‘I respect authority’
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro defended her attendance at President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address against public criticism. She emphasized that her role requires professional cooperation with national authorities to secure support for regional development projects.
Why it matters
Illustrates the tension between local political autonomy and the necessity of maintaining relationships with national leadership for regional funding.
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro defended her decision to attend President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona), saying her role as a government leader requires her to respect and work with national authorities.
Baricuatro said Wednesday, July 29, that her attendance at the Sona drew criticism, particularly from people who viewed the event through the lens of political affiliations.
“Gibash ko og maayo. Gibash ko og ngano niadto kuno ko. Ngano dili man? I respect authority. The President is the President — he is the President of the country,” she said.
(I was heavily criticized. People bashed me for going there. But why not? I respect authority. The President is the President — he is the President of the country.)
READ: Cebu officials welcome 2026 Marcos’ Sona tax relief, economic aid pledges
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