In a notable display of professionalism, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco came together on Friday, March 13, 2026, to inaugurate a significant tourism exhibition. This event marked their first joint appearance since a public disagreement over tax policies just days earlier, yet both officials maintained a cordial and focused atmosphere throughout the proceedings.
A Professional Reunion Amidst Political Tensions
The reunion took place at Robinsons Galleria Cebu, where the two top provincial officials launched "Our Cebu! Pista sa Sugbo: Kasadya sa Cuarto Distrito." This provincial trade fair is designed to highlight food products, handicrafts, and tourism offerings from northern Cebu municipalities, including Bogo City, Daanbantayan, and Bantayan. Upon arrival, Vice Governor Soco approached Governor Baricuatro to shake hands, and although they were seated with one chair between them, their interactions remained strictly professional and respectful.
Speeches Focused on Unity and Progress
During his six-minute address, Vice Governor Soco directly acknowledged Governor Baricuatro's contributions, stating, "To our Governor Pamela Baricuatro... congratulations. Thank you for giving attention to our businesses, our culture, our history, and our Cebu." He also praised the event's rebranding from "R'Cebu" to "Our Cebu," emphasizing that this change better reflects Cebuano identity and community spirit.
In her four-minute speech, Governor Baricuatro kept the focus on provincial initiatives, greeting attendees broadly as "fellow public servants" and introducing the new "Cebu Travel Review Form." This tool is intended for local and international tourists to provide feedback, thereby helping to enhance tourism services and overall visitor experience in the region.
Background of Recent Friction
The event followed a heated public exchange on March 11, where Governor Baricuatro had labeled Vice Governor Soco a "hypocrite" in relation to a proposed compromise agreement with Apo Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC). This deal would reduce the company's tax assessment from P1.218 billion to P211.56 million. Baricuatro defended her position by pointing out that Soco had previously supported a similar tax reduction for another firm under the previous administration, highlighting ongoing political tensions over fiscal policies.
Event Success and Community Impact
Despite the underlying political discord, the launch of the "Our Cebu!" trade fair proceeded smoothly, successfully shifting the spotlight to Cebu's local entrepreneurs and their offerings. The fair, which runs until Sunday, March 15, provides residents and visitors with an opportunity to explore and support a wide range of food products and handicrafts from the fourth district. This initiative underscores the province's commitment to boosting local economies and promoting cultural heritage, even in the face of internal disagreements.
Overall, the event demonstrated how public officials can prioritize community welfare and economic development over personal or political conflicts, setting a positive example for governance in the region.
