Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro met with provincial board member Malcolm Sanchez to discuss proposed ordinances aimed at strengthening transparency measures and enhancing domestic and global partnerships for the province.
One of the key proposals raised was the creation of the International and Local Sisterhood Linkages Affairs (ISLA) Office under the Office of the Governor.
The new office would serve as a hub for formalizing Cebu’s engagement with foreign governments, development agencies, and local counterparts, with the goal of expanding cooperation in investment, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
The officials also deliberated on a framework for the transparent and accountable use of foreign aid and donations. The measure seeks to ensure that all forms of assistance extended to Cebu are managed responsibly, monitored closely, and directed to intended beneficiaries.
Baricuatro said the initiatives are part of her administration’s broader governance agenda, which emphasizes accountability and people-centered leadership.
She noted that by institutionalizing systems for partnerships and aid management, the provincial government aims to provide stronger assurance to development partners and donors, while securing more opportunities for residents.
The move comes as local governments across the Philippines face increasing pressure to improve oversight of public funds and maximize international cooperation for economic recovery and development.
Cebu, one of the country’s key economic and tourism hubs, has long relied on both domestic partnerships and foreign assistance to strengthen infrastructure, social services, and disaster response programs.
Baricuatro added that the planned reforms are intended to support sustainable growth while reinforcing Cebu’s position as a leading province in the Visayas. The ordinances will undergo further discussion before being presented to the provincial board for formal approval.
CebuBusinessNews.ph
