Strengthening Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response
BOHOL - The 30th Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) strengthened Bohol’s disaster preparedness and public safety efforts during its regular session on September 8, 2026. Presided over by Board Member Dionisio Joseph Balite, with Board Member Benjie Arcamo serving as Floor Leader, the session saw the approval of the Enhanced Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan 2026–2031 and Policy Framework. The plan will provide direction for the province’s disaster preparedness, emergency response, recovery, and long-term resilience-building initiatives. On first reading, the SP also advanced measures aimed at institutionalizing an integrated emergency medical response and pre-hospital care system while strengthening support for barangay tanods and amending provisions of the Provincial Revenue Code.
Improving Environmental and Land Management
The SP also authorized a Memorandum of Agreement between the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh), led by Gov. Aris Aumentado, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the implementation of Public Land Titling in Partnership with Local Government Units. The initiative is intended to improve land administration and expand access to land titles for eligible properties and communities. Amid current haze and air quality concerns, the provincial board also approved resolutions requesting the procurement and installation of an ambient air quality monitoring system and encouraging local government units to provide advisories regarding the proper use of N95 masks. These measures reflect the province’s efforts to strengthen environmental monitoring and provide communities with timely information during air quality concerns.
Building a Safer and More Resilient Bohol
Beyond the major policy measures, the SP approved the accreditation of several organizations and received committee reports covering education and environmental concerns. The body also expressed sympathy and posthumous recognition for the late Balilihan Kagawad Jose Bernard “Bernie” Lansang. Collectively, the measures approved and discussed during the session demonstrate the provincial government’s continuing focus on strengthening community resilience, public safety, emergency preparedness, and environmental stewardship. These efforts support Bohol’s Strategic Governance Roadmap and its goal of building a smart, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable province while protecting communities and natural resources within the country’s first and only UNESCO Global Geopark.
