TAGBILARAN Eyes Central Public Market as Future Cultural and Tourism Hub Tourism and development stakeholders convened on June 9, 2026 for a site visit and assessment of the Tagbilaran City Central Public Market as part of efforts to transform the facility into a vibrant day-to-night cultural and tourism destination.
The initiative, undertaken by the City Government of Tagbilaran in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VII, seeks to position the city’s public market as a showcase of Tagbilaran’s rich cultural heritage, local products, culinary traditions, and community life while creating new opportunities for tourism-driven economic growth.
Representatives from the DOT Region VII, Bohol Provincial Tourism Office, Tagbilaran City Tourism Office, City Economic Enterprise Office, City Tourism Technical Working Group, City Legal Office, Office of the Chief of Staff, Sangguniang Panlungsod Secretariat, Tugas Tour Guides, iTag Tourism Alliance, the Bohol Association of Travel and Tour Operators, and other tourism stakeholders participated in the assessment.
The activity focused on evaluating the market’s potential as a tourism attraction that can offer visitors an immersive experience through local cuisine, cultural presentations, heritage storytelling, and community-based enterprises.
City officials said the project forms part of a broader strategy to diversify tourism offerings in Tagbilaran by highlighting everyday local experiences and strengthening connections between tourism and small businesses.
Mayor Jane Yap expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the role of tourism in generating livelihood opportunities and promoting inclusive economic development.
“Transforming the Central Public Market into a cultural and tourism hub will not only showcase the best of Tagbilaran but also create sustainable economic opportunities for our vendors, entrepreneurs, and local businesses,” Yap said.
She added that the city government remains committed to working closely with tourism partners and stakeholders to enhance visitor experiences and further strengthen Tagbilaran’s position as a dynamic and competitive tourism destination in Bohol.
The proposed development is expected to complement the city’s ongoing tourism promotion efforts while providing visitors with a unique venue where culture, commerce, and community converge in the heart of the city.
