Just days after Governor Pamela Baricuatro declared she was "ready for battle" following Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco's questioning of a proposed compromise settlement related to the tax obligations of Apo Land and Quarry Corp. (ALQC), the two officials crossed paths at a provincial tourism event on Friday, March 13, 2026.
A Tense Encounter at the Tourism Launch
The event, titled "Our Cebu! Pista sa Sugbo: Kasadya sa Cuarto Distrito," was a trade fair organized by the Cebu Provincial Government to promote tourism and local products from the Cebu 4th district, held at Robinsons Galleria Cebu. Governor Baricuatro arrived first at the venue, while Vice Governor Soco arrived shortly before the program began and quickly approached her to shake hands.
During his speech, the vice governor acknowledged and greeted the governor. However, Governor Baricuatro did not mention Vice Governor Soco in her own remarks, highlighting the lingering tension between them.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict stems from Vice Governor Soco's recent questioning of a proposed compromise agreement between the province and Apo Land and Quarry Corporation. This agreement would reduce a P1.218-billion tax assessment to just P211.56 million as a settlement, pending approval from the Provincial Board.
At a press conference on March 11, Governor Baricuatro criticized Vice Governor Soco, calling him a "hypocrite." She pointed out that he had previously supported a resolution approving a similar compromise settlement during the administration of former Governor Gwendolyn Garcia.
That earlier agreement involved Dolomite Mining Corp. (DMC), where the province reduced the company's P855.9 million tax assessment to approximately P56.31 million under a compromise deal approved by the Provincial Board.
Implications for Provincial Governance
This public clash underscores ongoing debates within the Cebu Provincial Government over tax policies and corporate obligations. The dispute raises questions about consistency in handling tax assessments and the transparency of compromise settlements with large corporations.
As both officials continue their duties, the situation may impact future decisions on economic and fiscal matters in the province, potentially affecting local businesses and revenue streams.
