By I. Inojales | 07:40 PM September 28, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY—Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado has ordered a thorough investigation into the death of a 63-year-old American tourist who died following a fight at a bar along Alona Beach in Barangay Tawala, Panglao, early Sunday.
In a statement Monday, Aumentado expressed condolences to the victim’s family and said he had directed the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office (BPTO) to assist in the repatriation of the victim’s remains to the United States.
He also directed the Bohol Provincial Police Office, particularly the tourist police, to strengthen their presence in major tourism areas and maintain peace and order across the province.
“We are saddened by what happened in Tawala, Panglao, where an American national lost his life following an altercation at Alona Beach,” Aumentado said.
Police identified the victim as “Marc,” who was temporarily staying at a resort in Tawala.
The incident occurred at Escape Bar shortly before midnight on Saturday, Sept. 26, police said.
A concerned citizen reported the disturbance to the Bohol Tourist Police Unit at about 11:45 p.m. Responding officers found Marc and a 41-year-old man identified as “Anthony” of Dimiao engaged in a heated altercation.
Police said the two appeared to be under the influence of liquor and had exchanged blows. Marc was allegedly struck with a chair during the confrontation, causing him to lose consciousness.
He was rushed to the Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center in Tagbilaran City but was declared dead on arrival at about 12:20 a.m. Sunday.
Anthony was arrested at the scene and later turned over to the Panglao Police Station.
Police are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses as the investigation continues.
Aumentado described the incident as an isolated case and said it did not reflect the overall peace and security situation in Bohol.
“Bohol is known not only for its beautiful tourism sites but also for its people who warmly welcome visitors,” he said.
He said the provincial government would continue taking measures to prevent similar incidents and further strengthen the province’s tourism industry.
