Baricuatro calls on Cebuano for a meaningful Holy Week observance

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro called on all Cebuanos and encouraged everyone to turn the Holy Week observance into a time for prayer, family bonding, and spiritual renewal.

“It’s a religious and spiritual practice.  Let’s just enjoy the Holy Week, the days off, make time for church and make time with the family,” Baricuatro said during her regular weekly press conference, sharing that she’s going home to her roots in Pinamungahan town and visit several churches in Southern Cebu and urging the public to reflect, repent and forgive.

On her trip back home, she was seen buying ingredients for “binignit” at the local market shortly after her arrival. The governor personally picked out the ingredients for the traditional Lenten delicacy, a gesture that spoke of her simplicity and her enduring ties to her hometown. 

She was warmly received by residents who were likewise preparing for the solemn observance, and in true Filipino tradition, the occasion highlights the significance of sharing home-cooked meals with family during the Lenten season, a time for reflection, prayer and bonding.

Baricuatro inspects the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT)

Prior to Baricuatro’s trip to Pinamungahan on April1, she inspected the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT) and directed the management for smooth Holy Week trips for travelers, to ensure that passengers bound for the northern part of the province experience a comfortable and orderly trip.

Jason Maceren, manager of the CNBT told media that the governor specifically ordered that passengers traveling north be accommodated in an orderly and comfortable manner, he said that the terminal had implemented several measures to ease the burden on travelers, including free drinking water, free use of restrooms, the addition of six portalets, a cooling system, and extra chairs to make waiting more comfortable.

Free rides have also been offered, prioritizing persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, and those traveling with children until April 2.  The governor also increased the supply of bottled water distributed at the CNBT to 4,500 pieces on Wednesday, prior to April1, some 2,500 bottles were given out to travelers.

Maceren advised the public to keep hydrated and to offer prayers for a safe trip, adding that the earlier they travel, the better.  The bus terminal remains open 24 hours a day to accommodate the surge of passengers during the Lenten season, he added. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Baricuatro calls on multi-sector partnerships, solutions to Cebu’s waste problem

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro called on a multi-sector solution to the mounting waste problem of the Province that take its toll on its waste management efforts, acknowledging its inability to solve the problem alone.

Baricuatro issued this call at the launch of the “Understanding Choices Series” a new initiative that aims to tackle pressing issues through collaboration and partnerships with the private sector, civil society and the academe, on March 19 at the Marco Plaza Hotel, with the first leg of the series called “Cebu’s Waste Dilemma and Potential Solution-Interventions.”

“We need you. The government cannot do this alone and we look forward to collaboration, partnerships, and engagement that will result from this event,” Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano appealed to the attendees that included Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, members of the Provincial Board and mayors from various towns and cities of the province.

Durano echoed the governor’s policy of adopting a multi-sectoral approach to governance in addressing Cebu’s key issues, particularly solid waste management, which requires expertise and participation beyond the halls of the Capitol.

The “Understanding Choices Series” with its first leg on waste management and solutions, aims to assess ongoing initiatives, identify gaps, and craft evidence-based solutions to the province’s worsening garbage problem, Durano said.

Elizar Sabinay Jr. of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) bared that similar sessions or summits will be held in the coming months, including Climate Action and Flood-Resilient Cebu in April, People in Governance in May, and the Cebu Education Summit in June.

“This is Cebu moving forward.  It will be science-based; it will be evidence-based; it will be based on consultations, participations, and collaborations not just with local government units but also with multi-stakeholders,” Sabinay said.

Part of the first leg summit was an exhibit featuring local and international solid waste solution providers, waste management technologies and best practices from around the world. Baricuatro led the ribbon cutting ceremony with all the summit participants composed of local government officials, national line agencies, solid waste management advocates, and various solution providers.

“Understanding Choices Series: Cebu’s Waste Dilemma and Potential Solution-Interventions,” is expected to guide the provincial government’s policy direction and programs in addressing cross-sectoral challenges, including climate resilience, governance, and education. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

Baricuatro answers critics amid question on her political allegiance

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro told her critics that her leadership is beyond labels as they questioned her political allegiance as “not a true Duterte supporter,” saying that her critics view reflects a shallow and overly simplistic view of public service one that reduces leadership to slogans, personalities, and performative loyalty rather than substance, governance, and results.

“In a political climate where noise often outweighs nuance, such accusations miss the larger and more important truth-- Governor Pam’s record speaks louder than any label imposed by critics. She has consistently demonstrated congruence through action, not theatrics,” said a close supporter of Baricuatro.

Support for former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration should not be measured by constant public declarations or blind allegiance, but by alignment with the principles that defined his governance decisiveness, discipline, infrastructure development, public order, and service delivery, Baricuatro’s added.

It can be seen from the very first day of office that Baricuatro prioritized governance that is pragmatic, results-oriented, and responsive to the needs of the people. These are hallmarks of the Duterte era.  Her emphasis on infrastructure, local economic resilience, public safety, and intergovernmental coordination mirrors the administration’s push for strong local executives who govern with independence while supporting national objectives. This is not quiet opposition it is mature governance, her allies argued.

Critics often confuse independence with disloyalty. The Governor ability to work across political lines, engage with various national leaders, and assert the interests of her province should not be misconstrued as ideological betrayal. On the contrary, this reflects the very strength of leadership encouraged under the Duterte administration, that of local officials empowered to act in the best interest of their constituents without being shackled by factional politics, political observers stated.

Moreover, they said that true support is demonstrated during moments that require responsibility rather than rhetoric and Baricuatro has consistently upheld policies and initiatives that advance stability, development, and continuity—values that transcend administrations but were strongly emphasized during Duterte’s term. Her governance is rooted in institution-building, not personality politics.

It is also worth noting that the Duterte administration itself valued competence over compliance. Loyalty was never about constant affirmation; it was about delivering results. Governor Baricuatro’s leadership style—measured, firm, and focused—fits squarely within that framework.

Baricuatro’s supporters said that the question should not be whether Governor Pam fits a narrow definition of political loyalty, but whether she serves her people effectively. By that measure, attempts to discredit her as “not a true supporter” ring hollow.

Leadership is proven by outcomes, not hashtags. The governor said she has chosen the harder path, that of governing with substance, consistency, and integrity. (Photos: Pam Baricuatro FB)

 

Baricuatro now chairs RDC7, vows to push big-ticket infra

CEBU – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro now chairs the Regional Development Council (RDC-7) seen by many as her edge and added influence to advance major infrastructure projects in Cebu and Bohol.  

Her appointment as RDC7 chair sparked some discussions among the opposition and has drawn debate and skepticism from some quarters within the DDS community saying that she shouldn’t accept the appointment if she is a true DDS supporter.

“One important point: Malacañang is fully aware of my political affiliation. They appointed me anyway. This isn’t about them being partisan; it’s about what’s best for Cebu. If the DDS community sees partisan bias here, I ask you to judge by results and by the outcomes for our people, not by slogans,” Baricuatro wrote in her Facebook post.

She said that with her at the helm of RDC-7, her top priority infrastructure projects will be accelerated and made possible, including the Metro Cebu Expressway and Water security and other road diversion projects.

This is not about politics as usual. It’s about Cebu getting a unified, national-backed plan that speeds up real, tangible benefits for families—jobs, healthcare, roads, schools, and locally driven development, Baricuatro added.

“I am really committed to bring big programs and projects to Cebu,” she said at her regular media briefing on October 29 at the Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) where she inspected the facility's readiness ahead of the expected influx of passengers for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

Baricuatro points to some key initiatives already in motion such as the feasibility study for the Talisay–Naga Diversion Road that has been approved, a key project she wants completed within her term as governor and she plans to push for it in future RDC meetings.

She said that once this coastal road diversion is completed, this would ease traffic congestion along Cebu’s southern corridor passing through Talisay City, Minglanilla, and the City of Naga, providing motorists with an alternate route to and from southern Cebu.

Among her other prio
rities are water system projects, the Metro Cebu Expressway connecting the City of Naga in the south to Danao City in the north, and additional diversion roads across the province.

Baricuatro also recognized that her new role requires her to look beyond Cebu’s interests and work for the development of the entire Central Visayas region. “As committed, I am to deliver the best programs for Cebu, I will also do my best for the whole Region 7,” she stated.

Baricuatro is set to take her oath in November before the President in Malacañang where she plans to discuss the region’s infrastructure priorities with the chief executive. Her primary goal is to promote the welfare of Cebu and the region.

The RDC is the highest policy-making body in the region and serves as the counterpart of the DEPDev Board at the subnational level. It coordinates and directs economic and social development efforts, ensuring local initiatives align with national development goals. (Photos: DepDev-FB)

 

Baricuatro shares Cebu’s industrial growth vision

CEBU— Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro shared Cebu’s industrial growth vision to a group of stakeholders, various industry players and guests at the Cebu Industrial Summit on October 29 at Oakridge Pavilion, Oakridge Business Center in Mandaue City, hosted by the Aboitiz Economic Estates.

“Cebu today stands on solid ground. We may no longer be the country’s largest provincial economy, but we remain one of its strongest — a hub of trade, manufacturing, creativity, and innovation and more importantly, we are a province united by purpose, ready to transform our growth into something more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient,” said Baricuatro in her keynote message at the Summit.

To make this vision real, Baricuatro bared that Cebu is pursuing a new blueprint for industrial growth, one that combines strong infrastructure, sustainable innovation, and people-centered development.  Guided by its Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP), which is currently being updated, Cebu envisions that by 2035, the Province of Cebu will achieve balanced and inclusive growth.

Baricuatro added that secondary growth centers such as Danao City and Naga City make up the Metro Cebu corridor that will support industrial expansion in the area with adequate land and infrastructure for businesses and workers to back the existing north industrial corridors from Consolacion to Carmen.

Bogo City, San Remegio, Medellin, and Daanbantayan for the Northeast Corridor, with its vast lands, is ideal for development of renewable energy like Acciona’s 140-Megawatt solar farm.  Toledo City, Balamban and Pinamugajan for the West corridor will continue developing medium to heavy industries, integrated with neighboring corridors and the expanding Metro Cebu, the governor shared.

Baricuatro went on that Talisay City to Carcar on the other hand, focus on being an industrial corridor for the Southeast area while Bantayan and Camotes corridors will strengthen poultry and livestock production, and the Southwest corridors will sustain and diversify tourism, showcasing Cebu’s natural beauty, heritage, and culture.

Baricuatro describes Cebu’s blueprint a poly-centric development approach, with industrial corridors spreading progress and opportunities. She outlines her promise to ensure progress from urban centers to rural areas, emphasizing people, transparency, and collaboration as core principles.

Cebu is highlighted as a strong provincial economy, a hub of trade, manufacturing, creativity, and innovation, united by a common purpose. The province will prioritize human development, allocating over 30% of the proposed budget to healthcare.Key infrastructure projects, supported by international partners, include the Metro Cebu sewerage system and the fourth Cebu mountain bridge.

The coastal road will improve access to the upcoming international port in Consolation, and the Metro Cebu expressway will connect the entire island, Baricuatro emphasizes measuring progress by international standards, focusing on human development and environmental stewardship. 

“We stress the importance of partnership among government, the private sector, academia, civil society, and communities. We can not do it alone. The future of Cebu is envisioned as smart, sustainable, and inclusive, requiring collaboration to achieve this vision,” Baricuatro calls for working hand in hand to make Cebu a model of industrial excellence and human-centered growth.

The governor believes Cebu's story is just beginning anew, with the talent, drive, geography, and heart to lead in values and resilience. (Photos: MBCNewman & Capitol PIO FB)

Baricuatro welcomes launching of Unified 911 in Cebu

CEBU—Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro welcomed the launching of the first Regional Command Center System of the new Unified 911 on October 25, at the PLDT-Jones Office in Cebu City, highlighting the significance of the Unified 911 system describing it as a symbol of coordination and preparedness.

“As Governor, I welcome this initiative, reminding everyone of the promise that someone will always answer the call for help,” Baricuatro said.  The Unified 911 system is described as a means to ensure faster response, clear communication, and a stronger connection between front liners, LGU, and the people, she added.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), with its attached agencies, launched the modernized Unified 911 system in September 2025 at the National Command Center (NCC), temporarily housed at the PLDT Building in Sampaloc, Manila.

As part of its nationwide rollout, Regional and Satellite Command Centers will be established across the country to make emergency services more responsive and language-inclusive. The first Visayas Regional Command Center, located at the PLDT-Jones Office in Cebu City, marks a major milestone in enhancing the government’s capacity to deliver fast, coordinated, and lifesaving emergency response services.

Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) director Jesus Fernandez described the launching as a wonderful moment for public safety and emergency preparedness in Cebu and the entire Visayas region.  The unified 911, Cebu satellite command center is more than just a center of operations. This facility represents the future of emergency management that is more connected, efficient and resilient, Fernandez said in his message at the event.

“It aligns Cebu with global standards for rapid, coordinated and effective crisis intervention. The integration of police, fire, medical and rescue services under one unified system will definitely reduce response time and ensure that resources are deployed faster smarter,” Fernandez added.

PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez also emphasized the importance of the unified 911 Cebu satellite command center for public safety and emergency preparedness in Cebu and the entire Visayas region.

“The facility is described as a future-oriented emergency management system that is more connected, efficient, and resilient, aligning with global standards for rapid crisis intervention. The integration of police, fire, medical, and rescue services under one unified system is expected to reduce response times and ensure smarter deployment of resources,” Nartatez explained, highlighting the significance of the center in ensuring faster and more effective emergency response.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla on the other hand, outlined the next steps, including the implementation of 911 services, vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks.

“The vision includes the deployment of long-range drones for 24/7 patrols in various cities, including Metro Manila, Cebu, and others.”  He also bared future plans and technological advancements including the introduction of Sky Net, which features long-range drones patrolling the skies.

The drones will be operational 24/7, seven days a week, and will respond quickly to 911 calls. The drones will take photos and ensure the safety of the public, marking a significant technological advancement.  This initiative is presented as a corruption-free system aimed at benefiting the entire Philippines, Remulla said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

Capitol allocates P913M budget for “Kumbati Cebu”, post-earthquake recovery program

CEBU—The Provincial Government allocated at least P913M for its post-earthquake recovery and rehabilitation efforts for Northern Cebu dubbed as “Kumbati Cebu Program” with ₱542 million coming from the unutilized trust fund for disaster from 2020 to 2025 while the ₱371 million was allotted for this year’s Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (PDRRMF), that was approved on October 22 during the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Meeting.

Cebu governor Pam Baricuatro urged the PDDRMO to prioritize the rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads and bridges in areas where the September 30 earthquake hit the most, especially the Tabogon and Borbon towns. Under the Cebu Kumbati investment plan, ₱238 million will be used to restore and rehabilitate roads and bridges.

Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces said that Capitol is working closely with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to identify and prioritize infrastructure in need of repair or reconstruction.

 “Mao nay nakaayo sa atong administration karon. Kay maayo man ang atong coordination sa ubang agencies, ma-prioritize ang unsa gyuy unahon para mabalik ang services,” Empaces said. (This is the beauty of this administration, there is a closer coordination with other government agencies for its rehab and rebuilding efforts.)

Some P29M was for agricultural recovery efforts with ₱15M earmarked to support livestock, poultry production and farm housing rehabilitation.  In addition to the rehabilitation fund, Capitol also received ₱134M in cash donations, including ₱50M from the Office of the President (OP), of which ₱111M was used for relief operations, while the remaining ₱23 million will fund continuing rehabilitation efforts.

The PDRRMO has lined up projects to strengthen the entire province’s disaster mitigation, prevention, preparedness, and emergency response that include the P49M for food, non-food supplies and hygiene Kits.

Mobile Kitchen with P51M; rescue supplies, gears and drones with P14M; PDRRMO command center equipment and furnishing – ₱14 million; Sea ambulance – ₱50 million; Mobile clinics, ambulances, and emergency vehicles – ₱64.2 million.

Other budgets include fire extinguishers and hoses, rescue boats, and water supply equipment – ₱4.3 million; Rehabilitation of buildings and facilities at the Capitol compound – ₱6 million; and Environmental supplies and other disaster-related activities – ₱1.3 million.

According to Empaces, the Provincial Rehabilitation and Recovery Council (PRRC), serves as the central coordinating and policy body of the Kumbati Cebu framework, chaired by Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, with the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev-7) as secretariat. The council already approved Kumbati Cebu’s rebuilding programs and projects.

The council also includes Capitol department heads, key national agencies such as DPWH, DSWD, DOH, DTI, and OCD, along with representatives from the private sector to ensure transparent and responsive rehabilitation efforts. (Photos: Capitol PIO)