Cebu Governor Institutionalizes Poverty Reduction Efforts Through New Executive Order
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has officially signed Executive Order 82, creating the Provincial Poverty Reduction Action Committee (PPRAC). This move aims to institutionalize the participation of civil society groups in local government planning and ensure that provincial initiatives are effectively aligned with broader regional development strategies.
Defining Committee Structure and Functions
During a press conference held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Governor Baricuatro explained that EO 82 clearly defines the composition, powers, and functions of the PPRAC. "The purpose of this is really to align and define the composition, powers, and functions of our Provincial Poverty Reduction Action Committee, and to align it as well with regional development so that the provincial and regional levels are in sync," she stated in a mix of Cebuano and English.
The governor emphasized that she has already instructed the creation of sectoral committees to ensure provincial programs are harmonized with regional-level efforts. This initiative is in line with guidelines issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC).
Composition and Leadership of the PPRAC
Under the provisions of EO 82, the PPRAC will be structured as follows:
- The committee will be chaired by the governor or her duly authorized representative.
- A vice chairperson will be elected from among accredited civil society organizations (CSOs).
- Members include key provincial officials, such as the Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, Social Welfare and Development Officer, Provincial Budget Officer, Health Officer, Agriculturist, Engineer, and Employment Service Officer.
- Additionally, five representatives from duly accredited CSOs and basic sectors will serve as members.
Mandate and Responsibilities
The PPRAC is established as the primary participatory and advisory body at the provincial level for poverty reduction. Its key responsibilities include:
- Participating in the formulation of the Provincial Development Plan and the Annual Investment Program.
- Recommending priority poverty reduction programs for inclusion in the provincial budget.
- Serving as an advisory body on poverty-related concerns.
- Monitoring the implementation of anti-poverty initiatives.
Furthermore, the committee is tasked with ensuring that provincial programs are aligned with national strategies and policies. It will also promote transparency, accountability, and social inclusion in provincial governance.
Operational Support and Implementation
The Provincial Planning and Development Office will serve as the secretariat of the PPRAC, providing technical, administrative, and logistical support to the committee. Executive Order 82 took effect immediately upon its signing on December 24, 2025, at the Provincial Capitol in Cebu.
Governor Baricuatro highlighted that the PPRAC will meet quarterly to identify priority programs aimed at addressing poverty and ensuring that provincial budgets respond to the needs of marginalized sectors. This structured approach is designed to enhance the effectiveness of poverty reduction efforts across Cebu province.
