By Marisol Bo-oc | 11:00 AM December 30, 2023
Gasoline robbery. Expat death. Disco scandal. These were some of the biggest news events in Bohol in 2023 and were among the most-read articles published by the Bohol Island News this year.
1)Ubay gasoline robbery suspects nabbed
Police on Wednesday (April 19) nabbed three robbery suspects who reportedly took away P390, 000 from a gasoline station in Barangay San Pascual in Ubay town.
The suspects were identified as Florencio Yangson Pelonia, 54, married, security guard and a resident of Purok 3, Lumbog, Guindulman, Bohol (driver-gunman); Rogelio Tama Edisa Jr, , 27, and a resident of Tampilisan, Zamboanga Del Norte and presently residing at Barangay Cabulihan Zamora Bilar Bohol (backrider-gunman); and Jerry Ligtas Ofamin, 37, single with live-in partner and a resident of Brgy. Bato, Guindulman, Bohol (informant-look-out).
They were arrested about 5:13 pm of April 19, 2023 at Purok in Barangay Guinacot, Guildulman, Bohol.
It has been reported that the three suspects consummated the henious robbery with homicide incident in Purok 2, San Pascual, Ubay Bohol targetting Sailor Oil Gasoline Station owned by MVC Corporation at past 5:20 p. m. on April 17, 2023.
The CCTV footage turned viral on the social media showing the suspects evil actions and even shooting to death by one of the victims, Marlowie Amparado, 29, married, a security guard (Escort) and a resident of Barangay Trinidad, Guildulman Bohol and also injured Pastor Tronueva legal age, married, a security guard and a resident of Dagohoy, Bohol.
2) Danish national shot in Panglao
A Danish national was immediately brought to a hospital after being shot in the head in Panglao town on Tuesday afternoon, June 27.
Panglao Police said officers responded to a an alarm ust after 2 p.m. along Purok 5 in Barangay Danao.
The victim was identified as Kristian Laurssen, a Danish National, a resident in the said barangay.
3) Cyclops skull in Bohol?
Netizens were pleasantly surprised over a photo that circulated online showing a huge skull with a hole in the middle. They called it “cyclops skull.”
The “Fradaulent Archaeology Wall of Shame” posted that the “cyclops skull” was found in Bohol.
“They found a mysterious cyclops skull in a Bohol Cave, Philippines. Studies revealed that the skull is about 10,000 years old and that it was a human of average height. He has a human shape, jaw and teeth, and everything about him is normal except for one singularity: a hole in the middle of his face, into which a huge eye fitted perfectly. This find is also striking because in the mythology of the peoples of that area there is a legend that there were Cyclops in ancient times, and when this skull was found it revived the belief that the story could be more than a legend.”
Was there a cyclops skull in Bohol?
An article from The Philippine Star in 2002 confirmed that a cyclops skull was found in a limestone cave in the hinterlands of Bohol.
However, the paper quoted Angel Bautista, a zooarcheologist of the National Museum, that “it belonged to an ordinary man buried in a limestone cave, not a one-eyed giant who, according to tribal folklore, once roamed the archipelago.”
The skull was returned to Bohol and reburied.
4) Balilihan disco scandal ( Gi-‘lollipop’ sulod sa discohan: Mga Bol-anon gikondenar ug nanawagan nga imbestigahun kini)
A video of a lewd scene involving a transwoman and underage man at a disco in Balilihan has gone viral on social media,
sparking outrage and criticism from netizens.
The incident occurred during the town’s fiesta on Sunday, July 16, 2023.
In the video, the transwoman can be seen performing a lewd act on the young man, who was surrounded by his friends or colleagues inside the disco.
Balilihan Mayor Pureza Veloso-Chatto has called on netizens all over the world to stop spreading and re-posting the scandalous video, or face legal consequences.
5) Bohol’s Peligrino places 9th in Civil Engineering exam
Crisnico Peligrino, a graduate of Bohol Island State University (BISU) -Tagbilaran landed in the Top 10 of the April 2023 Civil Engineering Licensure Exam.
He ranked 9th with a score of 89.35.
He shared the same spot with Jester Silapan of University of Southern Mindanao-Kabacan and Daniello Camilon of Polytechnic University of the Philipines-Main Sta. Mesa
BISU also produced 84 new civil engineers.
Peligrino graduated elementary at Basdio Elem. School in Guindulman town, Bohol. He finished high school at Guinacot National High School. He placed
first in Webpage Designing
Division STEP-Technolympics 2016.
6) AMICI: PH’s latest modern ship building and repair facility opens in Bohol
Artemis Marine and Industrial Construction, Inc. (AMICI) proudly announces its emergence as the latest modern ship building and ship repair facility in the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in country’s maritime landscape. Its entry into the maritime arena is poised to amplify the country’s shipping capacities encapsulating dedicated efforts towards innovation, technology, and infrastructure development within the maritime sector.
With a development spanning 19 hectares in Barangay Cruz, Buenavista, in Bohol, AMICI stands as one of the largest shipyards in Visayas and Mindanao. Its substantial presence is seen to bring transformative impact not only within Bohol but also across the entire nation. AMICI’s establishment signifies a boost for regional growth and a significant contribution to the country’s maritime capabilities.
At the core of AMICI’s operations lies an advanced facility, groundbreaking technology, and future-ready capacity. Its dedication to excellence is also evident in its adherence to safety, health, environmental, and quality management standards. Spearheading these commitments is the leadership of Engr. William Christopher U. Liu, Jr. (CEO), Alvin G. Basal (General Manager), and Engr. Pantaleon Giangan, Jr. (Senior Operations Manager).
AMICI’s advanced facility features an impressive capacity of a big-scale transfers technology designed with a simultaneous dry-dock capacity of 12 100-meter length ships expandable through side ward railways extension. The facility is primed for future growth, with plans underway to extend its capacity to accommodate up to 20 ships, ensuring the facility’s ability to adapt and expand its services.
To date, AMICI has already serviced 40 vessels through drydocking at the AMICI Marine Shipyard.
Beyond job creation, AMICI’s impact is seen to be profound as it sets the stage for a vibrant economic ecosystem, nurturing local suppliers, boosting revenue streams, and driving economic growth. This groundbreaking venture isn’t just a milestone in industrial development, it is also a catalyst for propelling Bohol towards regional prominence.
Committing to continuously incorporate the use of innovative technologies and streamlined sustainable processes, the Primary Group of Builders (PGB) established AMICI in 2018, and eventually started the development of its facility in 2019. It then recognized the industry’s perennial challenge — the shortage of skilled workers, a vital resource the shipping industry heavily relies on. Technologies in the ship building and repair industry are also evolving, requiring workers and shipyards to adapt and innovate continuously.
To bridge the manpower gap, the technical vocational institute established by PGB, The School of Knowledge for Industrial Labor, Leadership, and Service (SKILLS) inaugurated a Bohol branch to help develop skilled workers. Also, AMICI’s Maritime Cadetship program has graduated a handful of Boholano youths, promising more in the future.
As part of the esteemed PGB conglomerate with over 70 years of track record, AMICI aligns with group’s commitment to multifaceted business excellence across construction and manufacturing, real estate, shipping and logistics, health and lifestyle, and human capital development. PGB’s footprint in Bohol commenced in 2011, manifesting in various residential housing developments in different parts of Bohol as well as the operation of a batching plant by its construction and manufacturing arm.
AMICIs ascendancy as a modern shipyard is underpinned by its cutting-edge infrastructure, commitment to excellence, and a diverse array of services, positioning itself as a frontrunner in the Philippines’s maritime industry landscape.
Tuesday’s blessing and inauguration was attended by Gov. Aris Aumentado, Buenavista Mayor Dave Duallo and local officials and village officials, Philippine National Police (PNP) -Buenavista, Provincial Environment & Natural Resources Office (Penro), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda), Philippine Coast Guard Coastguard (PCG), Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), employees of Primary Group of Builders and stakeholders.
Duallo said that AMICI’s investment in Buenavista is a game changer. AMICI has employed 500 residents from Buenavista and neighboring towns.
“Nausab ang ilang kinabuhi ug tagsa-tagsa nga sitwasyon sa ilang kinabuhi,” said Duallo of AMICI’s employees.
Aumentado thanked the management of AMICI Ship Building and Ship Repair “for the trust that you have placed in Bohol.”
“As we open the doors for various opportunities, this will also indicate that Bohol is not just open for business, but rather we are ready to take the challenge of becoming a globally competitive province,” said Aumentado.
7) Carmen Municipal College now opens
The Carmen Municipal College (CMC) in Carmen town in Bohol formally opened on Saturday, Sept. 16, for the school year 2023-2024, with an initial enrollment of 350 students.
The local government of Carmen under the leadership of Mayor Che Toribio-Delos Reyes, Vice Mayor Romeo Bigay, town councilors and municipal administrator lawyer Eliezer Cagol were in attendance during the blessing and ceremonial ribbon-cutting in the two-story building.
Vice Gov. Victor Balite, Board Member Nathaniel Binlod and 3rd district Rep. Alexie Besas-Tutor graced the occasion.
The board of directors and CMC President Dr. Federico Ticong, teachers and barangay officials also attended the event.
Mayor Che said the new college school will cater students from Carmen and neighboring towns.
The new school will give the youth the opportunity to study for free with the initial offering of Information Systems (BSIS), Bachelor of Science in Criminology (BS Crim) and BS in Management Accounting (BSMA).
“This was a dream come true,” Mayor Che said. ” This is the stepping stone of their good life and future.”
8) Max Surban thrills fans at Panglao concert
The King of Visayan Songs Max Surban had earned rapturous applause from his fans as he performed at Barangay Bolod in Panglao on Monday night, Feb. 6.
The music legend was invited by Dr. Doloreich and Malou Dumaluan for the Dumaluan Family Night for the feast of San Sebastian in Barangay Bolod.
Surban, 82, peformed his signature songs such as “Turagsoy”, “Opaw”, “Bolatik Lang” and “Libakera” which the audience sang with him and dished out his brand of humor.
He had also a duet with Rodrigo Biloy, a Yoyoy Villame impersonator from Dauis town. The two sang “Dagohoy Rock.”
The program started at past 8 p. m. due to heavy rains. Fans were worried it would be cancelled. However, for Surban the show must go on.
Music legend Max Surban with Dr. Doloreich Dumaluan, Marilou Dumaluan, Dr. Doyet Dumaluan and Dr. Mimi Dumaluan during the Dumaluan Night in Barangay Bolod in Panglao.
His fans stayed. They were happy to see their “idol” again.
It has been years since the music legend last played in Bohol.
Surban narrated that he had 40 concerts with Bohol’s pride the late Yoyoy Villame, the Original King of Novelty Songs.
Surban was born and raised in Cebu City. He started singing at 19.
Singing is his first love that eventually turned into a lifelong passion. His melodies bring laughter and giggles to his listeners.
Most of his songs are original and funny. They also reflect Filipino traditions especially those of the barrios, towns and provinces.
His secret to staying long in the industry is his connection to the people.
9) Cokaliong’s newest vessel serves Ubay, Bohol to Cebu route
Cokaliong held the blessing and inauguration of its newest vessel, the MV Filipinas Ubay on Saturday, March 11, 2023.
Gov. Aris Aumentado and 2nd district Rep. Vanessa Aumentado graced the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Aumentado recognized the role of the newest Cokaliong’s’ vessel in the economy.
Chester Cokaliong, CEO and COO of Cokaliong Shipping Lines, said that he bought MV Filipinas Ubay worth P110 million upon the long-standing request of Gov. Aumentado.
“Mingsud ta diri sa Bohol tungod sa request ni Aris. Nanawag si Aris nako ‘Gobernador nako Sir, ayaw nako balibari sa barko para sa Ubay’,” Cokaliong said in his speech.
Aumentado said the new route will open up more opportunities especially in the Bohol, particularly in the second district.
“Human sa dugay nga panahon, aduna nay ruta sa barko gikan sa Ubay ngadto sa Cebu ug pabalik! Pinaagi sa M/V Filipinas Ubay sa Cokaliong Shipping Lines, mas mapadali na pagbyahe sa atong mga higala sa Ubay ug sa Segundo Distrito,” said Aumentado.
Rep. Aumentado said more opportunities will come along with the entry of MV Filipinas Ubay since the new route will provide passengers and shippers an alternative option to travel and conduct business in Ubay and Cebu.
“Kini maghatag og dugang nga oportunidad sa mga Bol-anon,” she said.
Cokaliong said MV Filipinas Ubay is the smallest and 16th ship of the company. He revealed the second-hand ship was built in China and specifically designed for the Philippine waters.
It can accommodate 350 passengers and 20-25 10-wheeler trucks.
Other visitors during the blessing ceremony were Vice Gov. Victor Balite, Ubay Mayor Constantino Reyes, Vice Mayor Victor Bonghanoy, Councilors Violeta Reyes and IC Besas, Clarin Mayor Eugene Ibarra, and barangay officials.
10) Amelinckx reaps 10 special awards in MUP 2023 preliminary challenge
Pauline Amelinckx, Bohol’s bet for Miss Universe Philippines 2023 for the 3rd time, harvested 10 special awards in Miss Universe preliminary competition.
She garnered the Ms Creamsilk Ultimate, Ms. Soen, Ms. Kemans Body, Ms. Hello Glow, Ms. Origee Beauty Drink by skin magical , Ms. Jojo Bragais, Ms. Titan Universe, Ms. Enderun , Ms. Smilee Apparel and Ms. Avana.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2023 grand coronation night is on Saturday, May 13.
Amelinckx, along with other candidates, has been in Leyte for a swing tour lately.
“Our mini escapade in the Eastern Visayas Escapade. Im so happy we were able to go to the beach again before our Competition. It was a good break and reset from everything,” she said in fv post.
She expressed gratitude to the said province.
“Thank you, Leyte! As someone who loves the sand and sea, this was such an amazing experience. And even here, we were welcomed with open arms and so many Cultural Performances from different provinces. They even performed Bohol’s Kuradang this made me teary eyed as i do kinda miss home and its fiesta season now too. But, I know that I am where I am meant to be, and Im so happy to still keep learning and seeing more about our beautiful PH,” she said.
“Damo nga Salamat, Leyte and @themissuniverseph.”
Eventually, Amelinckx finished as first runner-up at the Miss Supranational 2023 international pageant on Saturday, July 15 (Philippine time) in Poland.
