By Helen Castaño | 01:55 PM November 04, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — Bohol commemorated the 130th birth anniversary of former President Carlos P. Garcia on Wednesday, November 4, with a wreath-laying ceremony and a commemorative program at the Provincial Capitol.
Provincial officials and Boholanos gathered to pay tribute to Garcia, the province’s most illustrious son, whose legacy of patriotism and nationalism helped shape the country’s history.
Born on November 4, 1896, in Talibon, Bohol, Garcia served as the eighth president of the Philippines. He is widely remembered for championing the “Filipino First” policy, which promoted Filipino businesses and industries and put national economic interests at the forefront.
Born on November 4, 1896, in Talibon, Bohol, Garcia is best remembered for his “Filipino First” policy, which promoted Filipino-owned businesses, strengthened domestic industries, and prioritized national economic interests.
A wreath-laying ceremony and commemorative program were held at the Bohol Provincial Capitol to pay tribute to Garcia, the province’s most illustrious son and the eighth president of the Philippines.
Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado said Garcia represented the best of Bohol on the national stage through his legacy of public service, dedication, and patriotism.
“He is a figure who has showcased the best of the Boholano on the national stage, bringing to the fore a legacy of service, dedication, and patriotism, exemplified by his flagship program, the ‘Filipino First’ Policy,” Aumentado said.
He said Garcia’s life reflected his vision of a Filipino nation that was empowered, capable of protecting its sovereignty, and able to develop its own resources.
From his beginnings in politics in Bohol to his presidency, Garcia consistently promoted unity as a foundation for building strong and sustainable communities, Aumentado said.
He also cited Garcia’s courage in defending the dignity of the Filipino people and his deep love for the country and concern for fellow Filipinos.
Aumentado said some of the country’s economic progress could also be traced to policies implemented during Garcia’s administration, particularly those aimed at strengthening an economy led by Filipinos.
At a time of increasingly complex challenges and a globalized economy, he said Garcia’s life and principles remain relevant to Boholanos and Filipinos.
Although Garcia’s worldview was shaped by the circumstances of his time, Aumentado said the values he upheld continue to offer lessons for the present generation.
Bohol Geopark receives Unesco green card
During his message, Aumentado also announced that the Bohol Island Unesco Global Geopark had received a green card from the Unesco Global Geoparks Council following its first revalidation mission.
The recognition paves the way for Bohol to retain its Unesco Global Geopark designation for another four years, subject to the endorsement and adoption of the Unesco Executive Board.
The decision was announced during the 11th session of the Unesco Global Geoparks Council in Paris, France.
Aumentado said the green card affirms that Bohol has met the criteria for geoheritage conservation, community involvement, and sustainable development.
He described the recognition as a result of unity and the province’s shared commitment to protecting its natural and cultural heritage.
In many ways, he said, the achievement reflects Garcia’s vision of putting the Filipino people and the country’s resources first.
“As we celebrate his legacy, let us also embrace our responsibility to preserve Bohol’s rich heritage and ensure that its natural wonders, culture, and resources will continue to benefit future generations,” Aumentado said.
He also urged Boholanos, particularly the youth, to study Garcia’s life, principles, and vision for society, saying these offer valuable lessons for future generations.
“May President Garcia continue to serve as a guiding star to every Boholano, today and tomorrow,” he said.
November 4 is observed as a special non-working public holiday in Bohol under Republic Act No. 7448 in honor of Garcia’s birth anniversary.
