As the year 2025 draws to a close, we revisit the most significant and impactful events that shaped Cebu and its neighboring provinces. From tragic crimes and political changes to devastating natural calamities, the past twelve months have left an indelible mark on the region.
A Year Marked by Tragedy and Crime
The year began with a horrific act of violence in Naga City on January 27. Carlo Camporedondo, 33, allegedly under the influence of illegal drugs, attacked and killed his wife and two minor children in Purok Kamanggahan, Barangay Lutac.
In June, a police officer lost his life in the line of duty. Police Patrolman Mark Gomer Ornopia of the Danao City Police Station was shot and killed on June 27 by a suspect who had seized a firearm from a security guard in Poblacion, Danao. The suspect shot Ornopia in the forehead as he responded to the incident.
Another shooting shocked the community of Argao on July 11. Mark Alphonus Villamora, the 21-year-old Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President, shot and killed 23-year-old Elmer Angelo Amarillo inside a restobar in Barangay Poblacion. Authorities identified a love triangle as the motive behind the shooting.
A bizarre and tragic accident occurred in Cebu City on April 16. A van carrying a coffin lost its brakes while descending Nivel Hills in Barangay Busay. The vehicle crashed into a store, and the impact ejected the body intended for a church service.
Political Shifts and Controversies
The political landscape of Cebu saw a historic change in May. Pamela Baricuatro was proclaimed the province's second female governor after securing over 1.1 million votes in the May 13 elections. Former Governor Gwen Garcia received 765,051 votes.
A major controversy unfolded in September when a tarpaulin for a road construction project was discovered by trail riders in Barangay Manipis, Talisay City. The viral social media post sparked allegations of a "ghost project." The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) clarified that the project was not fictitious but had merely been suspended.
This was followed by a high-profile arrest in December. Controversial contractor Cezarah 'Sarah' Discaya, whose company has been linked to alleged ghost projects nationwide, was detained at the Lapu-Lapu City Jail on December 20. She faces graft charges originating from Digos City, Davao.
In March, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) 7 issued a public apology following a controversial law enforcement operation in Panglao, Bohol. A viral video showed five personnel assaulting a man carrying a knife who identified himself as a farmer.
Natural Disasters and Infrastructure Woes
Cebu was severely tested by nature's fury in the latter part of the year. On September 30, a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck, causing the most damage in the northern parts of the province. The estimated cost of destruction to infrastructure reached up to 2 billion pesos, and the quake claimed several lives.
The tragedy deepened on November 4 when Typhoon Tino triggered massive flash floods. The swelling of three major rivers in Cebu resulted in a staggering death toll of 111 people.
In a separate incident, 24-year-old Jeremy Bolingket from Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City, drowned on August 15 after being swept away by strong floodwaters.
Residents also faced man-made disruptions. In February, three condominium developments by Landtraders World Properties Corp. in Cebu City had their electricity cut off due to the developer's unpaid bills. The action affected 970 units across Grand San Marino Residences, Corinthians Residences, and Royal Garden Residences.
The year 2025 for Cebu was a complex tapestry of human drama, political transition, and formidable challenges posed by nature, leaving a year that will be remembered for its profound highs and devastating lows.
