Tagbilaran City, the vibrant capital of Bohol, is embracing a future powered by sustainable urban development and smart city innovations. Spearheaded by the City Government of Tagbilaran, led by Mayor Jane Yap, and guided by PALAFOX, the city aims to become a first-world destination by 2050, balancing growth with environmental responsibility and digital transformation. The Urban Development Plan (UDP) is a blueprint for achieving this vision while addressing challenges in infrastructure, mobility, and inclusivity, among others.

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Proposed Vision for Tagbilaran City

Tagbilaran, the SMART and first-world city of Bohol, empowered by resilient and culturally sensitive citizenry, enjoying a sustainable and ecologically balanced environment, with a vibrant and inclusive economy, supported by green and premier infrastructure, and enabled by accountable and responsive governance.

This vision reflects the city’s commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic inclusivity, with sustainability as its guiding principle.

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Why Sustainable Cities Are Important

Sustainable cities are designed to meet today’s needs without compromising future generations. With rapid urbanization, cities like Tagbilaran require long-term strategies, which is why the Urban Development Plan prioritizes green infrastructure projects, smart city solutions, and inclusive urban spaces to support both residents and the environment.

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What Is a SMART City and How Does It Work?

A SMART city integrates digital technologies to improve service delivery, optimize resource use, and enhance urban living. Through smart city initiatives, Tagbilaran can enhance its global competitiveness and ensure long-term sustainability. Its transformation includes:

• City-wide Wi-Fi networks
• Smart transportation systems
• Smart government platforms
• Digital healthcare and education systems

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Key Components of the Urban Development Plan

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1. Civic and Trade Hub: A Center for Governance and Commerce

This hub will become the city’s focal point for government services and business activities. Modern civic spaces reflect participative governance, encouraging collaboration between the government, local businesses, and citizens.

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2. Sports Complex and Community Housing: Active and Inclusive Living

A new sports complex will promote healthy lifestyles, while adjacent affordable housing developments will provide safe and stable living environments for residents.

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3. Floating Market and Mangrove Boardwalk: Eco-Tourism and Natural Preservation

The development of a floating market and a mangrove boardwalk highlights the city’s dedication to environmental preservation and tourism. The mangrove boardwalk will serve as both a recreational attraction and an educational space where visitors can learn about ecological conservation.

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Green Infrastructure: A Foundation for Resilient Cities

Green infrastructure projects such as parks and mangrove restoration projects ensure that urban spaces contribute to both environmental health and community well-being.

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Key Benefits of the Urban Development Plan

1. Resilient Communities

Tagbilaran will implement disaster-resilient infrastructure, ensuring that communities can adapt to environmental challenges and natural disasters.

2. Inclusive Growth

Affordable housing, accessible public services, and smart transportation systems will support inclusive development, ensuring that no one is left behind.

3. Sustainable Urbanization

The integration of green infrastructure and eco-friendly policies will protect natural ecosystems while supporting responsible growth.

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A Vision for the Future

With the Urban Development Plan as its guide, Tagbilaran is poised to become a SMART and sustainable city that champions innovation, green infrastructure, and inclusive growth. PALAFOX’s approach to urban planning ensures that the city’s progress is future-proofed, meeting both current and long-term needs.

As Tagbilaran sets its sights on first-world city status by 2050, it serves as a model for other cities in the Philippines and Southeast Asia striving for resilient, eco-conscious development.

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