Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro has appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for a full and independent investigation into the causes of the widespread flooding that struck the province during the onslaught of Typhoon Tino earlier this month.
In a letter dated Nov.8, Baricuatro described how Cebu has been ‘battered beyond measure’ by consecutive disasters – from the September 30 earthquake to the flash floods brought by Typhoon Tino, which left entire barangays submerged and families displaced.
‘In the span of just weeks, Cebu has endured tragedy upon tragedy,’ Baricuatro wrote.
‘Yet again, we lost lives. Entire barangays were inundated by torrents of floodwater. Homes were swallowed by mud, and mothers clutched their children as water rose with terrifying speed,’ she added.
While praising the resilience of Cebuanos, the governor emphasized that ‘even the strongest deserve protection and justice.’ She said the calamity must not be dismissed as a mere act of nature but should prompt ‘truth, accountability, and action.’
Baricuatro has formally requested Malacañang to conduct a full and independent investigation into the recent flooding, focusing on flood control systems, drainage networks, river easements, slope protection, and quarrying or other land-altering activities that may have exacerbated the disaster.
She also sought immediate national support for environmental protection, watershed rehabilitation, and the improvement of disaster-risk infrastructure. In addition, Baricuatro urged the urgent reinforcement of climate hazard programs to safeguard communities from increasingly severe storms and earthquakes.
She further called for a dialogue with the national government to craft ‘future-proof’ disaster prevention initiatives that will ensure long-term resilience.
Baricuatro said Cebu stands ready to assist in investigative and recovery efforts and to work with the Marcos administration toward ‘long-term resilience rooted in transparency, science, and accountability.’
‘Cebu will rise, as it always has,’ she said. ‘But this time, we must rise with clear answers, stronger systems, and a renewed covenant of leadership centered on human life and dignity.’
The governor concluded her letter by assuring continued partnership with the national government ‘not merely to restore what was lost, but to secure what must never again be taken from us: the safety and future of every Cebuano.’