Vice Governor Glenn Soco Steps Up as Acting Governor of Cebu Province
Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco has officially assumed the role of acting governor for Cebu Province, serving in this capacity for a four-day period. This temporary leadership change is necessitated by the personal foreign travel of Governor Pamela Baricuatro to Japan, as confirmed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Cebu Province.
Official Confirmation and Timeline
In a letter dated Monday, April 6, 2026, DILG Cebu Province Director Jesus Robel Sastrillo Jr. verified that Soco is serving as governor through the operation of law during the governor's absence. The document states, "This pertains to the approved personal foreign travel of Hon. Pamela Baricuatro, Governor of the Province of Cebu, to Japan from April 4 to April 8, 2026." Soco will manage the province from Saturday, April 4, until Wednesday, April 8, ensuring uninterrupted governance.
Appointment of Acting Vice Governor
To maintain a full chain of command, the same DILG document designates 6th District Board Member Larenz Lagon as the acting vice governor. This appointment aligns with established protocols to guarantee seamless service delivery and provincial leadership while Governor Baricuatro is abroad. The DILG Cebu Province emphasized that these measures are standard procedures to uphold administrative continuity.
Previous Experience in Acting Capacity
This is not the first time Vice Governor Soco has stepped into the acting governor role. He previously served in this capacity when Governor Baricuatro led a three-day official mission to Fujian, China, from February 4 to 6. That delegation, comprising ten members, focused on business and health initiatives, including exploring the integration of Chinese alternative medicine into Cebu's healthcare system and studying waste-to-energy technologies for provincial waste management.
During that period, Soco oversaw provincial operations, which included monitoring Tropical Depression Basyang in collaboration with the Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. This involved addressing warnings of heavy rain and strong winds in Central Visayas, showcasing his ability to handle emergency situations while in charge.
Ensuring Provincial Stability
The temporary leadership adjustments underscore the importance of robust governance structures in Cebu Province. By adhering to legal protocols, the DILG ensures that public services and decision-making processes remain stable during the governor's absence. This system allows for effective management of both routine administrative tasks and potential crises, such as weather-related emergencies.
As Soco takes on his duties, residents can expect continuity in provincial affairs, with a focus on maintaining order and addressing any immediate needs that may arise. The appointment of Lagon as acting vice governor further supports this framework, providing additional oversight and assistance.
