By Helen Castaño | 01:56 PM June 30, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL — Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado vowed to continue reforms and push for a stronger, more self-reliant Bohol as he outlined his second-term agenda during his inauguration on Monday, June 30.
Speaking before a crowd of supporters at the Bohol Cultural Center after taking his oath of office, Aumentado said his reelection signaled continued trust and support from the people.
“The result of this year’s election said it all. You gave me an even stronger mandate than before,” he said. “That win did not silence the noise—but it proved that trust still lives here, and it lives strong.”
Aumentado said his administration will stay the course despite criticism, which he attributed to opposition to his efforts to implement structural reforms.
“Some people seem determined to bring me and my administration down—not because of anything we have done wrong, but because of what we have chosen to fix,” he said. “But we keep our focus on what matters: the people.”
He urged unity following the divisive election period, saying, “Nahuman na ang eleksyon. Balik na ta sa trabaho” (The election is over. Let’s get back to work).
Second-term focus
Aumentado said the priority in his second term will be on agriculture and food security, livelihood development, and drawing more investments that create long-term value. He outlined a two-fold economic approach: increasing local production to generate jobs, and raising household consumption to improve living standards.
To support this strategy, he unveiled key programs and initiatives:
Enhancing food production and aquaculture to ensure Bohol can sustainably feed its population regardless of climate conditions.
Expanding the rice buy-back program to include more farmers and institutionalizing it through provincial legislation.
Boosting the BPO industry, which currently includes four major companies in Tagbilaran and others in nearby towns. The government will support the sector by improving internet infrastructure, streamlining business processes, offering incentives, and partnering with schools for industry-ready training.
Advancing the Metro Bohol Vision, which aims to integrate Tagbilaran City with neighboring towns through a unified approach to transport, road expansion, zoning, waste management, and utilities.
Promoting responsible property development to attract investors while preserving Bohol’s natural environment and landscapes.
Maximizing the potential of the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, now under private management, to boost tourism and stimulate investment across key sectors.
Aumentado also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting Bohol as a UNESCO Global Geopark and a model for regenerative tourism.
He said the province will continue to build on the successes of past administrations by completing ongoing projects that benefit the public.
“We aim for a stronger Bohol,” he said. “One that is more resilient, more inclusive, and more capable of standing on its own while competing globally.”
