BY GLORIA LEODIVICA INES ARANETA
The cities of Tagbilaran and Mandaluyong formalized a sisterhood agreement on October 13, 2026.
The partnership opens opportunities for cooperation in investment, tourism, sports, and other areas of mutual interest.
The agreement was signed during a ceremony at Bohol Tropics Resort in Tagbilaran City.
The event was attended by Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, Mandaluyong City Mayor Carmelita “Menchie” Abalos, Tagbilaran City Vice Mayor Adam Jala, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, barangay captains, and other city officials.
Also present were Vice Mayor De Los Santos Suva Jr., national chairman of the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines, and Mandaluyong City Councilor Benjie Abalos, national president of the Philippine Councilors League.
Mayor Yap welcomed the Mandaluyong delegation and expressed optimism that the partnership would translate into concrete opportunities for both cities and their residents.
She said they were happy to formalize the sisterhood and begin building a relationship that would bring meaningful opportunities to their people.
She added that although they come from different cities, they share the same responsibility of finding ways to improve the lives of their constituents.
Yap emphasized that cooperation among local governments is particularly important amid global economic uncertainties.
She noted that such partnerships could open new channels for investment, employment, and livelihood.
She said Tagbilaran could learn from Mandaluyong’s economic experience while also introducing its tourism destinations, local products, and investment opportunities to businesses and organizations from the Metro Manila city.
The mayor also invited Mandaluyong to consider Tagbilaran as a venue for sports leagues, seminars, conventions, and other major gatherings that could attract visitors and stimulate local business activity.
She added that the sisterhood should be built on mutual learning and shared benefits, with both cities exploring practical ways to support each other’s development.
The agreement reflects the importance of inter-city cooperation in creating economic opportunities, encouraging knowledge-sharing, and improving services for constituents.
As the two cities begin their partnership, Yap expressed hope that the relationship would develop into lasting cooperation that would benefit communities in both Tagbilaran and Mandaluyong.