Cebu Vice Governor Expresses Shock Over Governor's 'Hypocrite' Accusation in Mining Agreement Dispute
Cebu Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco has publicly expressed his profound shock and confusion following a statement from Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro that labeled him a hypocrite. The controversy centers on a compromise agreement involving the APO Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC), a matter that has sparked significant tension within the provincial government.
Soco Defends His Position on the Compromise Agreement Review
In a press conference held on March 12, 2026, Vice Governor Soco clarified his stance, emphasizing that his only intention was to ensure a thorough review of the proposed compromise settlement. "I was really shocked to hear that pronouncement, especially from our chief executive of the Province of Cebu, and the reason by which I was considered as a hypocrite. I do not understand because all I said during the press conference was that we will review the proposed compromised settlement," Soco stated. He further questioned why he was singled out by Governor Baricuatro, noting that the decision was a collective one made by the 17th Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board).
Historical Context and Current Review Process
Soco acknowledged his previous involvement as a member of the 16th Provincial Board, which approved a similar compromise agreement with the Dolomite Mining Corporation (DMC). This historical precedent is now being compared to the current situation with ALQC, which involves tax payment issues with the province. The Vice Governor highlighted that the current review process is ongoing, with documents related to the proposed agreement still under examination. "At present, the review of the documents for the proposed compromise agreement continues," he added, stressing that the Provincial Board was not consulted or involved in the discussions leading to the agreement.
Financial Implications and Lack of Consultation
The core of the disagreement lies in the financial terms of the compromise. Reports indicate that the payment from APO was reduced from 1.2 billion pesos to 211 million pesos, covering a span of 16 years. Soco raised concerns about this significant reduction, pointing out the lack of transparency and consultation. "I don't think there was anywhere in my statements where I said that a compromise settlement is not possible, but what I said is we need to review it because we do not know. We in the provincial board do not know what was agreed upon; we were not involved in the discussions. We were not consulted, so we have to presume regularity in the computations," he explained.
Call for Peace Amidst Political Tensions
Despite the strong accusations and implied aggression from Governor Baricuatro, Vice Governor Soco expressed hope for maintaining peace between the two branches of the provincial government. "Sometimes I do not understand—you are waging war against your Vice Governor or to the Provincial Board. Such strong statements can be considered as implied aggression to your provincial board, whose duty is to protect the interest of the province, including her," Soco remarked. He concluded with a plea for harmony, stating, "No war, peace," underscoring his desire to avoid further conflict and focus on collaborative governance.
