Durano backs scrapping of Pasigarbo, Suroy-Suroy

CEBU, Philippines — Former tourism secretary Ace Durano has thrown his support behind Governor-elect Pamela Baricuatro’s decision to scrap the popular tourism programs Pasigarbo sa Sugbo and Suroy-Suroy Sugbo, calling instead for “honest-to-goodness” destination development and stronger healthcare services in tourism hubs.

Recently appointed as Baricuatro’s special adviser for economic and political affairs, Durano criticized the outgoing administration’s tourism initiatives, claiming they prioritized personal interests over actual promotion of Cebu’s destinations.

“Ang nakita nako anang Suroy-Suroy, it was more on self-promotion rather than tourism promotion,” Durano said.

He emphasized that under the new administration, the focus would shift to developing facilities and services that encourage tourists to stay longer and spend more—ultimately generating more jobs for locals.

Durano noted that while Cebu’s top destinations like Oslob, Moalboal, and Mactan are already well-known, they lack the infrastructure needed to support long-term tourism.

“Unsaon man aron mudugay sila dira (tourism destinations)? Facilities gyud, services, unya ang usa gyud nga akong nakita kani jung health services, kaning emergency services,” he said.

He stressed the urgent need to upgrade emergency healthcare systems in tourist areas, especially for high-end visitors such as scuba divers who require reliable access to medical services.

Currently, patients in remote areas must still be transported to Cebu City—often delayed by traffic and limited emergency access.

Durano added that improving health services at both the provincial and barangay levels has long been a clamor from the public.

“Programa sa panglawas kay nakadungog nako ana way back 2022 nga dugay na gud na gipangandoy sa katawhan,” he said.

Baricuatro, who campaigned on a platform of “tinuod nga serbisyo” (genuine service), met with Durano ahead of her May 22 oathtaking. She emphasized unity and grassroots-driven governance as central to her administration.

“Lipay gyud ko nga magtinabangay ta isip mga Sugbuanon nga ang tuyo mao ang tinuod nga serbisyo,” Baricuatro said in a social media post.

Durano said he initially told Baricuatro that he didn’t need an official position to help but accepted the role after seeing her sincerity.

“Ang ako lang gud nga nagkagusto gud ko sa priorities ni Guv Pam. Mao ra jud na akong tumong ug tabang nga maabot jud na sa katawhan,” he shared.

He added that their team’s priority would be to ensure government policies and services reach the grassroots.

“Tinud-anay nga serbisyo nga katong mga dugay ng gipangandoy sa katawhan nga wa natagad mao na among e-prioritize,” Durano said.

Durano served as Tourism Secretary from 2004 to 2010 and was a three-term congressman of Cebu’s 5th District. He returned to Congress from 2013 to 2016. His reentry into provincial politics signals a shift in Cebu’s tourism and public service strategy.

Ahead of her formal assumption to office on June 30 noon, Baricuatro has already announced that she will discontinue the Pasigarbo and Suroy-Suroy programs.

 Pasigarbo sa Sugbo and Suroy-Suroy Sugbo are hallmark tourism programs under Garcia’s leadership, showcasing Cebu’s culture and destinations through festivals and organized tours.

The new leadership, however, believes it’s time for a more sustainable and community-driven approach.

With over 1.1 million votes behind her, Baricuatro has promised a fresh start—centered on healthcare, tourism infrastructure, and genuine public service.

Durano expressed full support for her vision: “I’m excited to work with you, Gov Pam! It’s an honor to be part of your journey in providing the Cebuanos services they truly deserve.” FPL (CEBU NEWS)