Tagbilaran reaps the 2023 Sandugo Street Dancing Champion Award

The streets of Tagbilaran came alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic beats, and graceful movements as the city emerged victorious in the highly anticipated 2023 Sandugo Street Dancing and Ritual Showdown Competition held on July 30, 2023. 

Tribu Tagbilaranon was declared the grand winner besting nine other contingents from the different municipalities of the province of Bohol. For its victory, Tribune Tagbilaran received P500,000.00 and a trophy.  

The Tagbilaran City contingent is also the recipient of all three special awards – Best in Street Dancing, Best in Costume and Best in Musicality. 

Wearing impressive costumes and dancing to the festive beat of Sandugo 2023, the performers showcased the rich culture and history of the city by remembering the fisherfolks of Tagubilaan, the old name of Tagbilaran City, and showcasing the hospitality and generosity of its people. 

City Mayor Jane Yap, who joined the Sandugo parade and witnessed the performance first hand, expressed her immense pride and joy over the city’s triumph. 

“Congratulations to our talented performers who showcased the beauty and richness of Tagbilaran’s cultural heritage through their amazing street dance. This is truly a testament to the unity and spirit of our city. We humbly dedicate this victory to our beloved city’s patron saint, Sr. San Jose,” Mayor Yap said.

Mayor Yap expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who generously supported and assisted Tribu Tagbilaran. She specifically thanked the City Government of Tagbilaran, Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala, and the 15th Sangguniang Panlungsod for their unwavering support.  

The City Mayor also extended her appreciation to Chief of Staff John Geesnell Yap II, Department Heads, Barangay Tiptip led by Punong Barangay Jeminador Lantape, the dedicated members of Tribu Tagbilaranon Team, Choreographer Joseph Alexis Cadeliña, and the talented Tagbilaran City Glam Team. 

Their collective efforts and cooperation made this achievement possible and contributed to the success of Tribu Tagbilaran.

The Sandugo Street Dancing and Ritual Showdown is the highlight of the annual Sandugo Festival organized by the Provincial Government of Bohol. 

The Sandugo Festival is a commemoration of the blood compact between Bohol Chieftain, Datu Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi which is a pivotal event in Philippine history and also known as the first international treaty of friendship.

PHOTO CAPTION 1

The City Government of Tagbilaran led by City Mayor Jane Yap (the one raising the trophy), supports Tribu Tagbilaranon who emerged as the grand champion aside from reaping all special awards during the 2023 Sandugo Street Dancing and Ritual Showdown Competition on July 30, 2023.

Mayor Yap leads 3 Switch On Ceremonies 

Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap led a series of switch on ceremonies marking the installation of new street lights in some parts of the city on August 2, 2023. 

The events took place at three key locations: Espuelas Street, Visarra Street, and Peñaflor Street. 

These endeavors are part of the city’s commitment to improve visibility in dark areas and ensure the safety of the residents and visitors.

“The installation of these modern street lights demonstrates our commitment to the well-being and safety of our citizens. With well-illuminated streets, we can walk with confidence and enjoy the beauty of our city even during the evenings. This project is a testament to our relentless pursuit of progress and the betterment of the lives of our people.” Mayor Yap explained.

Accompanying Mayor Yap in the switch on ceremony were Chief of Staff John Geesnell Yap II, Assistant City Engineer Ingrid Pocot, Engr. Felito Francisco (head of the Electrical Division of the City Engineer’s Office) and the different barangay officials. 

With brighter areas along Espuelas Street, Visarra Street and Peñaflor Street, Mayor Yap expressed hope for increased road safety in the said places. 

The well-lit roads offer added protection and convenience to the public, ensuring smooth navigation, even during the night time.

Moreover, Mayor Yap is very optimistic that with brighter streets, there will be a decline, if not, total eradication of criminal elements in society.   

The street lighting project in the city is part of a comprehensive initiative sourced from the 20% Development Fund, reflecting the local government’s commitment to continuously enhance infrastructure and services for its constituents.

PHOTO CAPTION 2

Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, third from left, led a series of switch on ceremonies marking the installation of new street lights in some parts of the city on August 2, 2023. 

Aside from mayor Yap, in photo from left to right are: Engr. Ingrid Pocot, Brgy. Kag. Pedro Doroy, Brgy. Capt. Eulogia Ayeng, Engr. Felito Francisco and Chief of Staff John Geesnell Yap II.