Baricuatro’s team, DILG prepare transition efforts sans Garcia’s coordination

CEBU CITY -- The Transition Team of Governor-elect Pam Baricuatro (TTGPB) headed by Atty. Ed Lao met with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Cebu Provincial Director Dr. Jesus Sastrillo Jr. to align the preparations for the formal turnover of provincial leadership on June 30, 2025 at exactly 12:00 noon, despite the absence of formal coordination from the outgoing administration.

DILG-Cebu Provincial Director Jesus Sastrillo confirmed that no joint transition meeting has occurred with outgoing officials, however several department heads have begun submitting preliminary documents to comply with the turnover protocol.

Sastrillo also offered a secure digital platform for the smooth and secure exchange of transition documents between teams. Section 445 of the Local Government Code mandates all winning local officials to take their oath of office on June 30 at exactly 12:00 noon.

“We are doing everything within legal bounds to prepare for Governor Pam’s assumption on June 30. The people of Cebu deserve a stable and transparent government from Day One—and we will deliver,” Lao said.

In a meeting with the transition team and DILG-Cebu on June 19, Baricuatro’s transition team proposed some key activities in the run-up to the inauguration while the June 30 turnover program will be discussed further with DILG PD Sastrillo, including ceremonial proceedings for Governor-elect Pam Baricuatro’s assumption of office.

As of press time, the personal participation of outgoing Governor Gwendolyn Garcia in the June 30 inauguration remains unclear, according to the transition team.  However, Atty. Lao said that the (TTGPB) remains fully committed to a respectful and professional transition, with or without formal handover by the outgoing leadership.

National agencies including the DILG, Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and Commission on Audit (COA) have already been looped into the process to ensure that the assumption of office is well-supported and properly documented. The Transition Team reiterated its mission to establish a strong foundation of professionalism, public trust, and order as the new administration steps into office. 

Ruben Licera, Governor Baricuatro’s spokesperson, emphasized that the transition team has constantly been reminded of the governor’s public service values of transition that include the values of Professionalism, Transparency, and Accountability.

“Governor Pam has constantly reminded the transition team that our actions must reflect professionalism, transparency, inclusivity, and the highest standard of accountability. For Governor-Elect Baricuatro is not just about transferring documents—it’s about protecting the public’s interest and trust,” Licera said.

“Sa Hunyo 30, magsugod ang serbisyo sa usa ka gobernador nga gikan sa katawhan, ug para sa katawhan.  As the People’s Governor, I will officially begin my work of inclusive, transparent, and heart-led leadership for the people on the said date,” Baricuatro’s brief statement at the meeting, reaffirming her commitment to serve with integrity, unity, and humility. (Photos: Cebu Prov'l Media Affairs/Ruben Licera)