In a fiery confrontation that has escalated tensions within Cebu's provincial government, Governor Pamela Baricuatro issued a stark warning to Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco, declaring, "I don't know what he's trying to do. You want to go to war? Because I'm prepared to go to war." This dramatic statement came in response to Soco's questioning of the executive department's plan to enter into a settlement with APO Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC), one of the largest cement manufacturers in Cebu.
Accusations of Hypocrisy and Special Treatment
Governor Baricuatro labeled Vice Governor Soco a hypocrite, citing his recent media statements regarding the proposed P211 million settlement. This amount represents a drastic reduction from an initial agreement of P1.2 billion. Baricuatro firmly rejected rumors that the administration has granted ALQC special treatment, emphasizing that the company's legal counsel first approached her with the settlement offer.
She clarified, "As far as I'm concerned, my conscience is clear. There's no back door negotiation," asserting the transparency of the process. The administration had previously opposed the significant reduction in APO's payment from P1.2 billion to P211 million, which covers a 16-year period where the local government was unable to collect extraction fees from private lands.
Historical Precedent and Legislative Scrutiny
Currently, provincial legislators are reviewing a proposed ordinance that would authorize the governor to enter into the settlement or compromise agreement with APO. This move recalls a 2023 decision by the 16th Sangguniang Panlalawigan, which granted former Governor Gwendolyn Garcia the authority to sign a compromise agreement with Dolomite Mining Corporation (DMC). In that case, the company's mining obligation was reduced from P856 million to P56 million, payable in installments.
Governor Baricuatro pointedly asked, "So, can you see the hypocrisy that's happening here?" highlighting perceived inconsistencies in the vice governor's stance compared to past actions. Attempts to seek comment from Vice Governor Soco have been made, but as of the latest updates, he has not responded to the governor's statements.
The dispute underscores ongoing challenges in local governance regarding resource management and fiscal accountability, with potential implications for Cebu's economic and environmental policies. As the provincial board deliberates, the outcome could set a precedent for future settlements involving mining and extraction fees in the region.
