CEBU Province is taking a major step toward recovery by earmarking P708.1 million to help rebuild northern Cebu. This initial funding is part of a massive three-year plan to repair the damage caused by the powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck on September 30, 2025.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro led a meeting on Friday, January 30, 2026, to outline how the Province and national agencies will tackle the P19.28 billion total cost of rebuilding the region.
Where the money is going
The Provincial Government’s P708.1 million contribution focuses on three main areas to get the local economy moving again:
Agriculture and Fisheries: P311 million to support farmers and fishermen.
Infrastructure: P254.1 million to repair 13 broken bridges.
Tourism: P143 million to revive popular travel spots.
Dennis Francis Pastor, head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, explained that the goal isn't just to fix things, but to "Build Back Better and Smarter." This ensures the province is stronger and more prepared for future disasters.
Assessing the damage
The recovery plan is based on a detailed assessment conducted late last year. Experts found that the earthquake caused P9.24 billion in physical damage to homes, schools, hospitals and farms.
Even more staggering is the economic impact. The earthquake led to P47.74 billion in losses because of disruptions to local businesses and services.
To fully recover, northern Cebu needs billions in funding across different sectors:
Social Sector (P10.13 billion): For housing, schools and health services.
Infrastructure (P2.83 billion): For roads, bridges and ports.
Productive Sector (P1.98 billion): For trade, industry and tourism.
Cross-cutting Sectors (P4.29 billion): For governance and protecting the environment.
A team effort for rebuilding
Cebu isn't doing this alone. National agencies have committed billions to ensure the project succeeds. The Department of Education is providing P6.03 billion, while the Department of Public Works and Highways has pledged P4.37 billion for roads and bridges. Other support comes from the housing department and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
Local leaders, including the mayors of Bogo City, Borbon, Daanbantayan and San Remigio, joined the meeting to coordinate these efforts.
Focus on students and schools
One of the most urgent priorities is getting children back into safe classrooms. The Province plans to build 269 Temporary Learning Shelters across 34 towns. These temporary schools can be finished in a month, ensuring they are ready for the June school opening.
At the same time, the Province will build new, permanent classrooms designed to be "climate-proof" to withstand future weather and geological events.
"These efforts show our commitment to restoring safe, resilient, and modern learning environments for thousands of Cebuano students," Governor Baricuatro said.
As the three-year plan begins, the focus remains on turning these pledged billions into real-world repairs that will bring stability and safety back to the families of northern Cebu. (CDF)