ASEAN 2026: Baricuatro calls on Cebuanos to unite towards recovery, growth

MANDAUE CITY - Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro on Tuesday called on her constituents to unite in recovery and growth as the province hosts key meetings for the ASEAN 2026. 

“As we welcome the ASEAN Tourism Forum and host our ASEAN neighbors, I call on every Cebuano to unite around recovery and growth,” Baricuatro said in a statement. 

“Let us not allow political matters or gatherings to destabilize our mission,” she added. 

Baricuatro said economic stability follows from stable governance and practical, people-centered policies, noting that the local government will push for measures that will support local businesses. 

“We will champion initiatives that support businesses, workers, and families, ensuring vibrant local economies where no Cebuano is left behind,” Baricuatro said. 

“What Cebu needs most is stability — stability that paves the way for rebuilding, renewal, and onward progress,” she added. 

She noted that Cebu had endured trials that tested the residents’ resilience, including the magnitude 6.9 earthquake, Typhoon Tino that struck the northern portion of the province, and the recent Binaliw landslide incident. 

“Our unwavering priority is clear: recovery in all its forms. We must rebuild our homes, our livelihoods, and our hope. Any drift toward political instability would threaten our recovery and the livelihoods of every Cebuano,” she said. 

She warned that in this era of rapid information, there is a flood of misinformation and attempts to undermine trust in governance.

“I urge every Cebuano to be discerning, to seek credible sources, and to verify facts before believing fake news and trolls. Our shared destiny is clear: Cebu back on its feet — stronger, fairer, and more resilient than ever,” she said.

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) and the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat) are taking place in Cebu this week. 

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Tourism Secretary Cristina Frasco will grace the ministerial meetings. —AOL, GMA Integrated News