By Junex Doronio
CEBU CITY — Vowing to lead with integrity, inclusivity, and transparency, Cebu Governor-elect Pam Baricuatro has issued a strong warning to outgoing Governor Gwen Garcia, saying a massive protest akin to the 1986 People Power Revolution could erupt if Garcia refuses to peacefully hand over the reins of the provincial government.
Baricuatro, a political newcomer, said she has received reports from grassroots supporters expressing frustration over Garcia’s alleged resistance to the transition process.
“I have no control if the people decide to rally or hold a people power in front of the Capitol,” Baricuatro said. “That’s what I’ve heard from the grassroots — if the turnover doesn’t happen, they say they’ll take action.”
The governor-elect earlier accused Garcia of stalling the transition by withholding key documents and cutting off communication with department heads.
Despite being an ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte, Baricuatro assured that she is ready to work with the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
She reiterated her commitment to good governance:
“On June 30, the service of a governor from the people and for the people will begin,” Baricuatro declared. “As the People’s Governor, I will begin a leadership rooted in inclusivity, transparency, and heart-led public service.”
Baricuatro’s transition team, led by lawyer Ed Lao, recently met with DILG Cebu Provincial Director Jesus Sastrillo Jr. on June 19, in line with Section 445 of the Local Government Code, which mandates that newly elected governors assume office at exactly noon on June 30.
Sastrillo confirmed, however, that no joint transition meetings have yet occurred with the outgoing Garcia administration.
Garcia, who has served multiple terms as governor since 2004 and as a congressional representative from 2013 to 2019, lost her reelection bid to Baricuatro by a wide margin: 1,107,924 votes to Garcia’s 765,051. – ia/PAN
