Tagbilaran launches first MSME Academy for local entrepreneurs
The City Government of Tagbilaran conducted its first MSME Academy on September 1–2, 2026.
The two-day learning and business development program was held at JJ’s Seafood Village.
It brought together local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The academy was organized by the City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (CEDIPO), headed by Atty. Vincent Louie Raotraot.
It was done in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The activity formed part of the city’s celebration of its 60th Charter Anniversary.
According to the city government, the inaugural MSME Academy was the first initiative of its kind in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, and Central Visayas.
It was designed to provide entrepreneurs with practical knowledge, tools, and insights to improve business operations and strengthen capacity for growth.
On the first day, resource speakers from DTI and the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) discussed topics on business development and financial management.
On the second day, participants went beyond the classrooms through site visits to selected local business establishments.
The participants gained firsthand exposure to actual business operations, practices, and strategies that they could apply to their own enterprises.
The activity also included output consolidation sessions with DTI coaches.
These sessions allowed participants to refine their learnings and translate them into practical business strategies.
Mayor Jane Yap said the establishment of the MSME Academy reflects the city government’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs who play an important role in the local economy.
“Our MSMEs are not only business owners; they are partners in creating jobs, generating economic activity, and building stronger communities,” Mayor Yap said.
“Through the MSME Academy, we want to equip our entrepreneurs with knowledge and opportunities that can help their businesses grow and become more resilient,” she added.
The city government said the initiative is part of its continuing efforts to create a more supportive environment for local businesses.
It also aims to encourage entrepreneurship as Tagbilaran moves forward after six decades of cityhood.
Through the MSME Academy, the city aims to provide local entrepreneurs with continuing opportunities for learning, mentoring, networking, and practical business development.
This is to help position MSMEs as active partners in Tagbilaran’s economic growth.
MSME participants join a hands-on workshop at Dao Public Market, a highlight of the inaugural MSME Academy on September 1–2, 2026. (Photo grabbed from the official Facebook page of the City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office – CEDIPO).
Tagbilaran holds orientation for new business registrants
Around 200 new business registrants in Tagbilaran City attended an orientation on business permits and local regulations on August 28, 2026 at JJ’s Seafood Village.
The event was organized by the City Government of Tagbilaran to guide new entrepreneurs and ensure they comply with city requirements.
The Tagbilaran City Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), headed by Ms. Mary Christine Bitoy-Montalban, CPA, JD, was one of the key offices involved in the activity.
The topics covered included solid waste management, business-related ordinances, the business permitting process, payment options and deadlines, sanitary permits, zoning, Office of the Building Official requirements, and Bureau of Fire Protection compliance.
The sessions were led by representatives from the Tagbilaran City Environmental Management Office, Sangguniang Panlungsod, BPLO, City Treasurer’s Office, City Health Office, City Planning and Development Office, and Bureau of Fire Protection.
The orientation also featured an introduction to GCash SoundPay.
This was followed by an open forum where participants asked questions and clarified concerns with the speakers.
In her message, Mayor Jane Yap stressed the importance of helping new business owners understand both the permitting process and the responsibilities of running a business.
She encouraged entrepreneurs to work closely with the city government and concerned agencies, comply with local regulations, and see the government as a partner in building sustainable businesses.
The activity gave new business registrants a clearer understanding of the requirements, deadlines, and regulations they need to follow as they start operations in Tagbilaran City.
City Administrator Alvin Luis O. Acuzar delivers Mayor Jane C. Yap’s message to around 200 new business registrants in Tagbilaran City on August 28, 2026 at JJ’s Seafood Village. (C