Tagbilaran City wins 2025 TESDA National Kabalikat Award for TVET
Excellence
The City Government of Tagbilaran has been honored with the 2025 TESDA National Kabalikat Award, recognizing its strong and sustained commitment to advancing technical-vocational education and training (TVET) in the city.
The award was received by City Administrator Alvin Luis Acuzar, representing Mayor Jane Yap, during ceremonies held on November 24, 2025, at the Philippine Trade and Training Center in Pasay City.
The National Kabalikat Awards are given annually by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to institutions, organizations, and partners that have made notable contributions to expanding skills development opportunities for Filipinos.
Tagbilaran City was cited for its comprehensive and multi-agency approach to TVET, which has broadened access to job-ready skills and paved new pathways for employment and livelihood among residents.
Central to these efforts is the city’s collaboration with TESDA through the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), which has been instrumental in implementing community-based and scholarship-supported training programs.
One of the most impactful programs is the TESDA-funded Driving NC II Scholarship, which provides free driving training and road safety education to qualified applicants, helping them secure employment in logistics, transportation, and service industries.
PESO has also previously partnered with TESDA-accredited providers to offer cookery, hospitality, and food service programs to job seekers and displaced workers.
Similarly, Tagbilaran’s City Youth Development Office (CYDO) has facilitated multiple TESDA and TVET availments for out-of-school youth (OSY), supported by partnerships such as USAID’s Opportunity 2.0 Program and other TESDA scholarship initiatives.
These programs have enabled OSYs to train in vocational courses, earn national certifications, and transition to employment, further education, or entrepreneurship—significantly reducing barriers to economic participation among youth.
Mayor Jane Yap welcomed the award as a reflection of the city’s long-term development strategy.
“This recognition affirms our belief that skills training is a direct investment in our people. By providing more opportunities in TVET, we are opening doors for employment, entrepreneurship, and improved quality of life for Tagbilaranons. We thank TESDA for its unwavering partnership in strengthening our city’s workforce,” she said.
The City Government emphasized that the award serves as encouragement to expand its skills training portfolio further, including additional scholarship slots, higher employability support, and stronger collaboration with industry partners.
With the recognition from TESDA, Tagbilaran City consolidates its position as a Boholano leader in workforce development and inclusive economic growth.
Proud moment for Tagbilaran City! City Administrator Alvin Luis O. Acuzar receives the 2025 TESDA National Kabalikat Award on behalf of Mayor Jane C. Yap during the Awarding Ceremony at the Philippine Trade and Training Center in Pasay City. (Contributed photo)
Tagbilaran City unveils Go Negosyo Center offering One-Stop Shop for entrepreneurial support
The City Government of Tagbilaran formally launched the Tagbilaran City Go Negosyo Center on November 28, 2025, marking a major stride in expanding support for local entrepreneurs and strengthening the city’s business ecosystem.
The launching and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the City Economic Development Investment and Promotions Office (CEDIPO) where the new Go Negosyo Center is located.
Mayor Jane Yap, together with First District Congressman John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II, led the opening rites alongside CEDIPO Head Atty. Vincent Louie Raotraot, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Director Vierna Chiu-Ligan, Jerome Gabin, also of the DTI, and City Councilor Christian Merick Blanco.
The event gathered city officials, business representatives, and members of the MSME sector.
The establishment of the Go Negosyo Center aims to provide easier access to livelihood and business development services for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Tagbilaran City.
The center will offer enterprise registration assistance, business advisory sessions, product development support, and entrepreneurship training designed to equip local business owners with essential skills and opportunities.
Following the launching ceremony, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between the City Government of Tagbilaran and DTI, formalizing their partnership in delivering comprehensive MSME programs.
The agreement highlights the shared commitment of both agencies to strengthen local enterprises, improve market access, and foster an environment that supports innovation and sustainable growth.
Mayor Jane Yap emphasized that the Go Negosyo Center reflects Tagbilaran’s dedication to empowering its business community.
“This is not just a facility—it is a promise of support to every Tagbilaranon who dreams of starting or expanding a business. We want our entrepreneurs to know that the city government stands with them, providing the right tools, the right programs, and the right partnerships,” she said.
CEDIPO Head Atty. Raotraot likewise noted that the center will integrate the city’s ongoing economic initiatives with DTI’s nationwide programs, ensuring that Tagbilaran’s MSMEs remain competitive and future-ready.
With the launch of the Go Negosyo Center, Tagbilaran City reaffirms its commitment to nurturing economic resilience, strengthening livelihood opportunities, and supporting the growing community of local entrepreneurs.
From L-R: Atty. Vincent Louie A. Raotraot – CEDIPO Head, Hon. Christian Merick M. Blanco, Mayor Jane Yap, DTI Bohol Provincial Director Vierna Teresa C. Ligan, Congressman John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II, and Jerome John J. Gabin – SME Development Division Chief, during the MOA signing between the City Government of Tagbilaran and the Department of Trade and Industry for the Tagbilaran City Go Negosyo Center. (Contributed photo)
Tagbilaran City celebrates children’s month with a promise of hope and progress
The City Government of Tagbilaran culminated the 2025 National Children’s Month with a vibrant citywide celebration on November 26 at the Tagbilaran City Hall Atrium.
The event’s centerpiece was the State of the Children’s Address (SOCA) delivered on behalf of Mayor Jane Censoria C. Yap by City Councilor Fausto Budlong, underscoring the city’s dedication to ensuring that every child grows in a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment.
In her address, Mayor Yap reaffirmed the Yap–Jala Administration’s long-standing commitment to serve every Pamilyang Tagbilaranon “from womb to tomb,” highlighting that the welfare of children remains a cornerstone of the city’s governance.
She emphasized that building a progressive Tagbilaran requires prioritizing the needs, rights, and development of its youngest citizens—ensuring that no child is left behind, regardless of circumstance.
Mayor Yap outlined significant accomplishments in Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), reflecting the city’s focused investment in quality and accessible learning environments.
This year, 35 Child Development Centers were fully equipped with air-conditioning units, creating spaces that are healthier, more comfortable, and conducive to learning.
An additional CDC is currently under construction, aimed at expanding access for families in underserved areas.
To support modern and interactive teaching methods, 36 Smart TVs were distributed across CDCs.
The city also sustained its Supplemental Feeding Program, helping address the nutritional needs of young learners, particularly those from low-income households.
Complementing these efforts were the distribution of free P.E. uniforms and educational toys, reinforcing physical development and play-based learning as essential components of early childhood growth.
Mayor Yap further celebrated the city’s Early Childhood Care and Development Accreditation Passers—a testament to the dedication of Child Development Workers and the strong partnership between parents, communities, and local government.
She extended her heartfelt gratitude to the City Social Welfare and Development Office, barangay officials, and all partners who continue to champion the rights and welfare of Tagbilaranon children.
The address emphasized that a truly inclusive city is one that places its children at the center of planning and governance.
Mayor Yap called for continued collective action to ensure that every child—regardless of background—has access to opportunities that allow them to thrive and reach their full potential.
The celebration featured various performances and intermission numbers from preschoolers, showcasing the vibrance, creativity, and joy of Tagbilaranon children.
The event concluded with a unified message of hope and progress, reaffirming the city’s commitment to building a future where every child is valued, protected, and given the opportunity to succeed.
Tagbilaran City comes together for the children! City officials, partners, and young Tagbilaranon learners join forces to celebrate the 2025 National Children’s Month at the Tagbilaran City Hall Atrium. (Contributed photo)