Why is Everyone Going to Bohol?
I n a recent meeting my colleagues in development reform noted that many ODA-supported projects are either planning to go to Bohol or already there. Some were wondering, when would Bohol reach a point where it would not need ODA technical assistance anymore? I think they’re missing the point. It’s not that Bohol needs ODA, although they clearly benefit from it. I suspect it’s the other way around - ODA projects need, or at least prefer, to be in Bohol. Bohol’s got a lot going for it. There’s an interesting rural-urban mix. Beaches and resorts. Interesting spots. Cooperation among different political parties, after election. And a dynamic Governor. But you can also find these in other places. What makes Bohol different and attracts ODA are local officials who can carry out the Governor’s decisions and agreements with partners. From Department Heads to front-line workers, Bohol Provincial Government has a deep bench of employees who are both technically competent ...