Tagbilaran City celebrates National Arts Month
Tagbilaran City burst into a celebration of creativity and cultural pride as it officially marked National Arts Month 2025 with the theme “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin.”
Held on February 28, 2025, at the Bohol Cultural Center, the event was spearheaded by the City Council for Culture and the Arts under the leadership of Mayor Jane C. Yap and Vice Mayor Atty. Adam Relson L. Jala.
A stunning array of artistic expressions took center stage, beginning with captivating visual and photography exhibits led by esteemed artists Joey Labrador and Sherwin Sapong.
This was followed by an inspiring message from Mayor Jane Yap, who underscored the city’s unwavering support for the arts and its role in shaping Tagbilaran’s cultural identity.
“Art is more than just expression—it is a powerful force that connects our past, enriches our present, and shapes our future. Tagbilaran City remains committed to nurturing local talent and ensuring that culture and the arts continue to thrive for generations to come,” Mayor Yap declared.
Cultural performances from the Tagbilaran City College Performing Arts enthralled audiences, while guest speaker Miss Luisa Abigail Go, co-founder of The Frame and AI Pilipinas-Cebu Chapter, delivered an insightful discussion on the role of culture in driving creative innovation in the digital era.
Traditional music and choral performances added to the festivities, immersing attendees in a rich tapestry of artistic expression.
The event also featured an engaging open forum where artists and cultural advocates exchanged ideas on sustaining artistic growth in the city.
The celebration culminated with the awarding of winners in various art competitions, honoring the exceptional talents of Tagbilaran’s youth and creative community.
Through this annual celebration, the City Government of Tagbilaran reaffirms its dedication to promoting and preserving local culture and the arts, ensuring that creativity continues to flourish as a vital part of the city’s identity and progress.
Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane C. Yap (center) poses for a photo with artists, cultural advocates, and attendees during the National Arts Month 2025 celebration at the Bohol Cultural Center on February 28, 2025. The event, held under the theme “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin,” highlighted the city’s unwavering commitment to supporting the arts and fostering creativity within the local community. Contributed photo
Tagbilaran City promotes open budgeting through OGP Webinar Series
The City Government of Tagbilaran, in partnership with the Tagbilaran City People’s Council (TCPC), launched its webinar series on Open Budgeting under the Open Government Partnership (OGP) commitment, “Open Budget for Responsive and Inclusive Budgeting.”
The first session aired live on Facebook via the Tagbilaran City Administrator’s Page on February 26, 2025.
Mayor Jane Yap welcomed participants and emphasized the City Government’s commitment to OGP principles—transparency, accountability, and civic participation—to improve governance.
The pilot session focused on the Annual Investment Program (AIP) Formulation, with City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) Head Engr. Estella B. Margate explaining the AIP process and the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in shaping the city’s budget.
The second session followed on February 28, 2025, presenting the approved budget for Calendar Year (CY) 2025.
City Budget Officer Marysol Perocho led the discussion, ensuring that Tagbilaranons are informed about how public funds will be allocated.
This move fosters transparency and strengthens citizen engagement in governance.
It can be recalled that the approved budget for CY 2025 was endorsed by the Tagbilaran City People’s Council (TCPC) before submission to the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
The first budget presentation was held on October 15, 2024, where CSOs actively participated in reviewing the proposed allocations.
The webinar series continues with upcoming sessions on March 26, 2025, and April 14, 2025, at the same time and platform.
The March session will cover the entire budget cycle—from preparation and authorization to execution and accountability.
Meanwhile, the April session will focus on the Orientation of the Electronic Performance Management Assessment Tool (ePFMAT).
Through this initiative, the City Government of Tagbilaran and the TCPC aim to expand their openness beyond recognized CSOs, ensuring that all citizens have access to information and a voice in government processes.
In photo is Mayor Jane Yap welcoming participants to the inaugural episode of the City Government of Tagbilaran’s Open Government Partnership commitment, focusing on “Open Budget for Responsive and Inclusive Budgeting.” This webinar series, developed in collaboration with the Tagbilaran City People’s Council, aims to foster transparency, accountability, and civic engagement in the city’s budgeting process. The first session, broadcast live on Facebook on February 26, 2025, centered on the formulation of the Annual Investment Program, emphasizing the crucial role of civil society organizations in shaping the city’s budget. Contributed photo