ISABELA CITY (January 16) — Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman is reshaping his public consultation program “Usap Tayo Gob” this year — not just to listen, but to force accountability inside the provincial government.
Speaking during the first Usap Tayo gathering of 2026 at the Raayat (People’s) Hall in the Basilan Provincial Capitol in Lamitan City, Hataman said he will limit capitol-based forums to once a month and spend the rest of the time personally visiting barangays across the province.
The shift, he said, is meant to close the gap between decision-makers and communities — and to challenge a culture where public officials operate at a distance from the people they serve.
“Government should not be hidden inside offices,” Hataman said. “You are the government — and together we should be the ones finding solutions.”
Under the expanded format, Hataman said he wants provincial officials and staff to directly face residents, hear grievances firsthand, and explain government programs in person rather than through memos or intermediaries.
“I also want my colleagues to understand that they can’t stay inside their offices for days without meeting the people,” he said.
“Usap Tayo,” which translates to “Let’s Talk,” functions as a public accountability platform where residents can raise concerns, question policies, and track commitments made by provincial officials. During Wednesday’s session, participants from different municipalities flagged local service gaps and discussed development priorities with Hataman and his team.
By taking the program into barangays, Hataman is effectively bringing the seat of power to the people, reversing the usual dynamic where citizens must travel and wait to be heard.
Local observers say the approach places pressure on officials to respond quickly, follow through on promises, and explain delays — all in full view of the communities affected.
For Hataman, the message is clear: leadership is not measured by speeches at the capitol, but by presence, transparency, and willingness to be questioned.
As the governor prepares to take Usap Tayo Gob on the road, Basilan residents will be watching not just what is promised — but what is delivered.
