Baricuato desires safer, smarter Cebu

CEBU—Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro desires a “better, safer and smarter Cebu”, beyond resilience and urged local leaders, policymakers, business movers, and development partners to work toward an inclusive and purpose-driven economy, emphasizing unity, foresight, and compassion in rebuilding and advancing the province’s growth.

“Resilience is not enough. It cannot be our fallback every time disaster strikes. True strength demands foresight. It demands action. We must build not just back — but better, safer, and smarter.  While resilience is admirable, it should not be Cebu’s only response to crises,” Baricuatro told the participants at the Cebu Province Economic Forum 3.0 on October10 at the Capitol.

She called on sectors to focus on preparedness and proactive planning to ensure lasting progress, adding that the forum’s goal goes beyond numbers and economic performance. It is about building an economy that uplifts every sector, from farmers and fisherfolk to entrepreneurs, innovators, and the youth who will inherit Cebu’s future.

“Collaboration is important and progress can only be achieved through shared responsibility.  If we want to move Cebu ahead, we must move as one — with a clear vision, shared responsibility, and genuine collaboration. Government cannot do it alone. Neither can business,” she noted.

The Cebu Province Economic Forum 3.0 gathered key government officials, business leaders, and development institutions to discuss strategies for sustainable growth and post-quake recovery, anchored on the province’s vision of a resilient and inclusive economy.

The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the “Invest Cebu Prosper in Paradise” movement organized the forum with the theme, “Embracing Opportunities, Overcoming Challenges.”  Among the speakers included, Robert Dan Roces, Senior Assistant Vice President and Economist of SM Investments; Dr. Brian To, Senior Fellow at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania; and Evelyn Nacario-Castro, Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Central Visayas.

CCCI president, Jay Yuvallos thanked the provincial government for supporting such a powerful dialog bringing business leaders, policymakers, and development partners to shape Cebu’s economic future post the 6.9 magnitude earthquake and for championing collaboration and progress through this meaningful partnership with Cebu’s business sector. 

Baricuatro reiterated the importance of working together as one to transform the province into a Cebu that is not only resilient, but ready. Not only competitive, but compassionate. Not only growing, but grounded in integrity and purpose. (Photos: CCCI & Capitol PIO)