Tagbilaran City embraces Open Government Partnership with Knowledge Sharing in South Cotabato
In a significant step towards more transparent and inclusive governance, Tagbilaran City joined Quezon City, Baguio City, and Larena of Siquijor in a knowledge-sharing session focused on the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Local initiative.
Hosted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Support for Local Governance Program (SLGP), this event offered new OGP Local members a chance to learn from the pioneering experiences of South Cotabato.
Held from November 12, 2024, at Venue 88 Hotel in General Santos City, the session brought together government officials, civil society leaders, and advocates from across Region XII.
With South Cotabato as a model, attendees engaged in lively discussions and shared ideas about how local governments can become more open, accountable, and responsive to citizens.
As a new member of OGP Local, Tagbilaran City is eager to adopt open government practices that foster transparency and citizen participation.
Mayor Jane Yap and the city’s leadership see this initiative as a way to strengthen Tagbilaran’s relationship with its residents by involving them in decision-making and ensuring that their voices are heard.
During the event, participants from Tagbilaran gained valuable insights into South Cotabato’s journey, learning how it has successfully engaged its communities and transformed its governance practices to meet public needs.
The program featured interactive panels, group activities, and feedback sessions that encouraged participants to explore challenges and solutions together.
South Cotabato’s OGP projects demonstrated how meaningful civic engagement can improve services, enhance trust in local government, and empower communities.
For Tagbilaran City, joining OGP Local is not just about adopting new policies – it is about reshaping governance to be more inclusive and accessible.
The city’s OGP commitments focus on expanding public access to information, promoting active civic participation, and using technology to drive innovation.
With lessons learned from South Cotabato, Tagbilaran City is excited to bring these initiatives to life, creating a government that works hand-in-hand with its citizens.
This event marks the beginning of a transformative journey for Tagbilaran, one that promises to make local governance more collaborative, transparent, and attuned to the needs of the community.
Tagbilaran City Chief of Staff Cathelyn O. Torremocha (6th from left) and Tagbilaran City College Administrator Del Mark A. Cagatin (7th from left) represented the city at the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Knowledge Sharing Session at Venue 88 Hotel, General Santos City, on November 12, 2024. Contributed photo
Tagbilaran unveils new sidewalk at Booy South Elementary
The City Government of Tagbilaran inaugurated a newly constructed sidewalk at Booy South Elementary School on November 14, 2024, marking a key addition to the city’s infrastructure aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for students, faculty, and the surrounding community.
The ceremony, led by Mayor Jane Yap, underscored the city’s commitment to community-centered projects that improve the quality of life for its residents.
The event was attended by City Administrator Alvin Luis Acuzar, Booy Barangay Captain Eutorgio Telmo Jr. and local barangay officials, Booy South Elementary School Principal Clementina Gamil, and school officials. Their collective presence signified the importance of this project as a collaborative effort to prioritize safety and educational access.
Mayor Yap, speaking at the inauguration, highlighted the importance of the project as part of a larger vision for a safer and more accessible Tagbilaran.
“Our students and families deserve secure and reliable pathways to travel to school and back home. This sidewalk is a testament to our commitment to their safety and well-being, and it reflects our dedication to strengthening infrastructure that serves our people,” she stated.
The blessing and unveiling ceremony was marked by a sense of gratitude and community spirit, with Booy barangay officials, school leaders, and parents expressing appreciation for the city’s initiative. The sidewalk now provides a safer pathway for students of Booy South Elementary School, especially during busy school hours, giving parents peace of mind about their children’s safety.
This sidewalk installation at Booy South Elementary School is part of a series of ongoing initiatives by the Yap-Jala administration to enhance the city’s educational infrastructure, safety, and accessibility.
The City Government of Tagbilaran inaugurated the newly completed sidewalk at Booy South Elementary School on November 14, 2024. In photo are Engr. Edna Lim of Atlantic Erectors (9th from left), Mayor Jane Yap (10th from left), Booy Elementary School Principal, Clementina Gamil (6th from right), Booy Barangay Captain Eutorgio Telmo Jr. (5th from right), and teachers from Booy Elementary School. Contributed photo
Tagbilaran City honored with Digital Democracy Award for Championing Citizen Engagement
In a significant recognition of its commitment to participatory governance, Tagbilaran City received the Digital Democracy Award from the Makati Business Club (MBC) on November 15, 2024, during the Digital Democracy Project’s culminating event held at Hilton Manila Hotel in Pasay.
Representing Mayor Jane Yap at the ceremony was Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala, who accepted the award on behalf of the city, commending the dedicated efforts that went into making Tagbilaran’s innovative citizen engagement initiatives a success.
The award, initiated by MBC in partnership with USAID Philippines, highlights local government units (LGUs) that effectively utilize digital platforms to amplify citizen voices and empower communities in shaping policy decisions.
Tagbilaran City was recognized specifically for its initiative, Reviving the Heart of Tagbilaran: The Old City Hall, an online survey aimed at gathering residents’ perspectives on redeveloping the city’s historic Old City Hall.
Launched during the Citizens Assembly opening on September 18, 2024, the survey encouraged citizens to contribute their ideas and feedback, paving the way for an inclusive approach to urban planning.
“This award underscores our administration’s commitment to transparency and citizen-driven projects,” shared Mayor Yap in a statement. “Through initiatives like this, we’re not only building a city for the people but with the people, ensuring every resident has a stake in shaping the future of Tagbilaran.”
The initiative was carried out in collaboration with the Tagbilaran City People’s Council (TCPC) and backed by MBC through the USAID CHANGE Project. The project received an enthusiastic response, allowing citizens to actively participate in shaping a civic space that represents the community’s aspirations and heritage.
The Digital Democracy Awards celebrate LGUs that demonstrate outstanding efforts in fostering citizen participation through digital tools, translating public input into tangible policies, and leading in digital governance practices.
The awards also spotlight initiatives that excel in public communication, data stewardship, and advancing digital inclusivity.
Tagbilaran City’s achievement sets a high standard in digital governance, solidifying its role as a progressive leader in fostering community engagement and empowering citizens to become partners in governance.
Furthermore, this recognition reflects Tagbilaran’s dedication to building a future shaped by public consensus, underscoring the city’s commitment to placing residents’ voices at the center of its development agenda.
Tagbilaran City received prestigious awards during the 2024 Bohol Competitiveness Summit on November 13, 2024 at the Bohol Cultural Center. Photo shows Mayor Jane Yap (4th from left) gladly holding the Plaque of Recognition plus a check that was presented to her. Others in photo from left to right: DTI Provincial Director Vierna Teresa Ligan, Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, Mayor Jane Yap, City Economic Development, Investment, and Promotion Officer Atty. Vincent Louie Raotraot, City Planning and Development Representative Jeanette Busano, Miss Bohol 2024 Cayle Tentativa and Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Officer Ma. Fe Dominise. Contributed photo