By I. Inojales | 08:42 PM July 13, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL — A concerned resident of Bohol has called on the provincial Government to urgently address the alarming rise in snake bite incidents, particularly those involving the highly venomous king cobra or banacon, following the death of a relative in Sevilla town.
In a letter addressed to provincial officials, Sheila Taghap expressed deep concern over the increasing number of snake bite cases in the province. She shared the tragic story of her cousin, Analinda Polinar Dultra, who recently died after being bitten by a king cobra while tending to rabbits outside her mother’s home in Barangay Cabancalan, Sevilla.
“This heartbreaking incident has underscored the urgent need for action and support from our government officials and designated agencies,” Taghap wrote.
She appealed for stronger government intervention, recommending that barangay health workers be equipped with proper training in snake bite first aid and emergency response.
Taghap emphasized the importance of expanding public awareness and improving community-level preparedness, especially in remote areas where immediate medical assistance may not be readily accessible.
Taghap also advocated for increased funding for barangays to support health initiatives, emergency equipment, and educational programs to better safeguard communities against similar incidents.
Citing the Local Government Code of the Philippines (R.A. 7160), particularly Section 2 on local autonomy, she reminded officials of the importance of empowering local government units to address pressing health and safety concerns specific to their areas. She likewise aligned her call with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030, particularly Goal 3, which seeks to ensure good health and well-being for all.
“I sincerely hope that my message resonates and that we can work together to tackle this critical issue. The safety and well-being of our community depend on our collective efforts,” she concluded.
As of this writing, the provincial government has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the appeal.
The province of Bohol has reported several snake bite incidents in recent years, particularly in rural areas, raising concerns about the availability of anti-venom and immediate medical response capabilities in far-flung communities.
