The Comfort & Heart Behind the Filipiniana Gown

I had the chance to sit down with EJ Relampagos, one of Bohol's most respected fashion designers for his insight into the concept behind the Filipiniana worn by Bohol First Lady & 2nd District Congresswoman Maria Vanessa Cadorna Aumentado!                  

2nd Dist. Cong. VanVan Aumentado 

“Banig ug Puso” : Our comfort, our heart.

The “banig” is a traditional handwoven mat usually made from palm leaves is a profound symbol our ability to remain steadfast amid challenges.  More than a mat, it’s a metaphor for our spirit rooted in tradition, resilient in change  and always able to create warmth and comfort in the most uncertain places.

The “puso” is a rice wrapped in intricately woven coconut leaves. More than just food, it’s a powerful symbol of ingenuity and identity.  It carries our heritage and heart. In the same way, it holds tight to our traditions and values even when life unfolds far from home.  

Yellow is the color of joy which best describes the aura of Cong. Aumentado who always exudes a cheerful and warm personality. 

Credit goes also to Cong. Aumentado for believing in Boholano artistry and talent by supporting them through the Miss Bohol platform of which she is the Honorary Chair, a responsibility that she has held since 2022 and by wearing them especially in high-profile events, Boholano designers are now starting to get noticed in the national and international arena like EJ Relampagos who had an invite to showcase his designs at the Milan Fashion Week a couple of years back

Tagbilaran City Police Station Pababay Project Turnover

There's more to our police officers than just law enforcement and maintaining peace & order.

The TCPS Run 2025: Run for a Cause":made history as the first and only fun run in Bohol to establish a Pabahay Program with the  completion of their Pabahay Project. 

The Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS) formally turned over their latest  Pabahay Project to Mr. Virisimo Curayag and family in Purok 5, Barangay Tiptip. 

TCPS Chief PLTCOL John Kareen O. Escober, along with City Councilor Budlong & other officials, turns over Pabahay Project to Mr. Curayag of Brgy. Tiptip

The turnover symbolized not only a new beginning for the Curayag family but also a milestone in TCPS's unwavering commitment to public service that extends far beyond traditional policing and a strengthened police- community partnership.

City Mayor Jane C. Yap, whose administration has been a steadfast partner of TCPS in championing inclusive and community-driven projects was represented by City Councilor Fausto S. Budlong during the turnover. 

Police- Community Partnership

The house blessing was officiated by Rev. Fr. Absalon B. Florenosos, while Pastor Reysam Carvero, TCPS’s faith-based volunteer, delivered an inspiring message of faith and shared humanity.

Also in attendance were Brgy. Capt. Jeminador Lantape of Brgy. Tiptip, Pat. Nikkia Cañedo, and Pat. Carla Jane Tanio personnel from the Police Community Affairs & Development Group (PCADG), and members of the Tagbilaran City Police Station, who worked hand-in-hand to bring the project to life.

This initiative was led by PLTCOL JOHN KAREEN OLIVEROS ESCOBER, Chief of Police, through the station’s flagship programs Oplan LIMPYO TAGBILARAN and T.C.P.S. Cares.  

“This house is a symbol of what we can achieve when we move together with purpose. Dili lang ni balay—this is a product of compassion, community, and service with a heart. 

We vow to continue building lives, strengthening relationships, and promoting community safety with genuine care and service.said PLTCOL Escober during his remarks.

The Tagbilaran City Police Station expressed its deepest gratitude to all who made the project possible—from local officials to community leaders, volunteers, and every single participant of the run.