Cebu Governor Initiates Comprehensive Review of Provincial Land Agreements
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has issued a directive for a thorough examination of all existing and proposed usufruct agreements involving provincial properties. This move aims to establish a unified site development plan, addressing concerns over fragmented development as multiple government agencies occupy and develop lands owned by the Provincial Government.
Executive Order Formalizes Review Process
To formalize this initiative, Baricuatro signed Executive Order (EO) 7, Series of 2026. This order authorizes the review of all usufruct agreements, deeds of donation, and memoranda of agreement related to provincial properties and economic enterprise assets. The review will encompass arrangements with private entities, government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs), and national government agencies (NGAs).
According to Provincial Assistant Administrator Aldwin Empaces, during the first two months of the new administration, several NGAs provided updates on their projects and agreements signed in the previous term. Under EO 7, the Economic Enterprise Council (EEC) and technical units will conduct legal and financial assessments to ensure these agreements align with the province's long-term development policies.
Addressing Congestion and Fragmentation
Empaces highlighted that the review includes the Provincial Legislative Building, which he described as congested. Originally intended for the vice governor's office and the Provincial Board's session hall, the building also houses offices of agencies such as the Commission on Audit, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Agrarian Reform, and Commission on Elections.
The core objective of this review is to rationalize property use and prevent fragmented development. Empaces emphasized, "To unify everything, the governor decided to create a site development plan for all these properties, including those occupied by agencies with usufruct agreements, so that decisions will follow a single, unified perspective and not be fragmented. It does not look good when development is done piece by piece." He noted that now is an opportune time to craft this framework, especially for properties in Sudlon, Barangay Lahug in Cebu City, as most agencies with usufruct agreements already have budget allocations for the year.
Future Revenue and Strategic Planning
The review will also cover prime provincial assets, including the Capitol property in Cebu IT Park. Empaces explained that the new site development plan will serve as a blueprint for the EEC to develop a roadmap for revenue-generating activities. Moving forward, no new agreements regarding the use or disposition of Province-owned lands—whether through usufruct, donation, or lease—will be approved without the express consent of the EEC.
This strategic approach aims to enhance coordination, optimize land use, and ensure that development projects contribute effectively to the province's economic growth and long-term sustainability.
