By Helen Castaño | 10:44 AM July 21, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY – Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado delivered an impassioned and inspiring speech during the 171st Bohol Day celebration on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, rallying Boholanos to honor the province’s rich heritage while embracing innovation and progress.
“Today is not just Bohol’s birthday—it is our birthday as well,” Aumentado said, addressing a crowd of provincial leaders, guests, and locals gathered for the annual commemoration. “We celebrate over 17 decades of remarkable triumphs, enduring accomplishments, and transformative growth.”
The governor paid tribute to Bohol’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and industrious people, citing the island’s rise as a tourism and economic hub in the country. He also honored historical figures who helped shape Bohol’s identity, including Rajah Sikatuna, Francisco Dagohoy, Tamblot, and former President Carlos P. Garcia.
Aumentado also paid homage to his late father, former Governor Erico B. Aumentado, who championed inclusive development in the province.
With the theme “Atong Sandugo: Driving Innovation, Celebrating Boholano Heritage, Excellence and Beyond,” the governor underscored the need to blend timeless values with modern aspirations. He called on Boholanos to commit themselves to sustainable development, innovation, and excellence.
“Just as the sacred blood compact between Sikatuna and Legazpi symbolized an unbreakable bond, today we renew our covenant with Bohol—not through blood, but through our relentless pursuit of progress,” he said.
As Bohol looks to the future, Aumentado emphasized that true growth lies in remaining rooted in the past while reaching for new heights. “Let the lessons of our history ground us. Let the humility and strength of our forebears guide our steps, even as we reach for the stars.”
He closed with a pledge to build a smart, resilient, and inclusive Bohol—anchored in integrity, driven by innovation, and united by pride of place.
