Citizens to Shape Cebu's Future in #MoveCebu 2026 Public Forum

Rappler, through its civic engagement arm MovePH, is returning to Cebu City for a series of community activities under the banner of #MoveCebu 2026. This initiative aims to empower local citizens to actively shape the future of Cebu as a liveable city. The core of the program is a public forum scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, at the University of San Carlos – Downtown Campus. This forum is designed to define and assess urban liveability by examining Cebu's specific realities and critical challenges. Key issues to be addressed include urban flooding, waste management, and the ongoing recovery efforts following recent typhoons and a significant earthquake. The event also intends to spotlight the crucial role of citizens as civic watchdogs and to equip local leaders and residents with the tools to define their own agenda for a more liveable Cebu. This civic empowerment roadshow is made possible with the support of the Government of Canada through its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives, alongside the Journalism for Nation Building Foundation. It is a collaborative effort, organized in partnership with prominent institutions such as the University of San Carlos (USC), the University of the Philippines Cebu (UP Cebu), JCI Cebu, and Cebu Citizens Initiative. Participation in the public forum is free of charge, but due to limited seating, advance registration is required by Monday, October 9. To foster active engagement during and after the forum, attendees are encouraged to download the Muni app, available on Google Play and the App Store. The public forum serves as the commencement of several activities under the #MoveCebu umbrella. These activities are geared towards bringing citizens, civic leaders, young journalists, and community organizations together to transform discussions into tangible community action. Additionally, Rappler is opening applications for the Movers Program, a volunteer network of changemakers. Selected applicants will undergo online sessions and on-site training/workshops in Cebu City, focusing on effective storytelling, community advocacy organizing, and building connections. This program aims to develop participants' skills in amplifying local voices and initiatives. #MoveCebu also includes a partners' gathering on Friday, October 16, providing a platform for representatives of local community organizations interested in collaborating with MovePH. Ultimately, from the public forum to the Movers workshops and the partners' gathering, #MoveCebu aims to create dedicated spaces for Cebu residents and civic groups to exchange ideas, foster connections, and identify concrete pathways for civic action within their communities. Source: Rappler Philippines