CEBU CITY — Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro delivered her first State of the Province Address exactly 60 days after taking office, focusing on key accomplishments in health care while addressing alleged issues from the previous administration. The four-word keyphrase “State of the Province” was central to her speech as she outlined her vision for Cebu’s future.
Opening with a candid reflection on past challenges, Baricuatro spoke of widespread irregularities and neglect that affected many communities. Without directly naming her predecessor, she described the situation as chaotic and damaging. “Chaotic. Damage. Hunger. These were what we encountered in many areas of Cebu. There are irregularities everywhere and it’s difficult to hear about them. But the people deserve to know the truth. Not from me alone, but from those who lived through it,” she said in the vernacular.
Voices from the Community Reveal Neglect
To support her claims, the governor presented video testimonials from residents—students, small business owners, and patients undergoing dialysis—who shared stories of seeking help but facing silence from the local government. Officials reported that these accounts represent only a fraction of the millions affected by the alleged neglect.
“That’s just a small part of the millions of Cebuanos affected due to the neglect of the provincial government. Let me be clear. These are not rumors. These are findings,” Baricuatro emphasized.
State of the Province: Dilapidated Hospitals and Financial Concerns
Baricuatro revealed that most of Cebu’s 16 provincial and district hospitals are in poor condition. Community members noted the accumulation of unpaid infrastructure bills and questionable financial practices, such as the issuance of checks without clear funding sources.
She further highlighted that some contractors were engaged without proper bidding procedures, raising concerns about transparency. “And worse? Contractors were asked to implement projects without proper bidding,” the governor stated.
While acknowledging Cebu’s reputation as one of the wealthiest provinces, Baricuatro insisted her remarks were not political attacks but a call for honesty. “This is not about grudge or politics. This is about truth—because the first step to real change is honesty. We cannot fix what we refuse to admit is broken. And I call out these irregularities not to shame anyone, but because real leadership means calling out underperformance when we see it,” she explained.
Facing Criticism with Resolve
Responding to critics and legal cases filed against her and her family, Baricuatro declared she would not be intimidated. She vowed to confront these challenges head-on while continuing to push forward programs benefiting Cebuanos.
“And to you, who believe that cases filed against me and my family are enough to shake me, you are mistaken. I will face them head on,” she said, addressing an unnamed individual.
Progress and Transparency Efforts
Baricuatro highlighted key achievements within her first two months. An audit of outstanding payables was completed, ensuring payments will only be made for legally mandated and properly delivered obligations. She also announced the launch of live streaming for bidding processes to enhance transparency in provincial procurement.
In health care, the governor proudly reported the hiring of 25 doctors and 160 nurses to serve Cebu’s provincial and district hospitals. Additionally, ₱48 million worth of free surgical and medical missions were conducted, the Provincial Health Board was reactivated, and ₱100 million was allocated for hospital operating expenses for September.
Baricuatro’s first State of the Province underscored her commitment to reform and progress, focusing on transparency, accountability, and improved health services for all Cebuanos.
For more news and updates on State of the Province, visit Filipinokami.com.
