The City Government of Tagbilaran has launched an online survey titled “Reviving the Heart of Tagbilaran: The Old City Hall,” inviting residents to share their ideas and opinions on the proposed redevelopment of the historic structure.

The initiative was officially introduced during the Opening of the Citizens Assembly on September 18, 2024, as part of the city’s efforts to promote inclusive and participatory governance.

This groundbreaking initiative, conducted in partnership with the Tagbilaran City People’s Council (TCPC) and supported by the Makati Business Club (MBC) through the USAID CHANGE Project, seeks to involve the public in government decision-making.

The survey is part of a broader public consultation campaign designed to gather insights from Tagbilaran City residents on how best to repurpose and rejuvenate the Old City Hall, a landmark that holds historical and cultural significance for the city. By participating, citizens can directly contribute to the formulation of redevelopment plans that reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.

Mayor Jane Yap emphasized the importance of public participation in her message: “This is the first of its kind here in Bohol. Your opinion is important to us. So I encourage you to take this online survey and together let’s make digital democracy in Tagbilaran alive.”

The Mayor also expressed her gratitude to the Makati Business Club and the USAID CHANGE Project for enabling this platform, which allows residents to have a direct say in the transformation of one of the city’s most iconic structures.

Residents are encouraged to participate in the survey by visiting the City Government’s Facebook page to scan the provided QR code or by accessing the survey directly through this link: https://forms.gle/6BorppgkyN6eomr98.

The survey will remain open until October 4, 2024, and the results will be presented during the Closing Citizens Assembly on October 8, 2024.

The City Government assures respondents that all feedback will be treated confidentially and will play a crucial role in determining the direction of the Old City Hall redevelopment.

This initiative is seen as a milestone in promoting transparent and inclusive governance, and the city officials are hopeful that this approach will set a precedent for future public consultations and projects in Tagbilaran.