Abalos recognized in Cebu

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cabinet Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. received recognition from Cebu’s provincial and local leaders during his recent visit to the province, as officials commended his appointment to the Cabinet and his continued engagement with local government units.

The Cebu Provincial Government, under the leadership of Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, led by Vice Gov. Glenn Anthony Soco, joined the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) — Cebu Chapter, mayors from Cebu’s tri-cities, Cebu City, Mandaue City and Lapu-Lapu City, and the Liga ng Mga Barangay - Cebu Province Chapter, in honoring Abalos through formal resolutions and public tributes.

The resolutions cited Abalos’ appointment as Cabinet Secretary and his efforts to maintain close coordination with local governments, particularly in addressing concerns raised by communities and local officials.

The recognition took place during a thanksgiving lunch hosted by the LMP–Cebu Chapter, bringing together provincial, city and municipal leaders, including Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Philip Lo, Governor Baricuatro, Vice Governor Soco, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and mayors from across the province. While recognition from the Liga ng Mga Barangay — Cebu Province Chapter later took place during a special portion of their 3rd Quarter ABC Chapter Presidents Meeting through Barangay Provincial President Celestino Martinez III.  

The thanksgiving lunch also marked the appointment of two fellow Cebuanos to key national government positions. Local leaders congratulated Sec. Philip Lo on his appointment as Presidential Assistant for the Visayas and Usec. Atty. Bret Monsanto on his appointment as Undersecretary of the Office of the President - Office of the Cabinet Secretary.

In her remarks, Gov. Baricuatro described Abalos as a unifying figure among Cebu’s mayors, highlighting his role in fostering cooperation among local leaders despite political differences.

Vice Gov. Soco, meanwhile, recalled Abalos’ assistance to communities affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck northern Cebu in October 2025. He noted that Abalos personally extended financial assistance worth PHP 1,000,000 to affected Cebuanos using his own funds.

Beyond the recognition, the gathering underscored the importance of sustained coordination between national and local governments, particularly in responding to emergencies and advancing programs and services at the community level.

For Cebu’s local leaders, Abalos’ visit also served as an opportunity to strengthen ties with the national government and reaffirm a shared commitment to putting local concerns at the center of public service. (Contributed story)