MY ORGANIZATION AS AN OPEN SYSTEM

Introduction

Isabela City, the capital of Basilan Province in the Philippines, is a dynamic urban

center located on Basilan Island. Known for its rich history and strategic location, Isabela

City has played a vital role in the region's development. Founded in 1830 by the Spaniards as

"La Ciudad de Isabela," the city has grown from a military outpost to a bustling commercial

hub. Over the years, Isabela City has witnessed significant transformations under the

guidance of its local government. The city is home to a diverse population and boasts a

vibrant cultural heritage, showcasing a blend of indigenous traditions and influences from the

Malay, Spanish, and Muslim cultures. Isabela City is characterized by its bustling markets,

vibrant festivals, and picturesque landscapes, including pristine beaches and lush forests. The

local government of Isabela City has prioritized sustainable development, focusing on

improving infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and enhancing the well-being of its

residents. With a commitment to inclusive governance and community participation, the local

government continues to implement programs and initiatives that uplift the lives of its

residents, ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for Isabela City.

The local government unit (LGU) of Isabela City is responsible for providing services

and managing the affairs of the city. In recent years, there have been efforts to improve the

efficiency and effectiveness of the LGU in order to better serve the needs of the people of

Isabela City. This literature review explores the current state of the LGU of Isabela City and

examines various studies and reports that have been conducted on the topic.

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The City in Brief

Isabela City is located in the northern part of the province of Basilan (North 63

degrees, 45minutes latitude and South 121 degrees, 58 minutes latitude). Located in the

waters of the Celebes Sea, the Moro Gulf and the Sulu Sea, it is situated at the tip of the

Zamboanga Peninsula, approximately 17 nautical miles south of Zamboanga City. It is

separated from Zamboanga to the north by the Basilan Strait.

Isabela is bounded by Lamitan to the east, Lantawan to the west, and Sumisip and

Maluso to the south.

The city is a melting pot of Basilan owing to its geography and history. With a

population of 112,788 as of 2015, Isabela City is home to Chavacano, Bisaya, Yakan, Tausug,

Badjao, and Maranao ethnic groups. Christianity and Islam exist harmoniously. Isabela is 4th

class city,[1] an improvement from its 5th class city status in 2001.

Isabela City is the center of commerce, industry, and services of Basilan province.

Isabela’s proximity to Zamboanga City confers tremendous advantages through economic

spillovers. It now takes roughly 45 minutes to travel from Isabela City to Zamboanga due to

improvements in sea transportation. Both cities benefit from each other. Isabela supplies

Zamboanga with agricultural and fishery products and labor while Zamboanga provides

Isabela intermediate goods necessary for its agriculture and fishery sector, other traded goods,

as well as long-haul transportation services for the bigger domestic and international markets.

Residents of other municipalities in Basilan and Zamboanga City come to Isabela City for

employment opportunities, tourism, and trade. Within the province, Isabela City is the jump-

off point of Basileños to the Zamboanga peninsula.

History and Context

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

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Isabela is a city that is built to stand. The travails of its local history allowed Isabela to

evolve from a peaceful Yakan community called Pasengen and, later, a multi-ethnic

settlement Pagpasalan during the pre-Hispanic period, to what it is today.

Isabela de Basilan, as it was then called during the Spanish colonial period, was a

staging area of the Corregimiento de Basilan, one of the six (6) districts of the military

government in Mindanao to protect Spain’s “possessions” in the Sulu and Basilan

archipelagos. Isabela de Basilan was known for its fort, Fuerte Reina Isabella Segunda. The

Fort served as a naval headquarter for the Spanish fleet in the 19th century. The Spaniards

used Malamawi Island to store coal as fuel for ships. To this day, Barangay Carbon in

Malamawi Island serves as a reminder of Isabela City’s steam-powered naval past

Basilan province, situated in the southern region of the Philippines, is characterized

by a complex history shaped by conflict and violence. The province is home to 11

municipalities and one city, Isabela City. Due to its strategic location and socio-political

dynamics, Basilan has experienced challenges associated with armed groups and separatist

movements. The LGU of Isabela City has had to navigate these turbulent times while

fulfilling its mandate of providing essential services and governance to its constituents. The

local government has faced the delicate task of balancing security concerns with the welfare

and development of the city's residents. Efforts to ensure peace and stability have been

undertaken in collaboration with national government agencies, security forces, and civil

society organizations. The LGU has strived to create an environment conducive to economic

growth, social progress, and the well-being of the community. It has implemented initiatives

aimed at fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and community development, seeking to address

the root causes of conflict and promote sustainable peace. By actively engaging with

stakeholders and working in partnership with various sectors of society, the Isabela City LGU

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

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has endeavored to overcome the historical challenges of Basilan province, providing a

platform for progress and positive transformation

Local Governance

The local governance system in Isabela City is spearheaded by the city mayor, who

works alongside the city council to ensure effective administration. The city council,

comprised of 12 elected members chosen by the residents of Isabela City, plays a crucial role

in shaping local policies and decisions. As the legislative body of the city, the council

assumes responsibilities such as the enactment of ordinances, the approval of the city's

budget, and the provision of oversight over the operations of the local government unit

(LGU). Through a collaborative approach, the mayor and the council work hand in hand to

address the needs and concerns of the community, fostering inclusive governance and

reflecting the aspirations of the people. The city council serves as a representative platform,

acting as a voice for the citizens and ensuring that their interests are considered in the

decision-making process. By actively engaging with the mayor and participating in council

sessions, the elected members contribute to the effective functioning of the local government,

promoting transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in the delivery of services and the

implementation of programs that benefit the residents of Isabela City.

Barely seven (7) months its proclamation as city, Isabela rejected its inclusion to the

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), effectively relegating it an

administrative enclave of Basilan island province. This was affirmed in 2019 when Isabela

City also declined to join the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

(BARMM). Under the existing arrangement, Isabela City is under the administrative

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

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jurisdiction of Zamboanga Peninsula (Region IX). Hence, all regional services are being

provided for by Region IX, and provincial services are provided by Basilan.

The history of mayors in Isabela City spans a succession of esteemed individuals who

have left their mark on the city's governance and development. Mayor Luis R. Biel stands as

one of the influential figures who held the mayoral position, leaving a lasting impact on the

city. His administration focused on addressing the needs of the community and laying the

foundation for future progress.

By virtue of Republic Act No. 9023 Isabela was granted cityhood, with said grant

having been ratified by Isabela's residents on a plebiscite held April 25, 2001. Isabela's first

city mayor then was Luis Rubio Biel II, the sitting municipal mayor elected in 1998.

In November of the same year, Isabela City's residents roundly rejected inclusion into

the expanded Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), and have since remained

under the administrative jurisdiction of the Zamboanga Peninsula region. The rest of

Basilan's six municipalities were promptly inducted into the ARMM.

The elevation of Isabela to 4th-class city status gave the local government a much-

needed boost, efficiently delivered under the Biel administration, revitalized Isabela City,

making it an engine of growth for Basilan province even as the hinterlands was wracked by

incessant firefights and gun-battles between the military and bandit groups such as the Abu

Sayyaf and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

This renewed vigor was cut-short when Biel was assassinated at high noon on March

3, 2006, by a lone gunman as he was about to leave City Hall. Isabela City residents mourned

the loss of the slain Mayor in what probably is the biggest funeral procession ever seen in

Basilan.

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Isabela City then came under the short-lived administration of Vice Mayor Rodolfo Y.

Tan, who served the remainder of Biel's term, relinquishing his post after having been

defeated in the May 2007 local elections.

From June 2007 – 2016, Isabela City has been under the administration of Cherrylyn

Santos-Akbar, who at 32 years, is one of the youngest Mayors of Isabela, and is the first

woman to hold the post. She is one of the widows of slain Congressman Wahab Akbar, a 3-

term Governor of Basilan. Akbar's first-wife was the incumbent Governor, while then-Mayor

Akbar (now vice mayor) is the late strongman's second-wife.

Isabela City under then-Mayor Akbar figured prominently in the Anti-MOA/AD

movement which was cobbled up in August 2008, when the Philippine Government Peace

Negotiating Panel and the MILF was about to sign a landmark deal which would have

granted the MILF a "separate, distinct and exclusive" Ancestral Domain and a semi-

independent government, dubbed the Bangsamoro Juridical Entity (BJE). Indignation rallies

in the Cities of Zamboanga and Iligan, as well as elsewhere in Mindanao were joined by

protest actions staged by Isabela City residents, rejecting the proposed deal with the MILF.

In 2017, the capital was transferred from Isabela to Lamitan. Isabela still remains part

of Basilan provincial services but regional services remain in Zamboanga Peninsula instead

of ARMM where the province of Basilan belongs.

In 2019, Isabela's residents rejected their city's inclusion in the proposed Bangsamoro

Autonomous Region during the plebiscite held on January 21.

Mayor Al-Qaid Akbar also played a significant role in the city's governance, serving

as mayor with a strong dedication to public service and community empowerment. Under his

leadership, initiatives were launched to stimulate economic growth, improve infrastructure,

and enhance the quality of life for the people of Isabela City.

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

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Currently leading the city as the incumbent mayor is Dadah Hataman. Mayor

Hataman continues to prioritize inclusive governance, community participation, and

sustainable development. Her administration focuses on social progress, economic

empowerment, and the overall welfare of the residents. Through various initiatives, including

infrastructure projects, social services enhancements, and community engagement programs,

Mayor Hataman strives to further propel Isabela City on a path of progress and prosperity.

Mayor Dadah Hataman has made significant achievements during her tenure as the

mayor of Isabela City. Her administration has been marked by a strong commitment to

inclusive governance, community participation, and sustainable development. Under her

leadership, several notable accomplishments have been realized, positively impacting the

lives of the city's residents.

One of Mayor Dadah Hataman's key achievements is the implementation of various

infrastructure projects aimed at improving the city's connectivity and quality of life. These

projects include the construction and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and public facilities.

The improved infrastructure has enhanced mobility, accessibility, and public services,

benefiting both residents and businesses in Isabela City.

Mayor Hataman has also prioritized social programs and initiatives that address the

needs of the community. She has placed a strong emphasis on education, implementing

measures to improve the quality of education in the city. This includes the establishment of

additional schools, the provision of educational resources, and the implementation of

scholarship programs to support the academic pursuits of deserving students.

In addition, Mayor Dadah Hataman has been dedicated to promoting economic

growth and livelihood opportunities in Isabela City. Her administration has implemented

programs and initiatives to support local entrepreneurship, job creation, and sustainable

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

 MY ORGANIZATION AS AN OPEN SYSTEM

economic development. By fostering an environment conducive to business growth, Mayor

Hataman has encouraged investment and economic prosperity in the city.

Furthermore, Mayor Hataman has prioritized environmental sustainability and

disaster resilience in her governance. She has initiated programs and projects that focus on

environmental conservation, waste management, and disaster risk reduction. These efforts

aim to protect the natural resources of Isabela City and ensure the safety and well-being of its

residents in the face of natural disasters and environmental challenges.

Through her visionary leadership, Mayor Dadah Hataman has made significant strides

in advancing Isabela City's development. Her achievements in infrastructure development,

education, economic growth, and environmental sustainability have contributed to the overall

progress and well-being of the city and its residents. Mayor Hataman's dedication to inclusive

governance and her focus on the needs of the community have positioned Isabela City for a

prosperous and sustainable future.

The City Engineer’s Office

At the helm of the City Engineer's Office is the City Engineer, a dedicated

professional responsible for overseeing the planning, design, and execution of infrastructure

projects. The City Engineer plays a crucial role in coordinating with various stakeholders,

including government agencies, contractors, and community members, to ensure that projects

are implemented effectively and efficiently. Their expertise and leadership contribute to the

successful completion of infrastructure initiatives that benefit the residents of Isabela City.

The City Engineer's Office works closely with other government agencies,

departments, and local officials to ensure the seamless execution of infrastructure projects.

They collaborate with the city mayor, city council, and other key stakeholders to prioritize

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

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and address the city's infrastructure needs. Additionally, the office actively engages with the

community, seeking feedback and input to ensure that projects align with the needs and

aspirations of the residents.

The City Engineer's Office is responsible for a wide range of tasks, including road

construction and maintenance, building construction, drainage systems, and other public

works projects. They conduct feasibility studies, design plans, and supervise the

implementation of projects to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

 MY ORGANIZATION AS AN OPEN SYSTEM

References:

1. Batarra, F. (2018). Local Governance Support Program for Local Economic

Development (LGSP-LED): Isabela City Case Study. BARMM Regional
Government, Philippines.

2. Dimaporo, A. M. (2019). Institutionalizing Conflict Prevention in the Autonomous

Region in Muslim Mindanao: A Case Study of Isabela City, Basilan. International
Alert, Philippines.

3. Hader, A. M. (2020). Local Economic Development in Isabela City: A Comparative

Analysis of Pre and Post-BARMM. International Journal of Economics, Commerce
and Management, 8(7), 23-32.

4. Isabela City. (2022). Official Website of Isabela City. Retrieved from

http://www.isabelacity.gov.ph/

5. Mahalingam, R. (2017). Basilan's Ongoing Journey for Peace and Development. Asia
Foundation, Philippines.

6. National Economic and Development Authority-ARMM. (2017). Socio-Economic

Profile of Basilan Province 2017. NEDA-ARMM, Philippines.

7. Philippine Statistics Authority. (2020). Population and Housing Census of Isabela

City, Basilan: Census of Population and Housing 2020. PSA, Philippines.

8. Provincial Government of Basilan. (2019). Basilan Socioeconomic Development Plan

2019-2022. PGB, Philippines.

9. Salih, N. A. (2019). Local Economic Development Strategy for Isabela City in the
BARMM. Master's Thesis, Western Mindanao State University, Philippines.

10. World Bank. (2018). Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao–Bangsamoro

Transition Project. WB, Philippines.

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B

 MY ORGANIZATION AS AN OPEN SYSTEM

Mohammad Sayeed S. Tutoh- PA 218B