Letter to the Editor — Noy Pabling: 'Gentle Lion' of Cebu politics

His name may not sound as formidable as the Osmeñas or the Cuencos of Cebu.

Pabling, as he was fondly called by his allies and detractors alike, was a native of Dumanjug, Cebu. Today is his birthday. He was born September 25, 1925. He was a legend by himself.

Pablo P. Garcia's career in public service spans a long way since he was elected Municipal Councilor, Dumanjug, Cebu (1967-1975). Elected Senior Provincial Board Member, Vice Governor (1969-1971). He served for two terms in the 3rd Congressional District of Cebu Province (1987-1995) before getting elected for three terms as Cebu Governor (1995-2004).

A Bar topnotcher with a rating of 91.5%, Garcia was a professional lecturer, Bar and CPA Reviewer and later served as Dean of the College of Law of Southwestern University in Cebu City. He was awarded Most Distinguished USC Alumnus in the Field of Legal Advocacy (1985). Chosen, President Emeritus of the IBP, IBP Cebu City Chapter (along with Chief Justice Marcelo B. Fernan) for distinguished service to the IBP both in local and national level. Recognized as the "Constitutionalist of the House" by legislators and was an awardee as one of the Ten Outstanding Congressman in the 8th and 9th Congress.

From the time of the first governor of the province named Julio Llorente who served in (1990-1901) up to 2004, the 23rd governor, Pablo Garcia has assumed office, there has never been an occasion when the stewardship of the province would directly pass from the father to the son or daughter.

Several Cebu families have hugged the political limelight aside from Garcia. The Osmeña, Cuenco, Abellana, Briones, Espina, Rama and Gullas families have all vaulted to the political firmament, some not only in the province but in the national level as well. But never was there a direct succession from a father, like the case of Governor Pablo Garcia to his daughter Governor Gwendolyn Garcia. No other political clan in the province has achieved the record.

In retrospect there were reasons for Gov. Pablo Garcia's victory and rise to power. Yet, paramount among these could be Garcia's mastery of the art of combat in politics. No one can say with certainly how he got possession of that gift. What should perhaps be of concern to the reader is the fact that this "gentle lion" of Cebu politics seem to have been touched by destiny and endowed both with charisma and great ability found in extraordinary men.

Noy Pabling, our best wishes for a happy birthday!

Mediong del Socorro
Newville, Mandaue City