By I. Inojales | 03:20 PM October 15, 2025
In the early morning of October 15, 2025, the people of Loon gathered at the Municipal Center Grounds for a solemn and meaningful commemorative program marking the 12th anniversary of the 2013 Bohol Earthquake — the powerful 7.2-magnitude tremor that shook the province and left deep scars on countless families.
Time may heal wounds, but for the people of Loon, the memory of that fateful day — when 72 Loonanons lost their lives — remains vivid. The earthquake not only toppled churches and homes but also shattered dreams. Yet from the ruins rose the strength, faith, and resilience that continue to define the town’s spirit today.
The program began at exactly 8:00 a.m. with the sounding of sirens to commemorate the historic moment 12 years ago. Present during the event were LGU employees, representatives from COMELEC, DILG, BFP, and PNP Loon, and members of the 16th Sangguniang Bayan led by Vice Mayor Jorge J. Marapao, Jr. They joined together in prayer and remembrance.
Luigi Jacaban opened the program with a heartfelt poem reflecting the pain and lessons of the disaster:
“The quake shook our lives and joys,
Not just possessions were destroyed.
Beneath our homes, dreams were buried,
But from the rubble, hope was carried.”
His piece captured both the sorrow and resilience of Loon, perfectly aligning with the event’s theme:
“A Renewal of LGU-Loon’s Commitment to Disaster Preparedness and Response.”
Municipal Administrator Dr. Lloyd Peter Lopez delivered the message of Mayor Pedro “Dodong” Literatus, Jr., who honored the courage of those who survived and emphasized the importance of readiness and unity.
“Earthquakes strike without warning. Today, we renew our pledge to always be prepared. Like life itself, our foundations must be strong — in our professions, our morals, and our organizations. For when the foundation is firm, no challenge can bring us down,” Lopez said.
He also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the LGU-Loon administration, supported by the 16th Sangguniang Bayan, to institutionalize good governance through ISO certification — a mark of the town’s commitment to effective and responsive public service, especially during disasters.
Councilor Emerson “Dondon” Relampagos, speaking on behalf of Vice Mayor Marapao, delivered a stirring message on remembrance and preparedness:
“In remembering, we feel the pain of the past — but that pain teaches us how to prepare for the present and the future. We have faced many calamities, and that’s why Loon will always be ready.”
He also called for continued cooperation among all Loonanons in achieving peace and progress for the municipality. Present during the event were Councilors Jeanette Vidal, Hazel Saavedra, Etel Palma Tecson, Rain Merquita, LnB President Laniba, and Ruel Legitimas, along with department heads, MDRRMO, BFP, and PNP Loon personnel.
A moment of silence followed, honoring the 72 Loonanons who perished in the 2013 earthquake. Wreaths and flowers were offered, and candles were lit — symbolizing remembrance and enduring hope.
The commemoration concluded with a photo opportunity featuring local officials, employees, and participants — a portrait of solidarity and strength among a people who continue to stand tall despite life’s tremors.
The remembrance of the 2013 Bohol Earthquake is not only a look back at the past but a reminder of the courage and resilience that remain Loon’s most valuable treasures. As LGU-Loon continues to serve its people, it upholds a shared vision — to stay vigilant, united, and steadfast in building a safer, stronger, and more peaceful community.
