Cebu Capitol Governor's Office Renovation Passes Inspection Without Violations
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has confirmed that no violations were detected during the inspection of the ongoing renovation work at her office in the east wing of the Cebu Provincial Capitol. This announcement comes as the project nears completion, with the governor expected to relocate to the newly refurbished space as early as next week.
Compliance with Historical Landmark Requirements
The renovation has been conducted in strict adherence to the regulations governing protected landmarks. The Capitol administration submitted detailed design documents to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) for approval prior to commencing work. The NHCP granted conceptual approval for the renovation plans back in December, ensuring that all modifications align with the preservation standards required for the site.
The Cebu Provincial Capitol building holds the distinguished status of a National Historical Landmark, a designation that mandates careful oversight of any structural or aesthetic changes. Governor Baricuatro emphasized that the renovation process has been transparent and compliant, with no issues raised during recent inspections.
Scope of Restoration and Office Allocation
The renovation project involved comprehensive restoration efforts within the governor's office suite. Key elements that have been meticulously restored include:
- The flooring or sawog, which has been repaired or replaced to enhance durability and aesthetics.
- The ceiling, which has undergone refurbishment to maintain the architectural integrity of the historical space.
- The paintwork, with a fresh coat applied to revitalize the office's appearance while preserving its historical character.
In addition to the governor's private office, the renovated area also includes dedicated space for Governor Baricuatro's staff, ensuring efficient workflow and accessibility. Meanwhile, the current temporary holding area used during the renovation will be repurposed. It is slated to become the new office for the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP-Cebu Chapter), optimizing the Capitol's available facilities for local governance functions.
Timeline and Anticipated Move
With the inspection cleared and restoration work largely finished, Governor Baricuatro is poised to move into her upgraded office next week. This transition marks a significant milestone in the Capitol's ongoing efforts to modernize its infrastructure while honoring its rich historical legacy. The project underscores the provincial government's commitment to maintaining public buildings that are both functional and respectful of their cultural heritage.