Cebu Vice Governor Calls for Advance Notice on Governor's Foreign Travels
In a move to enhance governmental efficiency, Cebu Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco has formally requested Governor Pamela Baricuatro to inform his office in advance of any official or personal travel abroad. This request aims to prevent delays and ensure uninterrupted public service in the province.
Letter Highlights Need for Coordination
In a letter dated April 7, 2026, Soco emphasized that prior notice would help avoid miscommunication or confusion and facilitate proper coordination. He pointed out that Baricuatro's recent trip to Japan from April 4 to 8, as well as some previous travels, were not formally relayed to his office. As provided by law, the vice governor assumes the role of acting governor in the governor's absence from the country, Soco stated, underscoring the necessity of advance notice to observe protocols and carry out official functions seamlessly.
Concerns Over Document Processing
During an interview on Monday, April 13, Soco also raised concerns regarding document processing. He noted that the absence of the governor's signature on some endorsements has led to questions and delays. There were several endorsements that were sent here to the SP (Sangguniang Panlalawigan) signed only by the assistant legal officer, Soco explained. He added that this raised concerns, as such documents are typically signed by the Office of the Governor. It made us question because normally, it's supposed to be the Office of the Governor that signs, so we returned it and had it clarified, he said.
Governor's Response on Communication Lapse
In an earlier interview on Thursday, April 9, Governor Baricuatro addressed the delayed designation of Soco as acting governor during her Japan trip. You know what, I did the right thing. Everything was legal. I was given approval to travel by the DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government), she asserted. Baricuatro clarified that it should be the DILG—not her office—that formally informs the Office of the Vice Governor regarding such designations. It's supposed to be the DILG to inform the Office of the Vice Governor. It's not my prerogative to tell him, she said.
According to the governor, the delay in communication stemmed from a lapse within the DILG. What happened was that the office director was not immediately aware that I already had my authority to travel... his secretary was not informed, Baricuatro explained. Despite the issue, she noted that no harm was done, as Soco assumed the role by operation of law during her absence from April 4 to April 8.
DILG Regulations on Foreign Travel
Under DILG Memorandum Circular 2025-023 issued in March 2025, all applications for official and unofficial foreign travel must be filed at least seven working days before departure. The circular also cites the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007, which sets processing timelines for government transactions, reinforcing the need for timely communication and coordination to uphold public service standards.
