Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has publicly come to the defense of Senator Imee Marcos following online backlash concerning an apparent violation of the dress code at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City.
A Call for Understanding and Hospitality
In a Facebook post published on Sunday, January 11, 2026, Governor Baricuatro appealed for compassion and a welcoming attitude towards visitors to the province. The governor emphasized that everyone is learning and occasional mistakes can happen, especially for public officials who depend on their protocol teams for guidance.
Baricuatro confirmed she had a meeting with Senator Marcos earlier that day and even shared a photograph from their encounter. During their discussion, Marcos informed the governor of her plans to attend upcoming Sinulog festivities.
The governor took partial responsibility for the incident, stating that she herself had forgotten to remind the senator to avoid wearing sleeveless attire to the sacred site, calling this oversight her own "mistake."
Highlighting a Productive Partnership and Advocacy
Beyond addressing the immediate controversy, Governor Baricuatro used the opportunity to highlight her productive working relationship with the senator. She pointed to their collaborative efforts on food security initiatives and praised Marcos for being a steadfast advocate for Cebu's interests within the Senate.
Baricuatro attributed this strong partnership to their long-standing friendship and shared commitment to various advocacy causes important to the province.
Embracing the True Spirit of Sinulog
In her concluding remarks, the governor made a heartfelt plea to her fellow Cebuanos. She urged them not to be quick to judge visitors and instead to embody the core values of the Sinulog celebration: kindness, generosity, and hospitality.
She assured all guests that they are welcome in Cebu, provided they show respect for local traditions and cultural sensitivities. This statement serves as both a defense of a political ally and a reminder of the province's famed welcoming spirit during its grandest festival.
