Cebu continues to soar high as some local government units in the country wanted to replicate the success of the province in attracting investors.
“Cebu is not caught by the difficulties like Manila has right now. The political climate is commendable as well as the attitude of the Cebuanos and a governor who is committed and very hands-on,” says Jesus Estanislao, the president of Institute for Solidarity in Asia during the Public Governance Forum.
The forum chose Cebu as the only province in the country that investors should pour their investments into.
Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, together with Bunny Pages of Cebu Leads Foundation, made a video presentation showcasing the best of Cebu in the field of infrastructure, educational system, water, power, manpower among others.
Cebu province, considered the premiere province in the country, is among the four LGUs picked by ISA as attractive to investors. Other LGUs are San Fernando City, Pampanga, Tagaytay and Iloilo.
During the forum held at Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Manila, Garcia was congratulated by other mayors and governors, asking her how she managed to improve the province.
“We will replicate what you have done for Cebu,” says Oriental Mindoro Governor Arman Panaligan.
Garcia explained to the audience that in terms of distribution of projects, she is doing it without any political color.
“Our government (Cebu province) is working and will continue to work for its people. In Cebu, there’s a new way of doing things and we found hope. In Cebu, we choose not to be affected by the political bickering here in Manila and I would rather focus to do things that are important and lasting,” the governor said.
After the forum, a US-based company, the Seagate Global Advisors, said it will invest in Cebu, asking help from the governor what projects they can venture into.
“Can you imagine this company has so much money and they are now asking me what projects to venture into. This is something to look forward to in Cebu,” the governor said.
The ISA is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit institution that seeks to improve public governance through citizens’ participation in Asia. It also has a “network” of business corporations and civil society institutions committed to good governance.
Cebu, meanwhile, maintains its status as the number one province among 79 provinces in the country. — Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/LPM