Baricuatro advances crisis leadership, disaster readiness to protect Cebu communities

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuaro pushes for crisis leadership reinforcing a governance approach centered on preparedness, rapid response, and coordinated action ensuring that every Cebuano is protected before, during, and after disasters.

Baricuatro placed disaster readiness at the core of provincial leadership, shifting from reactive emergency measures to a proactive, data-driven strategy designed to minimize risk, safeguard lives, and accelerate recovery.

“Our duty is to make sure Cebu is ready not only to withstand crises, but to emerge stronger from them,” Baricuatro said, adding that disaster preparedness is ultimately about protecting livelihoods, sustaining economic activity, and ensuring that families can recover quickly and with dignity.

As climate risks intensify across the region, Cebu Province continues to strengthen its systems, partnerships, and leadership to safeguard communities and build a culture of preparedness that endures beyond any single storm as Cebu continues to face the realities of stronger typhoons and floods.

“Disasters should never catch us unprepared. Our responsibility is to anticipate, act early, and stand with our communities every step of the way,” the governor said.

Baricuatro has directed the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) to strengthen its use of real-time weather intelligence, hazard mapping, and predictive data analysis to guide early warnings and pre-emptive evacuations in high-risk areas.

She bared that local governments are now equipped with clearer protocols, faster information flows, and synchronized response systems ensuring that decisions are made based on science, not urgency alone.  This shift enables Cebu to move critical resources ahead of landfall, reduce exposure in vulnerable communities, and avoid the delays that historically complicated disaster response.

The governor has prioritized seamless coordination among LGUs, national agencies, and uniformed services, creating an integrated response network that activates even before severe weather hits.  Joint planning and regular inter-agency simulations now align provincial teams with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Coast Guard, and national disaster authorities allowing rescue, relief, and clearing operations to begin immediately when needed.

“The goal is simple: no duplication, no confusion, just unified action.” Baricuatro maintained a hands-on presence during severe weather events, personally overseeing emergency operations, monitoring evacuation readiness, and ensuring that frontline responders receive the logistical support required to act swiftly.

Political observers said that her leadership model emphasizes clarity, calm decision-making, and direct engagement with affected communities strengthening public confidence during uncertain moments.

Beyond emergency response, the provincial government is investing in long-term resilience measures, including strengthened early warning systems across municipalities; pre-positioning of relief supplies and emergency equipment; Climate-resilient infrastructure planning in coordination with national agencies; capacity-building programs for barangay-level disaster response teams and continuous risk assessment to guide land-use and development decisions.

These initiatives aim not only to respond to disasters but to reduce their impact over time as climate patterns evolve for a safer, more prepared Cebu. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

New DPWH7 director sets direction with swift actions, reform agenda

CEBU CITY – Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Region VII new regional director, Engr. Simon Arias buckled down to work after he assumed office this month, moving decisively to strengthen project delivery, improve coordination with stakeholders, and reinforce transparency and accountability across Central Visayas’ infrastructure programs.

“As public servants, our duty is to deliver safe, durable, and timely infrastructure that genuinely improves the lives of our people.  Every project must reflect accountability, technical excellence, and service to the public,” Arias told his staff at DPWH7.

Engr. Arias reaffirmed DPWH’s core values by directing personnel to uphold professionalism, integrity, and efficiency in all operations. He also encouraged innovation and proactive problem-solving to address bottlenecks affecting project implementation.

His first week was filled with a comprehensive review of ongoing and priority infrastructure projects across Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor to ensure alignment with national development goals and regional needs.

He emphasized the timely completion of projects, strict adherence to quality standards, and responsible utilization of public funds.  Engr. Arias also led a series of coordination meetings with district engineering offices to assess operational challenges, streamline processes, and reinforce performance monitoring mechanisms.

These engagements underscored his commitment to hands-on leadership and evidence-based decision-making, and the importance of collaboration.  With these in mind, Arias strengthened partnerships with local government units, national agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure infrastructure projects respond directly to community needs and support economic growth, disaster resilience, and connectivity in the region.

Under his leadership, DPWH-7 is expected to accelerate the implementation of priority road, bridge, flood control, and public infrastructure projects—reinforcing the agency’s role in advancing inclusive growth and sustainable development in Central Visayas. (Photos: DPWH7)

Preparing Cebu for long-term Japanese investors

CEBU CITY – Preparing Cebu to be an ideal destination for long-term Japanese investors is not a matter of promotion, but of credibility, says Jay Yuvallos, president, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) in a media conversation when the Philippines and Japan celebrated 70 years of diplomatic relations this year.

“More than the economic side, the social and cultural relationship is very alive. There is trust there, and the foundation lies in trust, discipline and long-term thinking—values I believe must consistently guide Cebu’s development,” Yuvallos shared.

The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) sees a growing business opportunity for long-term Japanese investors and preparing Cebu for that, the Chamber is turning its attention to long-term cooperation in infrastructure, urban planning and climate resilience.

Early this year, Yuvallos said, the CCCI leads a multi-sector delegation to Japan composed of business leaders and local government officials to study Japanese approaches to flood control, urban planning and infrastructure governance.

“At home, CCCI is grounding its vision through tangible investments. It recently broke ground on a new phase of development at its headquarters, with construction set to commence on facilities designed to support innovation, collaboration and long-term capacity building for Cebu’s business community,” Yuvallos bared.

He added that part of the Chamber’s existing building is also being converted into an innovation hub that will house climate resilience programs, academe-industry collaboration, startup pitching spaces and SME showrooms, creating a platform for shared problem-solving and practical cooperation.

                                     Cebu as a creative, technology hub

Yuvallos, an entrepreneur who transitioned from furniture exports into logistics, warehousing and real estate, described Cebu’s relationship with Japan as one that has matured through decades of business engagement and cultural exchanges.

He said that Cebu hosts several Japanese companies, particularly in manufacturing, shipbuilding and export processing zones, alongside a visible Japanese presence in food, retail and services.  

While Japanese tourism and investment slowed during the pandemic and have not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, the fundamentals of the relationship remain strong, supported by familiarity, business confidence and people-to-people ties.

Looking ahead, CCCI sees growing opportunity in creative industries such as animation, game development and digital entertainment.  Cebu already has firms providing subcontract services to Japanese and U.S. companies, reflecting a deep pool of creative and technical talent.

The Chamber’s focus is now on helping local companies move beyond subcontracting toward higher-value partnerships, Yuvallos said, adding that this transition is closely tied to alignment with Japanese business standards. As Japan faces workforce constraints driven by an aging population, demand continues to grow for reliable partners that can deliver quality, scale and consistency.

“Cebu, I believe, is well positioned to respond, provided it maintains discipline in execution.  To reinforce this, CCCI has emphasized punctuality, structure and accountability across its programs.  Events begin strictly on time, schedules are adhered to, and expectations are clearly defined, reflecting the professional standards expected in Japanese business environments,” Yuvallos mentioned.

According to Yuvallos that beyond creative industries, Cebu’s broader economic role continues to expand. Despite repeated challenges, including natural disasters and infrastructure gaps, the region has consistently recorded growth rates above the national average. This resilience is rooted in a business community that remains engaged and collaborative, even across competing interests.

The Cebu Chamber also champions responsible technology and cultural innovation as it continues to promote artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity practices that strengthen Cebu’s economic, educational, and cultural foundations.

At the Human-AI Complementarity in Practice forum held on February 9 at Palm Grass Cebu Heritage Hotel, Darwin John Moises, Vice President for Partnerships, Engagement, and Governance (PEG) and ICT Champion, highlighted how AI can responsibly support heritage preservation, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, education, and ethical digital practices in maintaining Cebu’s cultural identity.

Through these engagements, CCCI reinforces its leadership in promoting responsible technology, bridging industry and academe to create a Cebu where innovation, culture, and education thrive together. (Photos: CCCI)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hotel George now opens for guests, business in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Hotel George, an 18-storey property offering a fine blend of business and leisure accommodation is now open with its grand launch on February 8 located near the city center’s buzzling business districts, at Pope John Paul II Avenue, Kasambagan, Cebu City.

In a side interview with Elle Uy, owner’s representative at the grand opening and blessing event, she shared that Hotel George has 129 well-appointed rooms under standard, deluxe, superior, premier deluxe and junior suite categories. 

“The name Hotel George comes from the name of one of the owners of the hotel.  We were already calling it “Hotel George” even before the building construction and so Hotel George it is,” Uy said.

Groups and individual guests would find a sleek, functional and cozy accommodation that suits their needs and preference, Uy shared adding that hotel amenities include a swimming pool and penthouse at the rooftop overlooking the scenic city skyline, perfect for intimate events and celebrations.

A casual all-day-café offers all-day-breakfast, light meals, entrees and drinks. Guests can look forward to personalized service and assistance from check-in to check-out, ensuring stay-value on each stay encounter. Fast and free WiFi is available in all guest rooms and public areas.

“Hotel George is conveniently located and is easily accessible to and from the central business districts; Cebu I.T. Park and Cebu Business Park, world-class shopping malls, dining and leisure hubs.  A stay at the hotel may serve as a practical jump-off point to known local attractions of the city and the rest of the island,” Uy added.

Whether on a trip for business, leisure or urban adventure, get to experience Hotel George, Cebu at your doorstep, the hotel’s signature pitch.   Hotel George is managed by George Uy and the Ling siblings, notable industry veterans in the commercial real estate leasing business in Cebu.  

Room promo introductory rate are available now for single or double accommodation at Php 1,100 nett per room night stay, valid from February 8 to 13, 2026.  Special Valentine’s Day promo starts at Php 2,140 per room night stay valid from February 14, 15 & 16, 2026. Terms and conditions apply.

For reservations, contact us at 032-8870315, 09978879777 or email at rsvn@hotelgeorgecebu.com. For information and updates, follow Hotel George on Facebook and Instagram. (Photos: Hotel George/MBCNewman)

 

 

Gov’t leaders, lawmakers convene to shape dev’t direction of Central Visayas

CEBU CITY – The Regional Development Council (RDC)-Central Visayas convened the members of the Joint RDC Executive and Advisory Committees, regional line agencies, local chief executives, and district representatives from across the region, at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City on February 9 for a high-level consultation and technical review of the region’s annual development budget alignment for presentation for the proposed national budget for 2027.

“We gather today not only to review numbers and proposals, but more importantly, to shape the development direction of Central Visayas for FY 2027 and beyond.   This consultation provides a vital platform for aligning our local and regional priorities with the national budget, ensuring that our plans translate into real, tangible outcomes for the people we serve,” Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro said, in her opening message as RDC-7 chair.

This is the first time that the House of Representatives conducted such high-level consultation to align regional projects with the national budget in coordination with the DepDev and RDC-7, which are now working to institutionalize this process.

Governor Baricuatro stressed that the consultation went beyond reviewing figures and proposals, framing it instead as a decisive moment for the region’s long-term direction, underscoring the need to align all local and regional priorities with the national budget so that government planning would produce real and measurable gains for communities.

Regional line agencies presented their respective priority programs, activities, and projects, highlighting both persistent development challenges and emerging opportunities across Central Visayas.  Baricuatro called on the region’s lawmakers to help move these priority investments forward, from proposal to funding and full implementation.

“By speaking with one strong regional voice and rallying behind a clear set of priorities, we strengthen our case for national support,” adding that unity and preparedness would demonstrate Central Visayas’ resolve to pursue development interventions with the greatest impact on people’s lives, Baricuatro stated.

Among those present at the consultative meeting, with Baricuatro as RDC-7 chair, were Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado, RDC Co-Chairperson Melanie Ng, DEPDev Regional Director Jennifer Bretaña, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, Mandue City Mayor Jonkie Ouano, as well as Central Visayas lawmakers, including Cebu City North District Representative Edu Rama, who hosted the event.

According to DEPDev-7 regional director, Jennifer Bretana that the consultation forms part of the RDC’s continuing effort to deepen coordination between regional agencies and national policymakers, reinforcing collaborative planning as a foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth in Central Visayas. (Photos: Cebu Capitol PIO)

Modernizing Cebu’s Carbon Market while preserving its cultural heritage

CEBU CITY –Is it possible to modernize Cebu’s historic Carbon Market, yet preserving its cultural heritage? Timeline is December 2026.

This seems to be the question and thoughts of many Cebuanos including those directly affected from the redevelopment of the Carbon Market in Cebu, a massive project aimed to transform the Carbon Market into a world-class marketplace, promoting it as a tourist destination while preserving its cultural heritage.

“The Carbon Redevelopment project is a 50-year joint venture agreement between the Cebu City Government and Megawide Construction Corporation, with CEBU2World (C2W) as the private partner.  We are on schedule for completion of the Carbon Market Main Building by December 2026,” said Louie Ferrer, president, CEBU2World, in an exclusive media briefing   on February 6 at the Puso Village Café.

Ferrer said that guiding principle of the Carbon Market Redevelopment is to ensure that no vendor is left behind.  C2W continues to work closely with the Cebu City Government, particularly through the Office of the City Markets, which oversees vendor matters, listings, and market operations.

All vendor-related processes are undertaken jointly with the City and the project aims to provide vendors with safer, cleaner, and more dignified working conditions, while maintaining market rates consistent with the 2017 Market Code, a city ordinance enacted by the City Council. 

“Rental fees for vendors will remain at P8.50 per square meter until 2028, based on the 2017 Market Code, and all registered regular and ambulant vendors will be accommodated in the new facility.  The project is a joint venture, which means C2W-Megawide serves as the development partner responsible for construction and certain operational components, while Cebu City retains ownership, regulatory authority, and policy oversight,” Ferrer added.

Key features of the modern Carbon Market include a multi-level, mixed-use development with various sections, including food and beverage selections, handicrafts, and other special finds showcasing Cebu's products.  The project includes a transportation hub, a water taxi connecting to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and a parking facility and also features a waterfront activity plaza, a 24/7 Puso Village, and the Sto. Niño Chapel and Park, Ferrer shared.

CEBU2World Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, Jynx Chanjueco presented the progress of the Carbon Market redevelopment project at the media briefing and with vendors in its past and recent consultations, showcasing proposed layouts and facilities using virtual reality (VR) technology.

Chanjueco bared that construction is progressing steadily through the use of precast technology, a modern building method that enables faster, more efficient, and more controlled construction compared to traditional approaches.  This significantly shortens timelines while ensuring consistency, durability, and safety, critical requirements for a major public infrastructure project such as Carbon Market.

He said that the design is rooted in Cebu’s Identity with the architectural design of the Carbon Redevelopment has been carefully developed to reflect Cebuano heritage and identity. Key design elements include: Black accents, referencing carbon or coal, in recognition of the market’s historic roots; and Terracotta tones and façade accents, inspired by materials commonly found in Bahay na Bato and other heritage structures.

“These elements ensure that modernization is not at the expense of character, but instead remains grounded in local history and context,” Chanjueco said.

Controversies, concerns and challenges

Ferrer acknowledged that any project of this caliber always has controversies and challenges in implementation.  For one, some vendors and groups have expressed concerns about the project's impact on their livelihoods and the potential for privatization, while some vendors oppose the project, citing potential privatization and increased fees.

“We have addressed these with series of consultations with the registered, ambulant and all types of vendors at the market and explained to them the project through briefings and detailed presentations and that all vendor concerns are being addressed,” Ferrer told the media.

He said that C2W is committed to relocating vendors to safer, cleaner, and more dignified working conditions.  Construction is ongoing, with some vendors already relocated to interim facilities to date.

The other issue is the legal challenge posed by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña who has petitioned the Supreme Court to halt the project, citing alleged financial losses and lack of transparency, which is still pending at the Supreme Court as of this writing.

However, Ferrer is very optimistic and remains committed to the project, citing transparency and lawful agreements.  He cited Mayor Nestor Archival’s stance on the project, saying that his administration is pushing forward with the Carbon Market redevelopment project, despite ongoing controversies and legal challenges.

“My administration is focused on delivering development projects, including the Carbon Market redevelopment, while addressing vendor concerns and navigating legal challenges,” Archival was quoted in one of his press conferences at City Hall.  He said that he’s acting in the best interest of the city and its people, not just vendors and the project will modernize the market and improve vendor conditions, Archival emphasized. (Photos: C2W/MBCNewman/Google Images)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Baricuatro faces death threat, amid suspension of a local mayor

CEBU CITY—Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro, in her Facebook post on February 6 said she is currently facing serious death threats and intelligence reports indicate that a killer from Mindanao has been paid million to kill her, allegedly born out of the claims circulating from the opposition alleging that she abandoned or failed to assist Minglanilla Mayor Rajiv Enad following his suspension.

“What I am facing today is not only Basyang but also a demolition job. I never wanted to “patol” these FB post against me, but when it concerns one of my top-performing mayors, I feel the need to speak up for transparency and accountability.  I have nothing to do with the suspension of Mayor Rajiv of Minglanilla. I have no motive to do so. Such actions would only disrupt governance,” Baricuatro wrote on her post.

Baricuatro categorically denies the claims, stressing that such narratives are misleading and disregard the boundaries of law, due process, and good governance.  The governor emphasized that she had no involvement whatsoever in the suspension and no motive to instigate such action, noting that Mayor Enad is one of Cebu’s top-performing local chief executives.

The suspension of Mayor Enad is an administrative action carried out by the Office of the Ombudsman, an independent constitutional body, and is governed by existing laws and established procedures.

Mayor Enad, along with other Minglanilla officials from the previous term, was suspended for one-year effective February 2 after being found guilty of oppression and grave abuse of authority in connection with the alleged obstruction of business permits and safety plans that had already been approved by national experts.

As Governor of Cebu, Baricuatro said she is duty-bound to respect the rule of law and the independence of legal and administrative processes. Intervening or exerting influence in an ongoing disciplinary case would be improper and would undermine the principles of accountability and fairness expected of public officials.

“I have nothing to do with the suspension of Mayor Rajiv of Minglanilla. Such actions would only disrupt governance.   Leadership is not about political convenience or selective intervention.  It is about upholding the law, even when it is difficult, and ensuring that due process is respected by all regardless of position or affiliation,” Baricuatro emphasized.

The governor told the media that the allegations being circulated online appear to be part of a broader political tactic aimed at sowing division among mayors and destabilizing local governance in the province.  She urged the public and local officials not to be swayed by what she described as “unfounded whispers” and misinformation spreading on social media.

She called on local chief executives to remain united and not allow rumors to derail governance efforts and reiterated that her administration remains focused on its constitutional mandate-- ensuring stability in local governance, continuity of public services, and strict adherence to legal frameworks.

Portraying respect for due process as abandonment, she said, is a deliberate distortion meant to politicize a legal matter. “The success of the mayors is the success of Cebu,” expressing her commitment to continued cooperation between the Provincial Government and local governments across the province.(Photos: Pam Baricuatro. FB)