Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro is leaving it to voters to decide whether her performance in office deserves another mandate in 2028, as more political figures emerge in discussions about the province’s next gubernatorial race.
Baricuatro said the growing number of personalities being linked to the race would give Cebuanos more options when choosing their next provincial leader.
“At least ang mga tao sa probinsiya have more options this time and naa silay choices kung kinsa ilang gusto pilion,” she told reporters.
She said voters would eventually assess her record and determine whether she had done enough to earn their support for another term.
The governor, however, emphasized that her motivation for entering public service was not to secure a political position but to serve the province.
“Gusto nako mo serbisyo sa katawhan,” she said.
“It is not about position, it’s about service,” she added.
Baricuatro did not categorically say whether she would seek reelection, reiterating that public service remained her priority as the 2028 elections approached.
Among those being mentioned as possible contenders for Cebu governor are former governor Gwendolyn Garcia, Ako Bisaya party-list Rep. Sonny Lagon, Cebu 5th District Rep. Duke Frasco and former Cebu 3rd District Rep. Pablo John “PJ” Garcia.
PJ Garcia has acknowledged that he is seriously considering a gubernatorial run, adding to speculation over who could challenge Baricuatro or seek to succeed her.
Reports have also linked Gwendolyn Garcia to a possible endorsement of Lagon, although PJ Garcia said he had not independently confirmed those reports.
Frasco has likewise been mentioned as a potential contender but has not formally announced a gubernatorial bid.
Meanwhile, Cebu Vice Gov. Glenn Soco has kept his focus on his current responsibilities rather than publicly discussing his political plans for the next elections.
Soco said his immediate priorities include continuing his public service and working on the approval of the provincial government’s 2027 budget.
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