TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — The provincial government of Bohol has significantly increased the bounty for a thief who targeted a Taiwanese couple at the popular Alona Beach in Panglao, as local officials move to protect the province’s reputation as a top-tier tourist destination.
The Incident:
The theft occurred on February 22, 2026, while the victims were dining at a restaurant along the famous beachfront.
- The Crime: CCTV footage showed a man in a black hoodie and shorts casually positioning himself near the couple. He waited for other beachgoers to clear the area before snatching the couple’s bag from under their chair and making a quick exit.
- Stolen Goods: The bag contained two passports, credit and debit cards, and a significant amount of cash in both Philippine pesos and U.S. dollars.
- Recovered Items: The victims’ mobile phone was later found abandoned in a nearby grassy area, likely discarded by the suspect to avoid being tracked via GPS.
The Escalating Reward:
Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado initially offered ₱100,000 for information leading to the suspect’s arrest. However, as of Saturday, February 28, the reward has been raised to ₱150,000.
“We are calling on the public: anyone who can provide reliable information will receive the reward. Your identity will be kept strictly confidential,” Aumentado stated on his official social media channels.
Focus on Tourism Safety:
The high-profile case has sparked concerns among local business owners and tourists in Panglao. Authorities are under pressure to resolve the case quickly to reassure international visitors that the “Island Paradise” remains safe. Local police have increased patrols along Alona Beach and are currently reviewing additional security footage to trace the suspect’s escape route.