Pagadian City is the provincial capital of Zamboanga del Sur and the regional center of the Zamboanga Peninsula. In partnership with the City Government of Pagadian, Palafox Associates is assisting in updating their Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP), and Zoning Ordinance (ZO). As part of the final steps of this project, the first Public Hearing for their CLUP and ZO was held on August 18, 2022 at the Pagadian City Executive Function Hall.

More than 70 attendees including barangay captains, department heads, and representatives from civil society organizations and the private sector participated in the public hearing, which was also graced by Pagadian City Mayor Sammy Co. Stakeholder engagement is immensely crucial to the success and public acceptance of public projects and initiatives. The public hearing is the best opportunity for various stakeholders to actively contribute to Pagadian’s future as a stronger and more vibrant regional center and provincial capitol. This activity also allows Pagadianos to have a better appreciation and understanding of the planning process. 

The CLUP will guide the Pagadian City Government in identifying and implementing plans to achieve their intended spatial development. On the other hand, the ZO will be its enforcing arm to enact and implement the desired land use plan and monitor its progress. Lastly, the CDP will lead the Local Chief Executive, Department Heads, and stakeholders in identifying Pagadian’s programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) and guide them in prioritizing the implementation of the PPAs to achieve the City's envisioned development.

During the event, the stakeholders were able to share their valuable insights regarding the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Zoning Ordinance. Some of their notable recommendations include, among others: 1) adding more recreational and open spaces in the City, especially in the Central Business District of Pagadian; 2) improving the sidewalks in the City; and 3) strictly implementing buffer areas in the water bodies of the City as highlighted in the presentation of the City Planning and Development Office and the Palafox Team.  Stakeholders were also informed by the Palafox Team about the sectoral data and analysis of the City through the presentation of data used in the development of plans.

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