DepEd Region VII recognizes Tagbilaran City
Tagbilaran City was honored with a Plaque of Appreciation by the Department of Education (DepEd) Regional Office VII in recognition of its invaluable support and contributions to public education.
The award was presented by DepEd 7 Regional Director Salustiano Jimenez during the 2025 DepEd Region 7’s State of the Region Address and Stakeholders’ Convergence held at Waterworld Hotel, Mandaue City, Cebu, on February 10, 2025.
Reaffirming its strong commitment to education, Tagbilaran City has been recognized for its allocation of ₱87 million annually for its Special Education Fund (SEF) to support the City Schools Division Office of Tagbilaran.
This substantial funding ensures essential services such as water, electricity, and the deployment of security personnel across public schools.
Additionally, the city continues to invest in critical infrastructure projects, including the construction of senior high school buildings, support for robotics programs, and ongoing school facility improvements to elevate the quality of education.
Representing Mayor Jane Yap, were Ms. Shayne Beniga and Ms. Fretzie Joyce Astronomo who received the award on behalf of the city.
Mayor Yap expressed her gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the city’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and high-quality education system.
Mayor Yap said: “Investing in education is investing in our future. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for our students and ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to excel. This recognition inspires us to continue strengthening our partnership with DepEd in building a brighter future for the youth of Tagbilaran.”
The award serves as a testament to Tagbilaran City’s unwavering support for education and its role as a key partner in advancing learning opportunities in Region VII.
In photo from left – right: Representing Mayor Jane Yap are Fretzie Joyce Astronomo and Ms. Shayne Josel Beniga receive the Plaque of Appreciation from DepEd Region VII. They are joined by Dr. Wilfreda Bongalos, DepEd Tagbilaran City Superintendent; Director Salustiano Jimenez, Regional Director of DepEd; Director Atty. Fiel Y. Almendra CESO IV, DepEd RO7 Assistant Regional Director; and Dr. Tomas T. Pastor, RO7 Chief Education Supervisor during the 2025 DepEd Region 7’s State of the Region Address and Stakeholders’ Convergence at Waterworld Hotel, Mandaue City, Cebu on February 10, 2025. The recognition highlighted Tagbilaran City’s steadfast commitment to education through its ₱87-million annual SEF allocation and continuous support for public schools. Contributed photo
Tagbilaran GSO marks fifth year of volunteer program
The City General Services Office (CGSO), led by Chris John Rener Torralba, Ph.D., spearheaded the “I am for Tagbilaran” Volunteer Program, a week-long initiative from February 10-14, 2025, aimed at strengthening volunteerism, community engagement, and environmental stewardship among government employees.
This program aligns with the Civil Service Commission’s Volunteer Program in the Public Sector and continues to promote the bayanihan spirit among city employees.
Launched in 2021, “I am for Tagbilaran” encourages CGSO employees to take an active role in community service.
This year’s activities started with a Holy Mass at the City Motorpool on February 10, 2025, symbolizing unity and commitment to public service.
Each CGSO Division led specific initiatives, ensuring that efforts are spread across various sectors of the community.
On February 10, 2025, the CGSO Supplies and Procurement Division launched the “I am for the Children” feeding program at Manga Magsayday Day Care Center, providing nutritious meals for young learners.
The following day, February 11, 2025, the CGSO Asset Management Division spearheaded the “I am for the Environment” coastal clean-up at Purok 1, Booy, underscoring the city’s commitment to environmental preservation.
On February 12, 2025, the CGSO Motorpool and Transportation Division led the “I am for the Community” initiative with a kitchen renovation project at Dao Day Care Center, enhancing the facility’s ability to serve meals to children.
On February 13, 2025, the CGSO Administrative and General Services Division took charge of the “I am for a Clean Tagbilaran”, organizing a clean-up drive at the City Hall compound to maintain a well-kept and orderly workplace.
The program culminated on the February 14, 2025 with “Project 6300 Tree Growing”, where all CGSO employees participated in a tree-growing activity at the City Agrivet Office in barangay Tiptip, contributing to the city’s urban greening and reforestation efforts.
CGSO extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Jane Yap, Vice Mayor Adam Jala, former Mayor John Geesnell “Baba” Yap, barangay officials, and all participants who contributed to the success of this volunteer activity.
Their support and active participation have made this initiative possible, reaffirming the collective commitment to fostering a cleaner, greener, and more inclusive Tagbilaran.
Photo shows City General Services Office (CGSO) employees proudly pose after completing their week-long ‘I am for Tagbilaran’ Volunteer Program. Led by CGSO Head Dr. Chris John Rener Torralba, Ph.D. (first row, center), the initiative promoted community service, environmental stewardship, and bayanihan spirit. Holding a symbolic banner, the team celebrates a successful program making a positive impact in Tagbilaran. Contributed photo