626 families evacuated in Bohol

By Leo Udtohan

TAGBILARAN CITY- At least 626 families or 788 individuals in Bohol province were evacuated due to nonstop moderate to heavy rains due to low pressure area and sheer line. 

In a situational report from the  Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) at 2 p.m. Thursday, it reported 626 families composed of 788 individuals who were evacuated from at least 18 towns. 

The evacuees were brought to the temporary shelters or centers. 

In Clarin, there were 40 families evacuated in Barangay Bonbon, 45 families in Barangay Nahawan and 61 families in 

Poblacion Norte.

There were 146 families in Jagna, 74 families in Barangay Valladolid in 

Loboc town where the river was at critical level on Thursday morning. 

There were15 families evacuated in Barangay Estaca in Pilar town. 

At least 38 families evacuated in Inabanga town, 23 families in Dagohoy town. 

In Lila town, four families in Barangay Poblacion, 15 families in Barangay Calvario. 

Gov. Aris Aumentado distributed relief goods to the affected families. 

Bohol has been on red alert status since Wednesday due to bad weather.

### 

Photo caption:

The Loboc River  after the water slowly subsides on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023 after 74 families were evacuated.  Photo courtesy of Mayor Raymond Jala.

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. 

Strange stories on Holy Week

Urban legends that surround Holy Week refuse to die.  In fact, social media seems to have given them a new lease of life.

-Sigbin, a mythical creature that usually appears during the Holy Week. It looks like a kangaroo or a hornless goat with big ears that flap when excited or mad. Sigbins usually like to feast on charcoal. In the absence of charcoal, Sigbins target young children with fresh and clean blood. Sigbins do not physically attack their victims, they just sip their victim’s blood.

-A female vampire who was an OFW is terrorizing the Visayas area. After returning home, she started to crave for human flesh. Known as Maria Labo, she has the ability to change her appearance.

-Some children are abducted or bred for sacrifices days before the Holy Week.  A white van and men in bonnets kidnap children, take out their organs and sell them to people needing organ transplants.

However, last week’s occurrence in Jagna town was so strange that experts have struggled to explain the situation.

Some stories blur the lines between science, spirituality and the supernatural.

At least 10 high school students of Jagna High School in Barangay Bunga Mar were allegedly possessed by evil spirits on Monday morning.

Justino Cesar Arban, a grade 11 teacher, said that some Grade 10 students screamed and fainted inside their classrooms. He said they spoke strange language and displayed freakish strength while being "possessed."

A palpable chill settled over the school that the teachers and students were praying to ward off evil spirits.

Arban, who led the class praying the Holy Rosary to ward off evil spirits, said one of his students chilled and began shouting when they were reciting the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary.

The students were so scared that the school decided to send the students home.   However, the hysteria spread to four more students on Tuesday. Some of the students got angry when rosaries were hung around their necks.

The school decided to suspend classes on Wednesday and a Holy Mass was held at 9 a.m. at the school ground officiated by Msgr. Orencio Jubac, resident priest of St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church and Fr.  Tereso Lumacang, assistant priest.  It was attended by the teachers, parents, alleged victims and lay people.  

During the Holy Mass, five students were reportedly fainting and having strong muscular convulsions.  They were also speaking in tongues.

Speaking in tongues or glossolalia is a phenomenon in which people appear to speak in languages unknown to them. 

Lumacang said he could not conclude yet if what occurred in the school was a genuine demonic possession. He urged the parents and the community to pray for the children.

At 3 p.m. on Wednesday, the students were brought to St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church for “casting and deliverance.”

According to Jagna Councilor Anthony Aniscal, a village faith healer identified only as Lando told the teachers that the students drew the ire of spirits inhabiting an old kalachuchi tree near the school’s entrance.

The area around the tree has been used as a dump site for the school’s trash. Lando told teachers that the spirits would try to possess all of the school’s students unless the area is cleaned.

A student went to the comfort room near the kalachuchi tree and saw a child before the alleged possession occurred.  The child asked her to buy a candy, but the student chilled and was shouting when the child’s face turned bloody.

Prior to the incident, senior high school students attended a two-day Youth Camp organized by Couples for Christ (CFC)-Bohol last March 10 and 11 at Jagna Central Elem. School.

School principal Christopher Aclan, who refused to talk to reporters, asked his teacher to tell Bohol reporters not to report the incident.

In 2016, 41 female students at the Japer Memorial School in Barangay Catalina in Sagbayan town went into convulsions, screamed and fainted inside their classrooms. Residents believed the hysteria started after a gmelina tree inside the school was cut down. A week after, 22 female students of the San Pascual Academy (SPA) in Barangay San Pascual, Ubay town, exhibited similar behavior believed to be possession.

When I was young, I had witnessed two demonic possessions.  Two of our female neighbors were possessed by evil spirits on different occasions.  As the priests began to pray, the woman slipped into a trance. She spoke in multiple voices-deep, guttural and masculine. When someone secretly sprinkled ordinary water on her, she didn't react. But when holy water was used, she screamed in pain. It took weeks for these women to be completely delivered from evil spirits.

Doctors used to be widely skeptical and they argued that there's no empirical evidence that proves possession is real.

Belief in possession exists in many religious traditions. Some people believe that possession is rare, but real. However, only a trained exorcist could tell if someone is possessed.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church speaks to the importance of knowing the difference between mental illness and demonic actions. It said, “The exorcism is directed at the expulsion of demons or to the liberation from demonic possession through the spiritual authority which Jesus entrusted to his Church. Illness, especially psychological illness, is a very different matter; treating this is the concern of medical science. Therefore, before an exorcism is performed, it is important to ascertain that one is dealing with the presence of the Evil One, and not an illness.”

According to Jerome Magallen, a Bohol-based psychologist, many cultures still believe that seemingly unprovoked acts of hysteria are caused by spirit possession. He said apart from spiritual modes of therapy, those exhibiting odd behavior should seek medical help.  

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

Round Bohol

Bohol is our native land. Capital city is Tagbilaran. My hometown is Calape, four towns before Getafe. Tubigon, Clarin, Inabanga, Loay, Lila, Anda, Valencia, Loboc, Bilar, Sikatuna, Duero, Jagna, Antequera.  Carmen, Sierra-Bullones, Albur, Garcia Hernandez,  Talibon, Trinidad, Loon, Cortes, Baclayon, Panglao,  and Dauis. Maribojoc , Candijay, Ubay, Batuan, Mabini, Corella, Dimiao, Sagbayan,  Balilihan, Sevilla, Dagohoy, Catigbian. Danao, Pilar, San Isidro, San Miguel ug Buenavista, nadugang ang Bien Unido ug President Garcia. 48 ka mga lungsod ning lalawigan sa Bol-anon muhimo ka mulibot kung ikaw mo-excursion...

— “Round Bohol Rock,” by  Yoyoy Villame

A new (funny) version of “Round Bohol” is circulating in the social media.  I chanced upon it last night, and well, it's kind of a delayed reaction, but still, I find it amusing.

ROUND BOHOL Tahh

Hindi dito, hindi diyan, LOON!

Hindi superman,hindi batman,  GUINDULMAN!

Not three,Not two, BATUAN.

Ug matulog ka, ayaw pag-LOAY.

Land of KPOP, South CORELLA.

It's always nice TUBIGON the day with a smile.

Sunod sa Pangako sa'yo, ANDA wings of love.

Para sa pamilya, Para sa ekonomiya, Para SAGBAYAN.

Nakaligo ka na ba sa dagat ng basura? Nagpasko ka na ba sa gitna ng kalsada? Manny BILAR.

Tongue Twister.  I wish to wish DAUIS you wish to wish, but if you wish to wish DAUIS the witch wishes, I won't wish DAUIS you wish to wish.

Kaon ug tarong para sa maayong PANGLAO-was!

Grizzly bear, Snow bear, PILAR bear

Move on na ko, ALBUR-ry all the bad memories.

Ug manglaba ka,ayaw butangig CLARIN ang dekolor kay magputi-puti

UBAY myself......don't wanna live....UBAY myself anymore

You and I.........CARMEN to be.

MABINI-bini sa aking pagtulog...

Dili sakyon kay among BACLAYON.

Son,is it true? Answer me!!  SAN, ISIDRO? Is it true?

Ang basketball, sa basketbolan, Ang tennis, sa tennisan, Ang billiards, SEVILLAran

Dili na kaya ang engineering, Mao tong mi-VALENCIA ug kurso.

Dili na kiss, JAGNA.

Lingaw diri. Naay CORTES ug kaon. Naay CORTES ug dagan. Singing CORTES, dance CORTES

Sa wala pay rice cooker, Naa nay kal-DUERO

What's chikchik mama? BIEN UNIDO fortified.

Tagay diri, inom didto, SAN MIGUEL.

TALIBON kung lumipad,sumabay sa hangin,ako'y napatingin....

Under my umbrella, ella..LILA eh eh.

Unsay tingog sa iring? Eh DIMIAO.

Do you know how? I DANAO.

Libro sa nag-take up ug Law, LOBOC.

Aalis din ako dahil aALICIA.

Napyansahan na ka. You are PITOGO.

SIERRA BULLONES nang tayoy nagkakilala. Martes nang tayoy muling nagkita

Abi kog ""I can't"" ,"" i CAN""DIJAY.

Habulin ng babae,araw man o gabi...DAGOHOY hoy hoy hoy, hoy hoy hoy hoy,

Sige ug dagan, TAGBILA-RUN.

Dili na Christmas tree ni Mom, Kay Christmas TRI NI DAD na.

Bakit CALAPE-t nang lapit sa akin?

Naunsa to? INABANGA ang bus sa kahoy.

Ang araw ay siSIKATUNA sa silangan at lulubog pagkatapos sa kanluran.

Sige man kag tabi ug storya sa tapad ,grabiha CATIGBIAN-na gyud nmo.

We will have an exam. GETAFE-ce of paper!

Abi kog ang tuko, AN TEQUE RA man diay.

I want to ""MARIBOJOC"".Di masabtan? I want her to be my wife.I want to ""Mary hair"".

Lumipas na ang isang taon at isang BUENA VISTA-basta ka na lang nagbago at naglaho.

suGARCIA.....HERNANDEZ,  Won't you come and put it down on me.

Mutya ka BALILIHAN katahom. Tinggas pa sa puti nga baybayon. Gugma ko BALILI HANdumon. Puro kaw Baliling sa katahom"

***

Speaking of Bohol, Juan Lumacang III shares his article for us to ponder. Here it is:

Bohol’s Danger Ahead

(An Open Letter to DENR and Bohol Media Practitioners)

Bohol is a home to many natural wonders, a truly God-given gift to the province and its people. We are known to be protectors and stewards of the environment, espoused thereafter the passage of the Environmental code, a first of its kind in the entire country.

How soon can we realize that the present conditions of the province are not pleasing and favorable to the inhabitants- the brave and hospitable Boholanos?

I am appalled and shocked upon seeing the photos below. These photos are recent pictures of Bohol Limestone Corporation in Garcia Hernandez, Bohol. I am no expert of this, but as a concerned Boholano who has great admiration of the God-given gifts in the province, it made me question the legality of this mining.

I am aware that the present administration under President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has a crusade against mining firms and corporations that had brought devastation to the environment. It was started during the tenure of the former DENR Sec. Gina Lopez. They called a halt on the operations on those firms that violated the mining law. Technically, they cancelled the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) which compels the mining firms to suspend their operations. On this premise, I thought the Bohol Limestone Corporation in Garcia Hernandez, Bohol was made to suspend theirs too.

 The once beautiful mountains of the Garcia Hernandez, source of water and life in the locality, are now flattened into an almost airport-size mining field. What benefits have it brought to the municipality and its people? I sure do know these benefits if there is any, are just a day-long benefits, not a long-term and sustainable one. We must not be blinded.

These past months, I browsed over the internet about recent developments in the province. I read the news and some blogs pertaining to Bohol’s progress. I must say, we are in the right track towards development. But never in a glance I saw these issues to surmise. Media Practitioners are mum about it. I don’t know if it is intentional, I hope not. Thus, I took to the leverage to air this out through social media. Let us see where this leads us.

A portion of the Provincial Government’s Vision states “Bohol is a prime eco-cultural tourist destination with sound environmental condition…”. These words should reverberate in every Boholano including gov’t agencies to forward our goals in keeping a sound environmental condition in the Province. Clearly, the mining in Garcia Hernandez deviates from our common vision for Bohol. Do we need to witness a tremendous devastation before we act? I think not. This is not the time for a wait-and-see system. We all want a safe and sound environment to live in.

 I call upon the DENR through Sec. Roy Cimatu and other concern agencies to look into the situation. It is incumbent upon you to call a halt on the operation of this firm. While this may bring a little good to the people, the destruction will haunt us down in the future. If this firm does not conform to the enabling laws and other regulations, their operation should be stop. We can’t afford a mud flood to come to our province. We are still recuperating from the great havoc brought by the 7.2 earthquake four years ago.

We can’t afford to be derailed once again towards our goals for a better future. Hand in hand we determine the future of our beloved province of Bohol. Together let us not allow that our children be robbed of their future, their wonderful environment, the place we call home. This is ours, we must protect it.

***

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

Inabanga’s Raffia Festival to keep tradition alive

Wake-uppers:

Scene: There were tears, loud cheers and embraces as Lloyd Lancer Gonzaga, the man accused of the murder of environmental lawyer Mia Mascariñas-Green, was arrested on Friday afternoon.   "I'm happy they made an arrest, it is a welcomed news to all of us who are seeking justice for her death," said Pat Ruiz, one of the convenors of the “Justice for Atty. Mia Kalinaw sa Bohol Movement, in an interview Saturday.  "However, our attention now be focused on how justice will finally be rendered to her death."   Amor Maria Vistal, a friend of Green, posted the Facebook, “God is good. God heard our prayers.”

Scene: Provincial Board Member Niño Rey Boniel on Thursday pleaded not guilty to charges of kidnapping and detaining the best friend of his wife on the night he allegedly took and killed Bien Unido Mayor Gisela Boniel.

Seen: One of the candidates in Miss Bohol 2017 is always late. “She has the potential to get the crown. But of course, she has an attitude problem,” said a beauty pageant expert VRS.  “While other girls were having fun during the many activities, she missed it,” added VRS.    

***

The news about a funeral wreath left at the town’s cemetery scared many residents days before the Inabanga town would celebrate its fiesta on June 30.

Inabanga Mayor Josephine Jumamoy
spearheads the Raffia Festival. Courtesy: Ric Obedencio

The “fake news” about a possible bombing on the town fiesta also circulated in text messages and social media worried some residents to go home to celebrate the feast of St. Paul.

“That’s not true,” said Mayor Josephine Socorro Jumamoy on the “fake news” reported.

“Dili nata anang news nga dili tinuod. Let’s try to live a normal life. Let us try to be an instrument nga atong lungsod and province nga maglinawon. Let us do our share,” she said.

To prove that there was no threat, the town held the Raffia Festival Streetdancing on Friday afternoon as part of the town's fiesta.  It was participated in by 10 contingents clustered from the 50 barangays.

The dancers dressed in colorful costumes and props spread cheers.  They also proudly showcased raffia products during the street-dance competition.

Since, Inabanga town just launched the the public free WiFi hotspots, residents flooded Twitter and the social media with hashtag #IloveINB during the event.

Raffia, a natural fiber obtained from "buri" palm, is one of Bohol's leading showcases of its hand woven industry.

The festival aimed to enliven the raffia loomweaving industry which was affected by the 7.2 magnitude earthquake and the infiltration of the Abu Sayyaf members on April 10.

The dancers proudly display raffia strips, locally 

called hulahula, during the Raffia Festival in

 Inabanga, Bohol province.  Courtesy: Ric Obedencio

Some of the weavers lost enthusiasm and interest to continue weaving due to the impact of the quake.  Eventually, the basket industry declined.

“Nahinay, nahilum.  Naapektuhan gyud.  So karun,  sugod ta, atong banhawun,” said Jumamoy.

Jumamoy said there were more than 1,000 individuals who were engaged in home-based raffia loom-weaving  spa in the 50 barangays of the municipality.

Now, at least 500 plant-based weavers are still making raffia.

Before the earthquake, Jumamoy said Inabanga’s raffia-based crafts have gained momentum and are now recognized worldwide.

She said a room at The White House was decorated with raffia.  She also said actress Angelina Jolie was also seen carrying a bag made of raffia designed from Inabanga.

“Raffia in Inabanga is 100 percent hand woven. That’s the beauty, it’s natural,” she said.

Some dancers and members of the Bohol media

 at the media wall inside the Inabanga gymnasium. 

Contributed Photo

Raffia fiber is stripped from dried young buri palm leaves, some dyed, others in their natural colors and woven by hand or modern looms.

Jumamoy said that loom weaving has been the most important cottage industry in Inabanga since Hispanic times.

She said during the Dagohoy uprising, woven cloths were made into uniforms for resistance fighters.

Through the years the weaving industry evolved and were sold locally as well as abroad.

Jumamoy said next year’s festival will be bigger and brighter. 

Slowly, the Inabanga weavers could feel the urge to keep the tradition alive and to move on despite the tragedy that struck them and their town.

***

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

When love falls apart

Captain Gisela Bendong-Boniel was making waves as the first female pilot of a budget airline.

Mayor Niño Rey Boniel of Bien Unido was making a mark, not just as one of the youngest chief executives in Bohol but for improving his town's classification from 5th class to 4th class.

When they got married in 2015, their constituents thought it was a union made in heaven. They elected Gisela as mayor in 2016 to replace her husband who also won as 2nd district board member.

On the outside, everything looked well between the couple. But on Thursday, the residents were shocked with the news that the body of their mayor was thrown into the sea after she was killed by her husband.

Danilo Salabe, 40, said he didn’t expect that tragedy would fall on their favorite couple.

“We were sad when we heard the news,” said Danilo, who is managing the Dive Camp.

Happier times. Board member Niño Rey Boniel with his

 wife Mayor Gisela Bendong-Boniel. File Photo/Nestor Daarol

Another resident, Eisen Avenido, 51, described the couple as “good people.”

“Mayor Giselle is very close to the people, especially the senior citizens. She is a pilot, young, pretty and on top of it, a mayor,” he added.

Gay Mabanag-Delima, 36, councilor of Barangay Poblacion in Bien Unido said the news about the Boniel couple left them in a state of shock.

“How I wish they will not be able to find her body so there is still a chance that she is alive,” she said.

Gisela, 40 and a native of Iligan City, had made history in the male-dominated aviation industry as the first female pilot of AirAsia Philippines with a rank of captain.

Her high school friends said that she had always been fascinated by planes since she was a little girl. In turning her dream into a reality, she inspired other women to take courage in pursuing their aspirations.

On Feb. 28, 2016, she received a commendation for outstanding airmanship after she steered an AirAsia plane to safety at Mactan Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City even if the plane only had one working engine.

Niño also made his own mark in his town in Bien Unido, about 108 km from the capital Tagbilaran City.

Although he is from Bohol, he studied in Cebu and a product of the University of San Carlos where he studied from elementary to college. He finished Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and later took up Law while running his businesses. But he dropped out in his second year in law school because of his work.

Aside from an insurance firm, Niño owned Diamond Trading that imports vehicles from Japan and a restaurant in SM City. He was a also a Director of ABN Dreamworks Corporation. Niño returned to Bien Unido to  follow the footsteps of his father  Cosme who became a town mayor in 1980s.

Bohol Board member Niño Rey Boniel  

At 29, he was elected mayor in 2007 election and was the second youngest chief executive in Bohol's history.

During his term, he elevated Bien Unido’s economic status from 5th to 4th class town. He also tried to put the town in the tourism map by joining the Sinulog Grand Parade in Cebu and the Sandugo Festival in Bohol.

He also put up the Dive Camp, an accommodation to bring in tourists and divers who wanted to experience the Bien Unido Double Barrier Reef.

The Danajon Reef is the only documented double barrier reef in the Philippines and reportedly, one of only six in the entire world. Niño also improved the water system and infrastructure, while addressing the other concerns such as health and sanitation, livelihood and peace and order.

Niño was also instrumental in curbing illegal fishing in the coastal municipality. He put up underwater grotto near the coral reefs of the Danajon Double Barrier Reef consisting of 14-foot tall statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Sto. Niño (the Child Jesus).

 “Illegal fishers will be scared when they see these images,” he told the reporters during the launching several years ago.

Since the mayor was a bachelor, his constituents were curious if he would settle down and with whom since he was seen with several women. Most of his ex-girlfriends were older than him.

In 2010, Niño introduced Gisela to his friends. Five years later, the two got married. They have a three-year-old son.

 The Boniel couple had a promising political career especially that they looked good together and had good credentials, said a local official who asked not be named.

Bien Unido Mayor Gisela Bendong-Boniel

Indeed, Gisela won over the hearts of the residents of Bien Unido when she ran for mayor in 2016. She had grand plans for the town that remained underdeveloped and unfrequented by tourists unlike other towns in Bohol.

When she was sworn into office last year, Gisela said her priorities would be to bring in tourists as well as provide health services, education and livelihood to her constituents.

Since she was criticized by her lack of experience in public service, Gisela took a crash course in local governance at the National College of Public Administration and Governance in Quezon City.

Although Niño and Gisela were seen together in public functions, their marriage started to rock in December last year when Gisela was attacked on Facebook by her husband's political opponents and was dragged into controversies involving her husband.

Financial problems also took a toll on her marriage after Gisela took out a big loan to finance a watch business and to buy a watch worth P2.5 million. Niño reportedly got angry because Gisela could not pay off her debts. But some close friends of the couple told the Inquirer that what infuriated Niño was Gisela's move to file a petition for annulment.

“She discovered that her husband used her for his political advancement,” said another friend.

Friends of Gisela have taken to social media to express their sadness over her reported death.

Loraine Anne Marie Baguio, a flight attendant at AirAsia Philippines, posted on Facebook: “I still can’t believe this news. Really?? A very reputable woman pilot was killed by her husband?? Rest in peace Capt Gisel. I am deeply hurt right now and I know the Air Asia family is also sad by this sudden news. May justice prevail in your death. My condolences to the Biel family.”

One of her friends, Grace, posted her photos with Gisela on her Facebook account. The caption read: “Giselle I am going to miss you more than words can say.”

“I can’t believe such a beautiful soul is gone so soon,” she said.

Rep. Erico Aristotle Aumentado of Bohol’s second district said that he was saddened by the tragic events involving the couple who was close to him.

“We all have our own marital problems which we try to solve in a discreet and private manner. I understand that lives of politicians take so much of one’s time from the family. This sometimes breaks down the closeness of siblings,” Aumentado said.

“While I wish to understand their situation, we also have laws to obey. Let justice move,” he added.

Bohol Gov. Edgar M. Chatto said they did not know that the couple had problems.

“Board Member Boniel deserves due process as he is brought to the bar of justice,” he said in a statement.

***

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

Blazing Bohol!

Bohol's charm lies on its culture, heritage and rich natural resources.

Miles of white sand beaches and pristine waters can be found on Panglao Island composed of Panglao ang Dauis towns.

The hills are alive...

There are several beach resorts there that can provide accommodation and water sports activities such as jetskis, parasailing, among others depending on the budget.

One attraction that is a must is the recently discovered school of sardines in Panglao.

The sardines, locally known as “malangsi,” arrived in the waters off Barangay Tangnan in Panglao and stayed there for good. They are also attracting bigger species of fish like thresher sharks and mackerel.

“Sardines are always migrating but they’ve been in Panglao for some time. Biologists couldn’t explain why but our member marine biologist said it’s probably because of climate change,” Ian Uy, a member of the Dive Ta Bai group, who discovered the shoals of sardines two summers ago.

City of Friendship

The sardine have formed a shoal that could easily number to tens of thousands, even up to a hundred thousand, a delight to those who love to dive and snorkel.

There are some islands to visit in case the tourists are up for some island hopping.

The favorite sites are the Balicasag, Virgin and Pamilacan islands because they are close to Panglao Island.

Balicasag Island, which retains its laid-back charm, is a known dive and snorkel destination because of its marvelous coral reefs formation and spectacular drop-off (underwater wall) up to a depth of 60 meters.

Virgin island is an uninhabited islet where you can enjoy a long string of white beach. Kilometers of white beach emerge during low tide but disappears on high tide.

Pods of dolphins can be seen in the waters off Pamilacan Island which also hosts a Spanish watchtower and fish sanctuary.

Man-made forest

Other places where one can enjoy the underwater world are Cabilao Island in Loon, Bien Unido, Anda and President Carlos P. Garcia Island (Pitogo Island).

In the afternoon, one place to try out is the Extreme Adventure Tour (E.A.T) at the Danao Adventure Park in Danao town.

It hosts a variety of activists that get the adrenalin pumping.

These include a zipline, ATV, rock climbing and caving. For water adventures, the park also offers river kayaking and river trekking near the Danao Adventure Park is the “Sea of Clouds.”

For an entrance fee of P15, visitors can go up to Laguna Mountain in Barangay Concepcion and savor the jaw-dropping vista –fogs that look like clouds hovering the mountains.

“It was one of the most beautiful natural sceneries that we can enjoy,” said Ken Reignald Rara, a resident of Tagbilaran City.

Sevilla's hanging bridge

One of the better vantage points from which to enjoy the spectacle is at the nearby Dagohoy town. An entrance fee of P10 will give you the best view of the sea of clouds located in Sitio Puntaas, Barangay La Esperanza.

“Seeing fog amid the backdrop of nature makes the scenery seem like a work of art,” said Rex Simbajon Pizaña, 38, a resident of Dagohoy town.

A habal-habal (motorcycle for rent)can take the tourist to the area from the town proper.

There are still several areas to visit in Bohol like the watch tower located in Maribojoc town, the Inang-angan stairway in Loon town which is made of five flights with 212 steps, the lying foxes on Cagban Island in Tubigon; and the St. Nicholas Tolentino Church and the Ermita Ruins (a wall of tombs in a honeycomb-like arrangement) in Dimaiao.

But to go to these places would require another day in Bohol.

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Best things to do in summer in Bohol

Ah, sweet summer, you’ve arrived! With summer already breathing warmth and excitement throughout the country, VRS pooled together our most feel-good summer pastimes— it's time to do something new and possibly productive this summer the next time you are bored!

1.Do one touristy thing in your city/town that you’ve never done before.

2.Turn off your phone and go read in a park.

The Can-uba Marble Beach in Jagna town

 is a public beach and blessed with a long stretch 

of pebbles and cool blue waters. Leo Udtohan

3.Ice cream No. 1 after lunch at The Bohol Bee Farm/The Buzzz.

4.Ice cream No. 2 after dinner at Cresencia Cafe.

5.Take photographs in nature.

6.Stargaze — after all there’s a whole universe out there.

7. Learn to cook new recipes for family and friends.

8.Go fishing. Go camping.

9. Take your dog for a walk.

10. Fly a kite.

11.Collect seashells.

12. Eat a slice of watermelon. Sweet melons can be found in Lila and Dimiao towns this summer.  Make sure you get of these tropical fruits— sineguelas (Spanish plum), bayabas (guava), lomboy (black/java plum), avocado and kaimito (star apple)- —abundant this season and find out that indulging in these fresh and delicious treats will bring you good health.

13.  Pack a picnic.

14. Visit the library. Read wonderful books and learn about the world around you. Library time is active, not passive.

15. Visit the museum. There is no doubt that a primary role of museums is to engage and educate the community. The Bohol Museum will make you smarter!

16. Learn how to drive. Obey traffic rules and drive safely.

The Malingin Falls in the village of Patrocinio in 

Cortes town is one place to explore as the province 

gains a boundless energy this summer. Leo Udtohan

17. Take a road trip to the nearest beaches, springs and waterfalls.  Enjoy the captivating beaches of Jagna, Loon, Calape and Anda. We have many cold springs and cascades in Antequera, Cortes, Dimiao, Lila, Bilar and Sierra-Bullones.

18. Look for old family and high school photos and share them on Facebook.

19. Plant a tree in your community. Do some charity works. Check the Gov. Celestino Gallares Regional Hospital  or visit the Philippine National Red Cross-Bohol chapter if you want to volunteer.

20. Sound trip! Listen to your parents favorite songs—Born Free, My Way,  Downtown and Tennessee Waltz. Nice to go down memory lane every now and then!

21. Clean your room!

22. Be healthy! Stop smoking, sleep on time, observe a no-fat diet, go for a walk or jog or a run, take vitamins and drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

23. Always remember two things in life: Don't take any decisions when you are angry and don't make any promises when you are happy.

24. Pay your debts!

25. Make it a Sunday habit to read VRS.

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Anda’s creative Christmas trees

Some towns are just more creative than others.  In Anda town, Christmas trees were created with discarded trash and indigenous materials.

An array of skillfully crafted Christmas trees made from waste materials are now beautifully displayed at the town plaza and continue to surprise a lot of viewers.

The giant Christmas tree in front of the town hall. 

-Leo Udtohan

The Christmas trees are entries to this year’s contest where Mayor Angelina Simacio once more enjoined every village of the town to conceptualize a recyclable material-inspired Christmas tree.

Christmas trees have been a part of the Christmas tradition for centuries.

With the theme “Pasko sa Anda”, the contest aims to enhance Solid Waste Management awareness, creativity and teamwork among barangay folk and to strengthen the 3 R’s (recycle, reduce and reuse) while advocating for 100 percent segregation of solid waste.

Arvin Rubillos, private secretary to the mayor, said the recyclable waste material-inspired Christmas trees would resemble the Filipino value of frugality and the ability of the people to generate ideas.

The Christmas trees are also great symbol of peace and harmony among  the people of Anda, said Barangay Katipunan kagawad  Rouvien De Guzman.

“Anda is now a popular Christmas destination here in our province because we have different kinds of Christmas trees made from recycled and indigenous materials,” said De Guzman. “I’m inviting everyone to visit our town, mag-Anda, it’s a beautiful Anda.”

The creative and clever Christmas trees made from 

recycled and indigenous materials in Anda town, Bohol. –

  Leo Udtohan/Bohol Chronicle

A giant Christmas tree in front of the town hall was made entirely of recycled materials- including the coconut stalks.  Atop the Christmas tree is a star that looks like a Philippine flag. Christmas lights and other glitters were added to make the tree more eye-catching. This Christmas tree is both environmentally friendly and clever. In fact, it looks pretty cool.

At the town plaza, Christmas trees were made from bamboo, fans, dry sticks, packaging boxes and plastic bottles.

In Guindulman town, the green Christmas tree was made from recycled plastic bottles.  The tree is proudly on display in front of the municipal building.

The Tagbilaran City Hall is making for a blue festive Christmas. Residents can enjoy the different tourist attractions in the world. The giant Christmas tree comes wrapped up in shades blue and sparkles.

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Some Christmas trees have angels.  They seem to sing a little louder at this time of the year, glinting gently from atop Christmas trees and celebrated in song.

AR De La Serna during the final rehearsal of the

 first Mister Supranational in Poland.  

Courtesy: Mister Supranational Photo

The angels have a lot to say about Christmas, and, Biblically speaking, we learn the significance of Jesus’ birth.

The term angel literally means “messenger,” and it is in this prominent role that angels take part in the Christmas story.  Understandably, images of angels have become a familiar symbol of Christmas.  Their role in the Christmas drama has been practically immortalized by hymnists. Think of the hymns we’ll be singing at this time of year:  Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, While Shepherds Watched their Flocks, The First Noel, et al.

“Angels” often take human form. Case in point: Glorivic Yap-De la Serna’s experience in Europe.

It is, indeed, a mother's ultimate joy to see her child succeed in all endeavors, so when her son AR, won the much-coveted title of Mr. Supranational Philippines 2016, it was a family blessing beyond compare, a testament of how she raised him. Not only that he has given much pride and joy to the family, but to the people of  Bohol,  a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him to represent the province, as well as the Philippines in a prestigious international competition.

And so, after all the twists and turns and other ingredients (action, drama, suspense, etc), she made it to Poland.

Glorivic Yap-De La Serna with her son, AR, 

who is the first Filipino to compete

 in the Mister Supranational.  Contributed Photo

Glorivic, the head of the Bayanihan Coordinating Unit of the provincial government of Bohol, arrived in Poland on Friday after an exhausting 23-hour trip to support her son, AR, who is competing for the first Mister Supranational.

Traveling alone, she met strangers who helped her to reach Krynica Zdrój, Nowy Sącz, where the pageant was held.

“When I thought that I was at a loss and no help is coming.. A good Samaritan came my way,” she said.

There were little girls who offered coffee (it’s freezing cold in Poland) and hugged her.

“Lots of people to thank for,” she said. “I believe in angels.”

Remember do not forget  to show hospitality to strangers, because some who have done this have welcomed angels without knowing it .-Hebrews 13:2

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‘Pinoy Aquaman’ completes historic swim in Pamilacan

Wake-uppers:

Seen: Spotted in Bohol last Friday was former Ilocos Norte Governor Chavit Singson. According to VRS, Singson visited Anda town for a possible business venture.

Scene:  Feng shui experts encourage everyone to throw away all the old stuff in our house to make room for new blessings for the Chinese New Year (Feb. 8). They also recommend wearing red to attract luck and fortune.

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'Pinoy Aquaman’ Ingemar Patiño Macarine has a goal: To swim the English Channel, Catalina Channel and Marathon Island to promote clean seas, environmental tourism and climate change awareness.

Macarine has been swimming his whole life. Born in a small coastal town of Placer in Surigao del Norte in Mindanao, he spent nearly every day of his childhood swimming.

“I love the seas. Never did I fear swimming in the open water. And I think my life is very connected with water,” Macarine, who is an election officer of Tubigon town in Bohol province, said.

He was eight years old when he first dreamed about the possibility of swimming across the Surigao Strait. 

ENVIRONMENTAL AND TRI-ATHLETE lawyer Ingemar Macarine:

 ‘I want our children to enjoy the same clean seas and beaches. 

That is my environmental advocacy.’ Contributed Photo

"I learned to swim when I was in Grade 2. My friends and I just enjoyed swimming near the seashores. I told my friends, 'I wonder if anybody could swim over there," Macarine recalled. 

In his college days, he was a varsity swimmer at the Silliman University in Dumaguete City. 

Macarine said he especially wants to connect with and educate young people, the importance of clean seas. He also wants to raise awareness about climate change.  

Open-ocean swimming is among the toughest sporting disciplines in the world, said Macarine.  

His first open water swim was on Dec. 30, 2013. He was the first person to swim successfully from Basul Island to Lipata, Surigao City. 

“My first open water swim was unforgettable because that was my first time to swim against a strong current.  Three of my companions gave up. I was the only one who successfully crossed it,” he said. 

But for Macarine his latest challenge in Pamilacan Island in Bohol province last Jan. 31, was "the hardest and toughest yet".  He completed the gruelling 14-kilometer journey for 5 hours and 59 minutes.

He said strong currents kept pulling him off course so he had to change direction at least 14 times.

“It’s very challenging. This is my toughest swim because of strong current and waves. I had no choice but to use backstroke. The current changed several times and I had really a very hard time swimming against the current,” said Macarine.

The Pamilacan swim was his second in Bohol since he swam the 13.4-km stretch from Balicasag Island to mainland Panglao Island in 2014 during the first anniversary of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake. He did it to immortalize the Boholanos who had perished during the earthquake.

LAWYER  Ingemar Macarine says that his Pamilacan swim was the “hardest and toughest yet.’ 

Contributed Photo

Swimming in the open water is very safe so long as you have an escort boat, he said. 

Macarine said he follows the Marathon Swimming Federation Rules and performs his solo swimming without floating aid or help from any human or sea vessel.

The swim isn't easy.

"You need to be brave," he said. "And focus on what you’re doing."

At one point, he had been stung by jellyfishes. Sometimes, strong currents and big waves would somehow hinder his target.  Through it all, he held his mantra close: "Psalm 23...The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures: he leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul: he leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me...” His family-wife Raquel, and children- Lance, 6; and Colyn, 4, are his inspiration.

He said prior to his swim, he took time to read the Bible and pray.

"I read the Bible when I am in doubt, and of course, for the Lord's guidance. And my favorite is Psalm 23,” he said. 

He has since conquered seas in United States and Philippines.

Macarine had done similar feats in the past. He was acknowledged as the first Filipino to swim the 2.7-kilometer from Alcatraz Island Penitentiary to San Francisco City in April 2014.

He was also the first man to conquer the Babuyan Channel by swimming from Palaui Island to Mainland Sta. Ana, Province of Cagayan with a distance of 7.2 km in 2 hours on June 15,  2014.

He was also the first man to swim from Santa Fe in Bantayan Island to San Remigio in mainland Cebu, covering the distance of 19.99 km. He spent seven hours and 45 minutes to reach mainland Cebu.

He was also the first man who attempted to swim from Visayas to  Mindanao by swimming from San Ricardo, Southern Leyte to Surigao City, Northern Mindanao. Although the swim was unsuccessful, he made a personal record of swimming 23 kilometers in five and half hours in May 2014. 

Macarine was selected as one of the three Heroes of the Environment for 2015 by the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF). 

“I am so happy that I can inspire more people to care more for the marine environment,'" he said.

At 39, Macarine said he is in good health, and just wants to do his part in bringing about peace and friendship, as well as clean seas.

“I want our children to enjoy the same clean seas and beaches. That is my environmental advocacy,” he said, “Clean seas are very important today for the future generations.”

You can read Inquirer story here. 

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