Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro on Thursday criticized the spread of fabricated stories and alleged smear campaigns against her, warning that misinformation could erode public trust in elected officials and undermine the province’s unity.
In a Facebook post Thursday night, Baricuatro said political discussions should focus on public safety, livelihoods and community welfare as Cebuanos face rising commodity prices, economic uncertainty and concerns about their families’ future.
She cited conflicts in the Middle East, climate change, geopolitical tensions and economic pressures as challenges affecting prices, job security and people’s sense of safety.
Baricuatro said her administration remained focused on supporting local government units, strengthening the provincial economy and protecting Cebu’s progress.
She also claimed that she had been subjected to online harassment, repeated smear campaigns and fabricated stories intended to weaken public confidence in her and the province’s leadership.
“When fake stories are used to weaken elected officials, it doesn’t only attack a person, it attacks the system that is supposed to serve you,” she said.
Earlier Thursday, the Cebu Provincial Government’s official Facebook page disputed a viral graphic claiming that Baricuatro had urged Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa to surrender to the Philippine government.
The provincial government described the graphic as “FALSE and MISLEADING,” saying the statement attributed to the governor was not genuine.
It urged the public to verify her statements through her official and verified social media accounts and the provincial government’s official channels, and to stop sharing the graphic.
Baricuatro questioned who benefits when elected officials are targeted instead of being supported in carrying out their responsibilities.
She said discussions about Cebu’s welfare should focus on solutions, public service and development rather than efforts to gain political control.
The governor also criticized what she described as ambition disguised as patriotism, saying nationalism should be measured through actions that protect the public, improve daily life and promote stability.
“I ran to serve. I did not run to divide. I did not run to harm anyone,” she said.
She asked Cebuanos to continue placing their trust in her administration, describing such trust as something earned rather than given blindly. She also vowed to prioritize truth, discipline and public service over what she called selfish politics.
“Cebu is not your battlefield. Cebu is our home,” Baricuatro said.
Her statement comes as discussions about the 2028 Cebu gubernatorial race gain attention, with several political figures being mentioned as possible contenders.
During a press conference at the Capitol on Wednesday, Oct. 21, Baricuatro did not say whether she would seek reelection, saying her priority was serving the public rather than securing a political position.
📷 Pam Baricuatro / Facebook
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