The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh), under the leadership of Gov. Aris Aumentado, has taken a significant step in reinforcing sustainable marine wildlife tourism through the presentation of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Executive Order No. 18, Series of 2026.
The IRR operationalizes Provincial Ordinance No. 2026-004, otherwise known as the Enhanced Sustainable Marine Wildlife Tourism Interaction Ordinance.
It was formally presented during the Joint Meeting of the Sustainable Wildlife Tourism Advisory Board and Technical Working Group (TWG) held on May 5, 2026, at the CPG Hall of the Capitol Building.
Leading the presentation was Atty. Handel Lagunay, who outlined the ordinance’s key provisions and implementation framework.
The Provincial Legal Officer highlighted the core components of the IRR, including the issuance of Certificates of Compliance, permit requirements, violations, applicable penalties, and regulatory procedures governing marine wildlife tourism activities in the province.
The IRR underscores its strict policy of “No Permit, No Operation,” reiterating that tourism operators must secure proper authorization before conducting any wildlife interaction activities.
It also reinforces responsible tourism practices through the prohibition of feeding, touching, and harassing marine wildlife.
Additionally, it establishes clear seasonal interaction rules, distance and safety regulations, designated tourism zones in the water, and controlled operational parameters to ensure ecological sustainability and visitor safety.
PGBh continues to uphold conservation as a fundamental pillar of Bohol’s sustainable tourism and environmental governance agenda.
Anchored in the Strategic Governance Roadmap of the Bohol Island Geopark, the province maintains a strong emphasis on environmental protection and resilience as key development priorities.
The meeting was attended by key provincial and national stakeholders, including Board Member Lucille Lagunay, Executive Assistant Nunila Pinat, PTC Co-chair Atty. Lucas Nunag, DILG-Bohol Provincial Director Johnjoan Mende, PCG Western Commander Babe Jocelle Isaga, and PCG Eastern Commander Kurt Daryl Aplal.
Representatives from the Environmental Management Bureau, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, BFAR Region VII, Department of Tourism Region VII, Bohol Provincial Police Office, and PNP Maritime Group were also present.
As part of the implementation roadmap, the Advisory Board and TWG will undertake a series of coordination meetings, advocacy forums, information campaigns, and operational dry runs to support the effective rollout of the ordinance across marine wildlife tourism sites in the province.
Through strengthened regulation and multi-sectoral collaboration, PGBh continues to advance responsible tourism practices while safeguarding its marine biodiversity for future generations. (PIMO/MAPI)
