Cebu Establishes Content Creators Council to Amplify Tourism and Public Information
The Cebu Provincial Government has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its communication strategies by launching the Cebu Content Creators Council (C4). This new initiative aims to strengthen tourism promotion and expand the reach of public information campaigns through digital platforms. Governor Pamela Baricuatro signed Executive Order (EO) 20 on March 25, 2026, creating the council to harness the power of digital storytellers in disseminating government programs and development initiatives.
Formal Approval and Strategic Objectives
EO 20 was officially approved during the Provincial Board's regular session on April 6, 2026. The order outlines several key objectives designed to leverage digital content for broader societal impact. Primarily, it seeks to boost tourism and investment promotion while providing support to micro, small, and medium enterprises. Additionally, the framework aims to enhance civic education on critical areas such as health, disaster resilience, and public safety through a digital-first approach.
Furthermore, the order ensures that government engagement with online personalities remains transparent and accountable, adhering to strict auditing and ethical requirements. This move is part of a broader effort to modernize public communication and foster greater community involvement.
Council Structure and Membership
The Cebu Content Creators Council will be chaired by Governor Baricuatro or her authorized representative, with the focal head of Sugbo News serving as vice chairperson. Key members include Provincial Tourism Office Head Rowena Lu Montecillo, Provincial Information Office Head Ainjelliz Orong, and the head of the Investments and Promotions Office. The council will also incorporate accredited new media practitioners from a pre-vetted pool, ensuring a diverse and skilled membership.
Accreditation Process and Media Relations
Under the new system, content creators will undergo a rigorous screening process based on criteria such as Cebu residency, verified identity, and adherence to disclosure standards. Applicants must have no record of fraud, harassment, or disinformation to qualify for accreditation. Once accredited, members may be invited to cover official Capitol events, though the order explicitly clarifies that this will not displace or restrict the access of traditional media, maintaining a balanced media landscape.
Oversight and Capacity Building
To ensure high standards, accredited creators will receive capacity-building support, including training on fact-checking and data privacy. A code of conduct, requiring truthfulness and the prompt correction of errors, will be adopted within 30 days of the council's establishment. Sugbo News, acting as the secretariat, will oversee compliance and perform annual assessments to ensure members disclose conflicts of interest and maintain professional standards, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence in digital storytelling.
