Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro is now confronting a criminal complaint for alleged violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, linked to the ongoing renovation of the provincial governor's office. The complaint, filed by Byron Garcia, brother of former Governor Gwen Garcia, was lodged with the Office of the Ombudsman on Friday, December 5, 2025.
Allegations of Heritage Law Violations
The core of the accusation centers on an alleged breach of the National Heritage Act of 2009 (Republic Act 10066). Garcia's complaint asserts that Governor Baricuatro allocated P2,633,698.43 for renovation work that involved the removal of ceiling and roof walls without the necessary Heritage or Clearance permit from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
This is a critical issue because the Cebu Provincial Capitol is a declared National Historical Landmark. It earned this status in 2008, recognized for its Neoclassical and Art Deco architectural styles designed by Juan M. Arellano between 1937 and 1938. The law mandates the preservation of not just the building's structure but also its interior design, with strict limitations on any alterations.
NHCP Inspection and Provincial Defense
Coinciding with the complaint's filing, NHCP Chairman Regalado Trota Jose Jr., accompanied by Cebu Provincial Administrator Ace Durano, conducted an inspection of the renovation site within the governor's office on that same Friday, December 5.
Provincial officials have mounted a defense. Aldwin Empaces, the Assistant Provincial Administrator, explained that the Capitol building was already in a "dilapidated" state, necessitating reinforcement. He stated that the province had consulted with Dr. Jobers Bersales, a noted Cebu historian and heritage consultant, and is working on a conservation management plan.
Empaces further argued that the NHCP could not issue a clearance precisely because a formal conservation plan was still in development. Following their inspection, the NHCP reportedly provided recommendations for additional work to ensure the building's preservation.
Potential Consequences for the Governor
The complaint seeks serious penalties. Byron Garcia is confident that the allegations could be grounds for preventive suspension, removal, or dismissal from service if proven. The administrative charges listed include Grave Misconduct, Abuse of Authority, Conduct Unbecoming of a Public Official, and Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service.
The project, which underwent a public bidding process, was awarded to Ten Twenty Allied Developers, a company based in Talisay City. The situation places the renovation of a cherished historical landmark under intense legal and public scrutiny, balancing preservation concerns with necessary structural upgrades.
