CEBU—Governor Pamela Baricuatro has called on local leaders, business groups, and development partners to work together for a “better, safer, and smarter Cebu,” emphasizing unity, foresight, and compassion in rebuilding the province’s economy.
“Resilience is not enough,” Baricuatro said at the Cebu Province Economic Forum 3.0. “True strength demands foresight and action. We must build not just back—but better, safer, and smarter.”
She urged all sectors to focus on preparedness and proactive planning to ensure sustainable progress, stressing that economic growth should uplift all sectors—from farmers and fisherfolk to entrepreneurs and youth.
The forum, themed “Embracing Opportunities, Overcoming Challenges,” gathered national and local officials, business leaders, and development institutions to discuss strategies for inclusive recovery after the 6.9-magnitude earthquake.
Baricuatro said collaboration is key to achieving meaningful progress, adding that Cebu’s development must be rooted in shared responsibility, integrity, and purpose.
