Baricuatro to critics: ‘I take the lead, I govern’

Local

“I AM calling the shots.”

With those words, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro confronted persistent speculations that her administration is being controlled by the powerful Durano political family of Danao City.

Baricuatro addressed reporters directly to dispel doubts about her autonomy as the province’s chief executive during the first Provincial Caravan of services on Friday, August 8, held on Camotes Islands.

The speculation arose following her public appearances alongside Durano family members, which some interpreted as signs that the clan exerts undue influence over the Capitol.

Baricuatro made it clear that she alone leads the provincial government.

“I take the lead. I govern,” she told the media, asserting that she is the one “calling the shots at the Capitol.”

She acknowledged the political support she received from Danao City Mayor Ramonito “Nito” Durano III, stressing that his endorsement during her 2025 midterm election campaign was significant to her but does not equate to control over her administration.

“I was just trying to emphasize that it was Mayor Nito Durano who was the first and the only mayor who really endorsed me,” she said.

“But that doesn’t mean he endorsed me, that he is controlling me,” she added.

The governor further explained that her association with the Durano family was to recognize those who stood by her when others did not.

“I just want to acknowledge the person who publicly supported me when nobody else believed in me,” she said.

During her visit to Camotes Island, Baricuatro met with local officials and emphasized the importance of unity across political lines in serving the people of Cebu.

She highlighted that regardless of politics, everyone should work together to serve the province.

Baricuatro’s entourage included prominent Durano family members such as former Danao City Mayor Thomas Mark “Mix” Durano, 5th District Representative Ramon Hotchkiss “Red” Durano VI, and Provincial Administrator Joseph Felix Mari “Ace” Durano.

Camotes Island belongs to Cebu’s 5th congressional district, which had long been a Durano stronghold until Representative Duke Frasco of the rival Garcia camp defeated Red Durano in the 2019 elections.

Before winning the governorship, Baricuatro ran under the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino, a party allied with former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

She also received the endorsement of the Barug Alang sa Kauswagan ug Demokrasya party, headed by Nito Durano.(MyTVCebu)