WITH just 15 days left before her term officially begins, Gov.-elect Pamela Baricuatro has secured support from local medical professionals and business leaders for her campaign promise to improve the province’s healthcare system and bring economic opportunities to her constituents.
Baricuatro is particularly focused on creating more job opportunities for Cebuanos through job generation and training in the information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) sector.
Last June 9, 2025, Baricuatro began a series of economic briefing sessions, engaging with leaders from Cebu’s digital, business, maritime and international development sectors.
On Friday, June 13, during her visit to the Pinamungajan District Hospital in midwestern Cebu, Baricuatro lamented the severe lack of medical personnel, including doctors and nurses, needed to provide services to thousands of patients in the area.
On Saturday, June 14, Baricuatro met with doctors who participated in the Cebu Cancer Coalition meeting held at the City Sports Club Cebu.
Healthcare focus
Baricuatro expressed deep concern over the hospital’s condition, emphasizing that the issue stems from systemic deficiencies rather than a lack of dedication from its staff. During her recent visit, the governor-elect extended gratitude to the healthcare workers — doctors, nurses and administrative staff — who continue to provide services despite the difficult circumstances.
Pinamungajan District Hospital, intended to serve approximately 75,000 residents, is currently facing significant challenges due to a dire lack of resources. Addressing healthcare professionals across Cebu province, Baricuatro appealed for their continued patience and cooperation.
Baricuatro also met with members of the Cebu Medical Society (CMS) on Thursday, June 12, where discussions centered on ways to rehabilitate Cebu’s healthcare services.
In her meeting with members of the Cebu Cancer Coalition, the governor-elect emphasized that the doctors’ “wisdom, heart and collaboration” are vital to improving Cebu’s healthcare system, especially for patients needing specialized care.
“It is a great honor and privilege to join medical professionals who sincerely serve Cebuanos battling cancer,” Baricuatro said. She reiterated that hospital and healthcare services remain a top priority for the incoming administration.
Economic progress initiatives
Baricuatro met with the executive officer of the board of trustees of CIB.O (Cebu ICT-BPM Organization), emphasizing the importance of partnership in her goal of transforming the province into a premier hub for innovation and digital excellence.
According to Ace Durano, Baricuatro’s consultant for Economic Development, in a post on June 9, CIB.O and its members have vowed to provide training and job opportunities for Cebuano constituents.
Baricuatro’s campaign promise includes bringing livelihood opportunities closer to every Cebuano through inclusive, localized and skills-based employment.
Baricuatro also met with representatives from various shipyard associations, aiming to develop Cebu’s maritime, shipbuilding and repair sector. She envisions a more resilient maritime economy anchored on collaboration, innovation and inclusive progress.
She also held a discussion with representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) on June 9, centered on ongoing and upcoming infrastructure projects aimed at improving mobility, logistics and sustainable urban development.
“These initiatives reflect Jica’s enduring commitment to supporting Cebu’s progress through innovation, resilience and strategic planning,” Baricuatro remarked.
Baricuatro won the Cebu gubernatorial race in the May 12 midterm election, unseating five-term Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia. She will officially assume office on June 30. / EHP