BY GLORIA LEODIVICA INES ARANETA

The City Government of Tagbilaran formalized a three-year partnership with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the BDO Foundation through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on July 7, 2026.

The agreement aims to institutionalize financial education and promote financial inclusion across the city.

Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, and BDO Foundation President Mario Deriquito signed the MOA.

The signing followed a citywide Financial Education Program held earlier in the day at the City Hall Atrium.

The program brought together stakeholders from the agriculture, education, labor, transport, business, and banking sectors.

It was designed to strengthen their understanding of financial management and encourage informed financial decision-making.

City Administrator Alvin Luis Acuzar and Atty. Vincent Louie Raotraot, head of the City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office, welcomed the participants.

They stressed the importance of financial capability in fostering inclusive economic growth.

In her message, BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette T. Romulo-Puyat encouraged participants to become advocates of financial literacy within their respective sectors.

She emphasized that financial education is a critical tool in helping individuals and communities achieve long-term financial security and resilience.

The afternoon culminated with the signing of the MOA.

The agreement institutionalizes collaboration among the City Government, BSP, and the BDO Foundation over the next three years.

Under the agreement, the partners will implement capacity-building initiatives, training of trainers, curriculum integration, and community-based financial education programs.

These programs aim to equip Tagbilaranons with practical financial knowledge and skills.

Mayor Jane Yap said the partnership reflects the city’s commitment to empowering its citizens beyond traditional public services.

“Financial literacy is about empowering Tagbilaranons to make informed decisions, build resilient families, strengthen businesses, and create a more inclusive economy,” Mayor Yap said.

“When our people are financially equipped, they are better prepared to seize opportunities, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life,” she added.

The initiative also supports the city’s continuing digitalization and financial inclusion agenda.

It encourages wider participation in the formal banking system and promotes responsible financial management at the household and community levels.

Held as part of Tagbilaran City’s Diamond Jubilee celebration, the partnership marks the local government’s commitment to building not only a progressive city but also a financially empowered citizenry.

The event was held as Tagbilaran marks its 60th Charter Anniversary.