By I. Inojales, Helen Castaño | 09:00 PM June 25, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), in conjunction with the Provincial Development Council (PDC), held a joint meeting on June 23, 2025, at the Ceremonial Hall of the New Capitol Building to review Bohol’s peace and order status and strengthen ongoing anti-crime, anti-drug, and rehabilitation efforts.
Governor Aris Aumentado led the meeting, which featured key updates from law enforcement agencies and provincial partners committed to ensuring public safety and drug-free communities.
Crime incidents down by nearly 29%
Police Lt. Col. Joey Bicoy of the Bohol Provincial Police Office reported a 28.57% drop in index crimes, with notable decreases in theft, robbery, physical injuries, murder, and motornapping.
However, Bicoy noted slight increases in homicide and rape cases—the latter linked to stronger community education and awareness efforts that are encouraging more victims to report.
In the campaign against illegal gambling, 194 operations were conducted from January 1 to May 31, 2025, resulting in 447 arrests across the province.
66% of barangays now drug-cleared
Bicoy also reported that 66.28% of barangays in Bohol have been officially declared drug-cleared through sustained efforts under the Barangay Drug Clearing Program.
Over 500 rehabilitated through community-based program
Dr. Greg Julius D. Sodusta V, head of the Center for Drug Education and Counseling (CeDEC), presented encouraging results from the province’s Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP). A total of 573 individuals have completed the program in the following municipalities:
Carmen – 254
Loon – 124
Getafe – 98
Dauis – 36
Maribojoc – 21
Lila – 20
Buenavista – 20
Support for former rebels
The Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (OPSWD) also shared updates on the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which supports former rebels in reintegrating into society.
Ongoing commitment to peace and recovery
The joint meeting reinforced the Provincial Government’s commitment to inclusive, community-led peacebuilding and rehabilitation, in line with its Strategic Change Agenda. Through continued collaboration between government, law enforcement, and civil society, Bohol remains focused on protecting its communities and fostering long-term security and wellness. With reports from PIMO
