Former Lawmaker Defends Cebu Motorcade as Peaceful Protest During ASEAN Summit
Former congressman Mike Defensor has publicly defended a motorcade caravan held in Cebu, characterizing it as a peaceful expression of public dissent. In a Facebook post on Thursday, January 29, 2026, Defensor responded to concerns raised by local authorities regarding the event's timing during the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF).
Governor's Appeal for Calm Amid International Gathering
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro had earlier appealed to residents on Wednesday, January 28, urging them to refrain from participating in rallies and caravans while the province hosted the ATF. The governor emphasized the importance of maintaining order and security for international delegates visiting the region.
Despite this official request, Defensor described the motorcade as "tahimik, mapayapa, at malinaw ang mensahe" (quiet, peaceful, and clear in its message). He asserted that the activity was organized to denounce alleged corruption under the Marcos administration, abuse of power, and perceived obstruction of a third impeachment complaint.
Political Tensions Rise During High-Profile Event
The political friction emerges against a backdrop of heightened security measures and government calls for public cooperation during the ATF, which concluded on January 29. Defensor framed the motorcade not as an act of disorder but as a localized call for justice and accountability, seeking to distinguish it from more disruptive forms of protest.
Governor Baricuatro had warned against activities that could disrupt traffic and compromise the safety of international visitors. "It will really reflect on us as Cebuanos and as hosts," Baricuatro stated. "Mao na nga we are asking nga if there is any destabilization, do not get involved kay kani maka hasol ilabi na sa traffic. Unta nanghinaot ta nga peaceful lang ang atong Asean kay two days ra man sad ni." (That is why we are asking that if there is any destabilization, do not get involved because this is a hassle, especially regarding traffic. We hope for a peaceful ASEAN summit since it only lasts two days.)
Security Concerns and Economic Implications
The governor also issued a comprehensive list of "do’s and don’ts" for the summit, explicitly reminding the public to avoid participating in rallies, caravans, or noise barrages near summit venues. She emphasized that such activities strain security resources and negatively impact the smooth flow of the international event.
Baricuatro stressed that showcasing unity among Cebuanos is vital for attracting future investments and boosting tourism. She urged residents to remain responsible and welcoming to foreign delegates, highlighting the broader economic stakes involved in hosting successful international forums.
This clash between political expression and event security underscores the delicate balance local governments must maintain during high-profile gatherings, where domestic concerns intersect with international diplomacy and economic opportunities.
