Good afternoon po.

Regarding food security in an agricultural and economical aspect, Does the City council have plans to further improve the current systems on that notion?

As Zamboanga city kept on importing even though we are rich in resources

For those who are attending Rappler’s public forum here in Zamboanga City, we’re about to finish our event! We’d love to know your takeaways! Feel free to share them here to get a chance to win gift certificates from Mang Inasal!

Councilor Rey Bayona Bayoging shared that enforcement is the core problem, noting that while 70 percent of the city’s main supply is available, much of it is not properly utilized during climate-related challenges.

Vice Mayor Beng Climaco reminded that the conversation is not hopeless, emphasizing that peace and security must remain priorities alongside governance.

Councilor Kim Villaflores pointed to corruption as a major concern, stressing that it directly affects families. She urged fellow officials to speak truthfully and hold leaders accountable for their decisions.

Reiterating his stand, Hon. Bayoging added that when politicians fail to perform their duties, the matter can and should be brought before the Ombudsman.

Isn’t also a question of food security that the reason why we don’t have enough food here is because the gov don’t invest on it? and if yes not invested enough what alternatives can you do right now as the administration to address this issue

Dwight de Leon of Rappler posed the question: “Where do you see Zamboanga three years from now?”

Councilor Rey Bayona Bayoging responded, emphasizing that the challenges faced by the city are now undeniable and must be addressed with concrete action rather than prolonged delay.

Councilor Kim Villaflores envisioned Zamboanga as a smart, sustainable, and inclusive city, stressing that the era of temporary, “band-aid” solutions must come to an end. She underscored the importance of critical and forward-looking leadership within the City Council to bring this vision to life.

Vice Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco, meanwhile, called attention to the fight against corruption, reminding Zamboangueños that the upcoming May 12, 2025 elections serve as a defining moment. She urged citizens to uphold integrity by electing leaders who can champion transparency, fairness, peace, security, and inclusivity—creating a system where every Zamboangueño can thrive.

TAKEAWAYS

Today's public forum provided a overview of the Zamboanga City Council's initiatives, existing problems, and solutions, complemented by their advocacies and insights regarding important issues, as discussed by the Mayor, Vice Mayor, Councilors, and sector representatives; the main take-home is the necessity for ongoing community discussion and collective action of the Zamboangueños to help promote their efforts and push for impactful solutions to make Zamboanga a liveable and inclusive city.

Certificates were awarded to Vice Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco, Councilor Kim Villaflores, and Councilor Rey Bayona Bayoging. Some participants were also acknowledged for sharing their takeaways and received Mang Inasal gift checks worth ₱300 each.

Wow