Tagbilaran City welcomes new business ventures amidst challenges
Tagbilaran City continues to strengthen its reputation as a vibrant hub for commerce and entrepreneurship with the opening of new business establishments this month, signaling sustained investor confidence and resilience amid recent challenges.
The series of blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremonies were graced by First District Congressman John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II, who represented Mayor Jane Yap, together with other officials and business representatives.
The events underscored the City Government’s commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving business environment across the city.
Among the newly opened establishments were Anlee’s Halo-Halo & Pao, which held its grand opening and ribbon-cutting on November 7, 2025 at the Ground Floor of Gie Gardens Building, M.H. Del Pilar Street, barangay Poblacion 2; and three others that officially opened on November 8, 2025 which are Shoe Box Footwear Shop at its City Hall Branch along Calceta Street, barangay Cogon; Rex Flores Beauty Studio at the 2nd Floor of SilGlo Building 1, in front of BISU Main Campus; and Velvet and Bows, which had its opening and soft launch at Marapao Street, barangay Poblacion 3, Tagbilaran City.
City officials expressed that the opening of these establishments reflects the unwavering optimism of the business community and the city’s continuing progress. “Every new business that opens in Tagbilaran represents jobs, opportunities, and growth for our people,” said Mayor Jane Yap in a statement. “We deeply appreciate the trust and confidence of our entrepreneurs who continue to believe in our city’s potential. Together, we are building a Tagbilaran that is vibrant, inclusive, and future-ready.”
The City Government, under the leadership of Mayor Yap and Vice Mayor Adam Jala, continues to streamline business processes and enhance ease-of-doing-business initiatives, encouraging both local and external investors to establish their enterprises in the city.
Despite recent adversities brought by natural calamities, Tagbilaran City remains steadfast in its goal of sustaining economic development and innovation.
The recent wave of business openings stands as a testament to the city’s collective spirit of resilience, cooperation, and commitment to a progressive and thriving local economy.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony marks the grand opening of Velvet and Bows’ latest branch in Tagbilaran City! First District Congressman John Geesnell ‘Baba’ Yap II represented Mayor Jane Yap at the event, held at Marapao Street, Barangay Poblacion 3. (Contributed photo)
Tagbilaran City Mayor cancels Christmas parties, channels funds to typhoon victims
Mayor Jane Yap has officially announced through her official facebook page on November 6, 2025 that there will be no Christmas parties in all departments and offices under the City Government of Tagbilaran this year.
Mayor Yap stated that the decision reflects the city’s compassion and solidarity with communities affected by recent typhoons, earthquakes, and other calamities.
Instead of holding the usual celebrations, each department will allocate its Christmas party budget to conduct feeding activities and gift-giving programs for urban poor families and children across the city.
“As Christmas draws near, we are reminded not just of celebration, but of compassion,” Mayor Yap said. “This year, we choose to share our blessings rather than hold a party. True Christmas is not in the festivities we host, but in the joy and hope we bring to others.”
Under the directive, departments will be assigned specific barangays or areas where they will conduct the outreach programs simultaneously on the same day.
The initiative aims to bring the spirit of Christmas directly to communities most in need, while strengthening camaraderie among city employees through service.
Despite the cancellation of parties, community-centered events will continue as part of the city’s holiday activities.
These include the Christmas Bazaar, Christmas Decoration Contest per Department, Christmas Drum and Lyre Competition, and other public presentations.
The celebration will conclude with a Christmas Thanksgiving Raffle for all City Government employees, to be conducted online and live.
Mayor Yap also encouraged national government agencies and offices in Tagbilaran City to adopt a similar approach, emphasizing that public service should reflect empathy and shared responsibility.
“This year, we choose service over celebration, giving over gatherings,” Mayor Yap said.
The City Government of Tagbilaran stands united in making this season a time of meaningful action and compassion for others.
Tagbilaran City government staff distribute relief goods to typhoon-displaced families as City Mayor Jane Yap told departments to redirect Christmas party budgets to aid affected communities, prioritizing compassion over celebration. (Contributed photo)