Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has defended funding for the Cebu People’s Action Center (CPAC), pushing back against a proposal from the Sanggunian Panlalawigan to cut the center’s budget.
She warned that removing support could weaken the province’s capacity to respond to emergencies and deliver essential services to communities.
In a Facebook post, Baricuatro described CPAC as “my baby,” highlighting its role in enhancing government responsiveness, particularly for vulnerable Cebuanos.
She noted that the center has become a key mechanism for mobilizing volunteers and coordinating aid during disasters.
The funding debate arose during deliberations on the proposed 2026 provincial budget, with CPAC facing potential defunding when the measure reaches its second reading on December 22.
The Office of the Governor initially proposed a P14-million allocation for CPAC, which has previously served as a frontline support body during calamities.
Baricuatro cited the center’s response during the recent 6.9-magnitude earthquake and Typhoon Tino, noting its involvement in rescue operations and the preparation and delivery of hot meals to evacuation centers.
“When calamities struck… CPAC stood at the front lines,” she said, adding that volunteers were able to reach barangays otherwise difficult to access.
Some Provincial Board members have questioned CPAC’s funding, arguing that it does not function as a regular office within the Capitol structure.
Board Member Celestino “Tining” Martinez III clarified that any changes to CPAC’s budget will be finalized only during the second reading of the proposed provincial budget.
Despite the pushback, Baricuatro stressed that cutting funds would “slow our ability to serve,” particularly in mobilizing resources and personnel during emergencies.
She also contrasted the current debate with previous budgets, recalling the approval of a P25-billion plan that included hundreds of millions for Pasigarbo Sugbo, while noting the current P11.9-billion “People’s Budget” was crafted after consultations with residents.
“Transparency and accountability matter,” she said, adding that she intends to make public the votes of Provincial Board members on CPAC’s budget.
Addressing CPAC volunteers, Baricuatro assured them that political disagreements will not undermine their work. “No one can destroy the spirit of service that drives CPAC,” she said.
CPAC was created through Executive Order No. 5, Series of 2025, signed by Baricuatro on her first day in office.
The order established a 24/7 centralized response hub to serve as the public’s direct link to the provincial government. (SBA)
