Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has found herself at the center of a legal controversy after being accused of illegally wearing a Swat uniform in a social media post. The governor has strongly denied the allegations, claiming the controversial image was artificially generated and does not depict an authentic police uniform.
The Complaint and Accusations
The criminal complaint originated from Byron Garcia, brother of former governor Gwendolyn Garcia, whom Baricuatro defeated in the May 2025 elections. Garcia filed the complaint affidavit with the Cebu Provincial Prosecutor's Office, accusing Baricuatro of violating Article 179 of the law concerning Illegal Use of Uniforms or Insignia.
According to the complaint, Baricuatro posted a photo on her personal Facebook account on November 10, 2025, showing her wearing clothing bearing official Philippine National Police Swat markings, insignia, and patches. Garcia argued that these uniform elements are strictly regulated and intended only for legitimate, active PNP personnel, particularly those in Swat units.
The complainant asserted that because Baricuatro is not a member of the PNP, she has no authority to use or wear such attire. Furthermore, Garcia claimed the act was improper and might mislead the public into believing she has police affiliation or authority.
Governor's Defense and Explanation
In a statement issued on Saturday, November 22, Governor Baricuatro categorically denied the accusations. She clarified that the image was an AI-generated birthday gift sent to her by the Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO) following her November 9 birthday celebration.
The governor stated, The image is AI-generated and not a real photograph of me in any police uniform. The uniform shown is not even an authentic PH Swat uniform. She explained that her reposting of the image was not an official endorsement but rather a gesture of gratitude for the CPPO's birthday greetings.
The controversial image depicted Baricuatro wearing what appeared to be a Swat uniform and holding a rifle, standing in front of the Capitol building with five other Swat personnel. The photo included the official seals of both Cebu Province and the Cebu Police Provincial Office, along with text describing her as The People's Governor.
Political Context and Implications
Baricuatro described the complaint as a demolition tactic by political opponents seeking to discredit her administration. She affirmed her respect for laws governing uniform and insignia use and vowed to cooperate fully with any investigation.
I respect the law and proper insignia use, the governor stated. I will fully cooperate with due process. I remain devoted to serving Cebu and supporting our law enforcement partners.
The complaint first circulated on social media through the Facebook page Pastilan before being formally submitted to authorities. The case highlights the increasing political tensions in Cebu following the May 2025 elections that saw Baricuatro unseat the former governor from the Garcia political family.
As the investigation proceeds, both supporters and critics of the governor are closely watching how this case will develop and what impact it might have on the political landscape of Cebu province.
