Bohol, the Philippines’ first and only UNESCO Global Geopark, continues to lead in sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship through strong local and international partnerships.
This commitment was highlighted when the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh), under Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, welcomed the Hungarian delegation led by Her Excellency, Ambassador Titanilla Tóth, for a courtesy visit on February 6, 2026, at the Office of the Governor, New Capitol Building, Tagbilaran City.
Governor Aumentado, joined by Atty. John Titus Vistal, Provincial Planning and Development Office Head; Maria Fe Dominise, Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office Head; Joanne Pinat, Bohol Provincial Tourism Office Officer-In-Charge; and Melvin Salinasal of the Cooperation Unit–Protocol Affairs and International Relations Section, received Ambassador Tóth and the delegation composed of Mr. Emil Bakos, Deputy General Director for Economic Issues of the Hungarian National Assembly; Mr. Tibor Bárány, Deputy General Director for Legislation; and Ms. Vivien Józsa, Head of the Commercial Section of the Embassy of Hungary.
The delegation expressed interest in strengthening economic ties with Bohol, exploring future collaborations, and understanding how the province works hand-in-hand with national governance, noting similarities between Hungary and the Philippines.
The discussions focused on economic, cultural, and tourism cooperation. Governor Aumentado expressed delight at the delegation’s second visit, recalling previous discussions.
He highlighted the roles of his team—Atty. Vistal for planning, Ms. Dominise for investment, and Ms. Pinat for tourism—and shared the province’s goal of connecting cultures while promoting Bohol as a premier tourism destination.
He also expressed hopes of attracting more European and Hungarian visitors, including the possibility of establishing a direct flight to the island.
Ambassador Tóth praised Bohol’s rich history, natural beauty, and thriving tourism sector. She noted the delegation’s appreciation for the island’s flora, fauna, and heritage sites, including the Blood Compact and UNESCO recognition for Asin Tibuok.
She expressed gratitude for the two-day visit, saying it offered valuable lessons on heritage preservation, and affirmed plans to share these insights in Hungary while including Bohol in future collaborative agendas.
During discussions, Pinat highlighted sustainable tourism initiatives, from community-based programs to renewable energy and responsible natural resource management.
Meanwhile, Atty. Vistal presented the province’s strong economic performance, noting its GDP growth—the fastest in the region—its position as a creative and intellectual hub, and robust industries with high talent retention.
The delegation also explored potential partnerships in agriculture, education, tourism and hospitality studies, and water management.
Ambassador Tóth expressed interest in fostering academic collaboration with Hungarian universities, including scholarship opportunities and fully funded programs for Boholano students in agricultural and fisheries education.
The discussion also covered possible investments in water treatment and potable water systems to support island communities.
On tourism, the discussions emphasized sustainable, community-based initiatives, renewable energy, and responsible natural resource use, while promoting Bohol’s cultural heritage and UNESCO recognition for Asin Tibuok.
The Hungarian delegation also sought insights into legislative processes and how provincial governance aligns with national law.
Gov. Aumentado explained the distinction between national lawmaking and provincial executive initiatives, shared the province’s strategic roadmap—highlighting agricultural productivity, tourism development, poverty reduction, and openness to investors—and invited the delegation to visit Virgin Island to observe tourism programs in action.
The visit concluded on a positive note, with plans for the Hungarian delegation to return in April.
Through engagements, PGBh continues to strengthen international partnerships, promote sustainable development, and preserve Bohol’s cultural and environmental heritage, guided by the Strategic Governance Roadmap of the PGBh, ensuring growth that is inclusive, community-driven, and sustainable for generations to come. (PIMO/MFM)
