Cebu candidate for guv defends position on Pasigarbo sa Sugbo

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu gubernatorial aspirant Pamela Baricuatro has clarified her position over the P200 million fund for Cebu Provincial Government’s Pasigarbo sa Sugbo, following the manifesto issued by League of Municipalities in the Philippines (LMP)-Cebu Chapter.

Baricuatro, in her social media account, responded to the said manifesto yesterday, November 22, saying her previous comment about the cultural event was to raise concerns about the public fund allocation for Pasigarbo.

“Such discussions are vital in ensuring transparency and accountability in government spending, particularly when it involves significant amounts like the 200 million pesos mentioned,” Baricutaro said.

She further stressed that labeling her as a “certain individual“ may imply that her concerns are being dismissed by the local officials.

In the manifesto signed by the 49 mayors of various towns and cities in Cebu Province, there was no mention of any name of a certain person who posted on social media questioning the expenditures for Pasigarbo, which prompted the LMP-Cebu to issue a manifesto of support for the said festival.

The mayors just referred to a “certain individual” whose post was described by LMP-Cebu as “irresponsible tactless and reprehensible remarks” that “ has not only cause an irreparable injurity to the reputation of the Province of Cebu , but it has besmirched the world-renowned Pasigarbo sa Sugbo as the Festival of all Festivals of the Proivnce which embodies the rich Cebuano culture and heritage”.

The said manifesto was issued following the social media post of Baricuatro on November 12 comparing the P125 million expenditure of the office of Vice President Sara Duterte and the P200 million fund for Pasigarbo.

Baricuatro said her concern is also shared by many who “prioritize responsible governance”.

She urged local leaders in the Province to “engage constructively with all viewpoints, including criticisms, to foster a more open dialogue about the management of public resources”.

“I commend the mayors for their commitment to the welfare of Cebuanos and the preservation of cultural heritage. However, I urge the league to consider how constructive criticism can complement their efforts rather than dismiss it outright” she said.

Baricuatro is running against incumbent governor Gwendolyn Garcia in next year’s gubernatorial race in Cebu. (CEBU NEWS)