The Cebu Provincial Government is taking a major step to formalize its ties with cities and regions around the world. The Provincial Board (PB) has given its crucial second-reading approval to an ordinance that will establish a permanent office dedicated to managing these vital relationships.
A New Hub for Partnership and Growth
During its regular session on December 15, 2025, the PB backed the proposal to create the International and Local Sisterhood Linkages Affairs Office, which will be known as Isla. This new body will operate directly under the Office of the Governor. The ordinance's proponent is Mandaue Lone District PB Member Malcolm Sanchez.
The core mission of Isla is to bring structure and professionalism to how Cebu builds and maintains partnerships. Currently, the province engages in numerous cooperative activities but lacks a dedicated office to oversee them. The new office aims to ensure all partnerships are aligned with Cebu's long-term development goals.
Structure and Mandate of the Isla Office
Once enacted, Isla will function as a special office with its own staff, budget, and organizational chart. It will act as the lead coordinator for all sisterhood programs, cultural exchanges, and cooperative projects. This work will follow the Local Government Code of 1991 and guidelines from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The proposed department head must hold at least a master's degree in fields like public administration or international relations and have over five years of relevant experience. The office will also include an assistant head, program development officers, and support staff to manage its wide-ranging duties.
Key Functions and Future Impact
The Isla office will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities designed to elevate Cebu's profile and effectiveness in partnership building. Its key functions will include:
- Initiating and overseeing new sister-city and twinning agreements.
- Coordinating all partnership programs and exchange activities.
- Developing project proposals that match the province's development plans.
- Serving as the main link to the Department of Foreign Affairs, DILG, embassies, and other partners.
- Facilitating official visits and representing Cebu in authorized forums.
The ordinance highlights the growing opportunities for Cebu in areas like trade, tourism, education, and climate resilience. By having a professional office in place, the province can better seize these opportunities for sustainable growth.
Funding for Isla will come from the Provincial Government's annual budget, covering personnel and operational costs. The office is also permitted to seek external grants, following standard government accounting rules. To ensure transparency, Isla will be required to submit an annual performance and financial report to the Governor and the PB by March 31 of each following year.
