Linda was the former top-seller Individual Group Supervisor of Tupperware  Brand – Bohol  (formerly Saralee Direct Selling).

 

“I thank you God for giving me the most priceless of all treasures, help my Lord to keep alive her memory here forever,” said Clement.