By Helen Castaño | 03:43 PM January 20, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY —Bohol Governor Erico Aris Aumentado on Tuesday signed the province’s new Tourism Code, a landmark legislation designed to advance sustainable, inclusive, and community-centered tourism across the province.
The Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025 aims to guide policies, programs, and investments in the tourism sector while ensuring a balance between growth, environmental protection, cultural preservation, and the welfare of local communities. It is part of Bohol’s broader vision to become a smart, resilient, and inclusive province and supports its bid to be recognized as a Unesco Global Geopark by 2028.
Authored by Board Member Jiselle Rae “Jamie” Aumentado Villamor, the measure updates outdated tourism policies and introduces a sustainability-driven framework aligned with Bohol’s development goals and its status as the country’s first Unesco Global Geopark.
During the signing ceremony, Aumentado expressed gratitude to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, led by Vice Governor Nick Besas, for their collaborative effort in crafting and passing the measure.
“The Tourism Code reflects Bohol’s commitment to becoming a more responsive and sustainable tourism destination amid a rapidly evolving industry,” the governor said.
“As the sector grows, the Boholano people must grow with it and directly benefit from it. Our local communities must remain at the heart of tourism development,” he added.
The legislation addresses emerging needs in the tourism industry, recalibrates existing strategies, and encourages diversification of tourism offerings while highlighting areas for further improvement. It also aligns tourism development with the province’s Strategic Change Agenda, emphasizing sustainability, human development, and long-term resilience.
Provincial officials noted that the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025 will serve as a blueprint for future initiatives, ensuring that tourism growth goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship, preservation of local culture, and community welfare.
