Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, recognized for her visionary leadership, was invited as a distinguished speaker at the Local and Regional Government Assembly (LRGA), an associated event of the 11th Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD) in Bangkok, Thailand.

This event held on February 21, 2024 was organized by the Asia-Pacific Local Government Coordinating Body through the United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific. 

It aimed to provide a pivotal platform for local and regional government leaders from the Asia-Pacific region to engage in a dialogue on actions crucial for accelerating the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under review in 2024.

In a statement, Mayor Yap expressed her pride in representing the Philippines to the international stage, saying, “It is both an honor and a responsibility to stand before the global community and share our city’s initiatives towards sustainable development.”

Reflecting on the diverse assembly of speakers from around the world, Mayor Yap emphasized the importance of global collaboration in addressing complex challenges.

“Sustainability knows no borders. By coming together, sharing experiences, and forging partnerships, we can create a more resilient and inclusive future for our cities and communities,” she added.

Participants, comprising local and regional government leaders, engaged in meaningful discussions to formulate a Joint Statement of Local and Regional Governments. This statement, presented to the 11th APFSD plenary, encapsulates the collective commitment and strategies proposed by the local and regional leaders towards achieving the SDGs.