TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — San Juan City and the Province of Bohol strengthened their partnership by signing a sisterhood agreement during the Sandugo Festival 2026 in Tagbilaran City.
The agreement aims to promote closer cooperation between the two local governments in areas such as governance, tourism, culture, education, disaster preparedness, digital transformation, sports development, and economic growth. The partnership is also expected to help both sides share best practices and develop programs that can benefit their communities.
San Juan City mayor visits Bohol
Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado welcomed San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora during the festival celebration. Aumentado personally accompanied Zamora on a visit to the National Museum of the Philippines-Bohol, where the city mayor viewed exhibits featuring the province’s cultural heritage and historical treasures.
After the museum visit, Zamora joined Aumentado, Vice Governor Nicanor Besas Jr., and members of the Bohol Sangguniang Panlalawigan during the Sandugo Street Dancing Parade in Tagbilaran City. The parade was one of the major activities of the Sandugo Festival, which celebrates Bohol’s history, culture, and traditions.
Bohol and San Juan strengthen ties
The delegation later proceeded to the Bohol Cultural Center for the signing of the sisterhood agreement. The pact is intended to strengthen cooperation in local governance and public service while encouraging exchanges in tourism, culture, and economic development.
Zamora said the partnership reflects the importance of local governments learning from each other and working together to improve public service. He also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to partner with Bohol, citing the province’s rich heritage, growing tourism industry, and efforts to promote good governance. Zamora said San Juan City looks forward to turning the sisterhood agreement into programs that can create meaningful benefits for both communities.
Sisterhood pact seen as a modern Sandugo
Aumentado described the partnership as a modern expression of the spirit of the Sandugo, saying the agreement represents more than a formal ceremony. He said the pact creates a lasting connection between the people of Bohol and San Juan City.
The governor also pointed to the historical significance of the Sandugo blood compact, which is remembered as a symbol of friendship, equality, and mutual respect. According to Aumentado, the sisterhood agreement carries these values into the present day as a peaceful partnership based on shared goals and cooperation.
Officials witness Sandugo Grand Showdown
After the signing ceremony, Zamora, Aumentado, Besas, provincial officials, and other guests proceeded to the Carlos P. Garcia Sports Complex.
They witnessed the Sandugo Grand Showdown, one of the major cultural events of the Sandugo Festival. The event featured performances that highlighted the creativity, traditions, and cultural heritage of Bohol’s municipalities and cities.
As the guest of honor, Zamora also delivered the keynote address during the program, further highlighting the growing partnership between San Juan City and the Province of Bohol.
