BOHOL honored the legacy of former President Carlos P. Garcia (CPG) on November 4, 2026, celebrating his 130th birth anniversary through a gathering centered on unity, public service, and Boholano pride.
The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) opened the celebration with a wreath-laying ceremony at CPG Park, led by Gov. Aris Aumentado and Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas (OPAV) Secretary Philip Lo, together with Vice Gov. Nick Besas, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, members of the Executive Board, and other stakeholders.
Held at the Bohol Cultural Center, this year’s celebration carried the theme “Panulondon ni Caloy: Pagkahiusa, Pag-alagad, ug Paglambo,” honoring Garcia’s legacy as the country’s eighth president and a distinguished Boholano whose leadership reflected nationalism, integrity, and service to the people.
In his message, Aumentado called on Boholanos to preserve their heritage and ensure that the province’s natural wonders, culture, and resources continue to benefit future generations.
He also encouraged the youth to study Garcia’s life, principles, and vision for society.
Guest speaker Secretary Lo emphasized that unity does not require people to always agree but rather to recognize their shared responsibility in serving communities.
He highlighted Garcia’s leadership qualities and their relevance to present-day governance.
Along with Aumentado, Lo also discussed opportunities that can strengthen Bohol’s tourism industry through closer collaboration between local and national governments.
Meanwhile, Carla Garcia Campos, heir of President Garcia, underscored the importance of carrying forward his values, particularly unity, mutual respect, and selfless service.
“His example reminds us that we must find common ground, respect one another, and work together for the good of our people,” she said, stressing that public service must never be driven by personal gain but by a genuine desire to make a difference in people’s lives.
Her message reinforced the celebration’s theme, reminding Boholanos that Garcia’s legacy should be reflected not only in remembrance but also in how they serve and work together for the common good.
Adding to the occasion, the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark, under the leadership of Gov. Aumentado, received a ‘Green Card’ recommendation following its first revalidation mission, affirming its qualification to retain its designation for 2027–2031.
The unanimous decision was made by the UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp) Council during its 11th session at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France, on November 2–4, 2026.
Furthermore, the UGGp Council will present a report on its work and decisions to the UNESCO Executive Board for the latter’s endorsement and adoption in the first half of 2027.
As Bohol moves forward, every Boholano is called to carry Garcia’s legacy into action through unity, integrity, selfless service, and a shared commitment to protecting the province’s heritage and building a more inclusive, resilient, and progressive future, guided by PGBh’s Strategic Governance Roadmap. (PIMO/JFP)
