The Cebu Provincial Government has formalized a coordination body to guide future development initiatives in Camp Lapu-Lapu, the headquarters of the Visayas Command.
Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro signed Executive Order No. 31, Series of 2026, creating a Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG) tasked to oversee coordination efforts related to the proposed development framework for the military installation.
The order underscores the strategic role of Camp Lapu-Lapu, describing it as a key facility supporting national defense, disaster response, humanitarian assistance, and public safety operations in the Visayas.
It cited the provincial government’s recognition of the installation’s importance, stating that “the Provincial Government of Cebu recognizes the strategic importance of Camp Lapu-Lapu… as a vital military installation contributing to national defense, regional security, disaster response, humanitarian assistance, and public safety in the Visayas Region.”
The executive order also notes ongoing coordination between the province, the Department of National Defense (DND), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on potential infrastructure and development proposals within the area.
Under the new structure, the PTWG will serve as the official coordinating body of the provincial government in all engagements with national agencies concerning Camp Lapu-Lapu development plans.
It will be chaired by the head of the Economic Enterprise Council, with the Provincial Planning and Development Office serving as vice chair, reflecting a planning and investment-oriented approach to the initiative.
Its membership includes key provincial offices such as engineering, legal, treasury, disaster risk reduction, assessor’s office, and the Provincial General Services Office, along with selected representatives from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan committees.
According to the order, the PTWG is tasked to coordinate with national counterparts, review land and legal documents, and evaluate existing agreements affecting proposed development within the military reservation area.
It is also authorized to conduct site assessments, participate in technical consultations, and formulate policy recommendations to improve planning efficiency and implementation readiness.
The group is expected to recommend administrative and legal measures to streamline future projects while ensuring alignment with provincial priorities and national security considerations.
All provincial departments and offices are directed to extend full support to the PTWG, including access to records, technical assistance, and personnel assistance when necessary.
The creation of the working group is anchored on the Local Government Code of 1991, particularly Sections 16 and 465, which grant local governments authority to act in the interest of general welfare and efficient governance.
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