Governor Aris Aumentado said his government will focus on programs geared towards enhancing food security and agriculture and attracting more investments as he officially commenced his second term at noon on Monday.
Aumentado, who took his oath of office before Justice Geraldine Faith Econg of the Sandiganbayan, said he will issue three executive orders on the first day of his second term, one of which creates an Executive Planning Committee to review the province’s current agricultural agenda.
“This [committee] will review the existing agricultural plans and programs and how it can be overhauled too achieve meaningful and measurable improvement of the lives of the farmers and fisherfolks [sic],” he said.
Aumentado also plans to expand and institutionalize the government’s “rice buy-back” program through a provincial ordinance.
The governor did not go into specifics as to other concrete programs and initiatives.
These are the key points in the Aumentado’s brief speech regarding the province’s development agenda:
- Boost BPO Growth. With four major BPOs in the city and more in the towns, we’ll strengthen the industry by developing talent through school partnerships and industry-ready training. We’ll improve infrastructure, internet speed, and business processes, offer incentives, and actively promote Bohol as a prime BPO destination.
- Advance the Metro Bohol Vision. Unite Tagbilaran City and its neighboring towns through a shared vision of sustainable urban development. We’ll push for an integrated transport system, open and widen key roads, and promote collaboration on zoning, waste management, and utility infrastructure to ensure smart and balanced growth across the metro area. Promote Responsible Property Development. Attract more investors to build in Bohol while ensuring development remains sustainable-protecting the province’s natural beauty and preserving its lush, untouched landscapes.
- Maximize the Impact of the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. Leverage the airport’s full potential-under the management of a reputable private operator-to boost tourism, attract investments, and drive growth across related industries.
- Spread Bohol’s brand as a geopark and regenerative island.
- Continue to build upon the success of my predecessors and complete the good projects which were started.
(A. Doydora)
