In a significant step toward modernizing governance in Cebu, Governor Pamela Baricuatro recently welcomed key officials from Globe Telecom at the Cebu Provincial Capitol to discuss how the company’s digital expertise can help the province transition into a future-ready, intelligent hub.
The meeting comes amid Gov. Baricuatro’s broader administration goal of strengthening transparency, efficiency, and responsiveness in government services. Globe’s capabilities in digital infrastructure, financial technology, and data analytics were presented as tools that could help Cebu achieve a smarter, more connected provincial administration.
Leveraging Technology for Governance
Governor Baricuatro underscored that modern governance is no longer just about policies—it is also about harnessing technology to serve the people better. She emphasized that by partnering with Globe, the Capitol could integrate digital systems that streamline operations, enhance financial management, and support data-driven decision-making.
Among the highlights of the briefing were Globe’s solutions for:
- Operational Efficiency – Automating routine processes to reduce delays and errors in government workflows.
- Financial Transparency – Leveraging secure digital transactions to improve accountability in provincial finances.
- Data Analytics – Utilizing data to forecast trends, allocate resources efficiently, and design impactful programs.
- Smart Connectivity – Enhancing communication between provincial offices, local government units (LGUs), and stakeholders to ensure smooth coordination of services.
By implementing these solutions, the Capitol hopes to deliver faster and more effective services to Cebuanos, making government interactions less cumbersome and more transparent
“Intelligent Cebu”: A Smart City Vision
The collaboration is anchored on Globe’s “Intelligent Cebu” initiative, a localized version of the global smart city model. This vision aims to use technology, information, and innovation to improve urban planning, service delivery, and citizen engagement.
Under the initiative, Cebu will focus on creating:
- Digital Platforms for Public Service – Citizens can access key services online, reducing the need for physical transactions and making public services more accessible.
- Real-Time Monitoring Systems – Health, disaster management, traffic, and infrastructure can be monitored in real-time for faster response.
- Integrated Communication Networks – A connected system that links all provincial offices, ensuring efficient information flow.
- Predictive Analytics for Governance – Using data to anticipate trends, prevent problems, and make proactive policy decisions.
A Globe executive emphasized that the project is not just about technology for technology’s sake; rather, it is about creating a smarter, more responsive government that truly serves its constituents.
Supporting Gov. Baricuatro’s Vision
Governor Baricuatro has consistently stressed that technology and innovation are vital to strengthening Cebu’s provincial administration. She believes that intelligent governance can complement her ongoing efforts in healthcare, economic development, and disaster preparedness.
“Intelligent Cebu is about leveraging technology to enhance the efficiency of services, infrastructure, and development,” the governor said. “By combining innovation with compassion and public service, we can bring tangible improvements to the lives of every Cebuano.”
The partnership also aligns with her commitment to transparent and accountable governance, a principle she highlighted during her State of the Province Address, where she promised to tackle irregularities, streamline operations, and make public services more accessible.
Digital Governance: Beyond the Capitol Walls
One of the major goals of the initiative is to extend the benefits of digital governance beyond Cebu City and provincial offices, reaching municipal and barangay levels. Globe officials presented strategies to deploy cloud-based systems, mobile applications, and real-time reporting tools that would allow LGUs to:
- Monitor and manage local services efficiently
- Access financial records and budget reports transparently
- Improve disaster preparedness through predictive models and data-driven alerts
- Foster citizen participation by providing easier channels to report issues and provide feedback
This approach ensures that even residents in remote areas of Cebu will experience the advantages of smarter governance.
Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships
Gov. Baricuatro emphasized that successful digital transformation requires strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. By working closely with Globe, the provincial government can maximize resources without straining the public budget, while Globe can contribute its expertise to build sustainable solutions for Cebu.
“This is a partnership built on trust and shared goals,” said Gov. Baricuatro. “We are committed to creating a government that is not only efficient but also accountable and forward-looking. The private sector’s expertise, especially in digital solutions, is invaluable in achieving this vision.”
The governor hinted at upcoming private collaborations to integrate smart tech in healthcare, education, disaster management, and tourism.
A Future-Ready Cebu
The “Intelligent Cebu” initiative represents a major step toward modern governance, where technology, data, and innovation converge to improve the lives of citizens. For Gov. Baricuatro, the ultimate goal is to ensure that every Cebuano experiences government as faster, closer, and kinder.
“Digital innovation is no longer optional—it is essential for effective governance and sustainable development. With the right technology, we can anticipate needs, prevent problems, and deliver services that truly make a difference in people’s lives,” she said.
With Globe’s support, the Cebu Provincial Capitol advances a smart, data-driven future, promoting efficient and transparent governance.
Looking Ahead
Cebu aims to become a fully digital province, with Gov. Baricuatro and Globe launching pilot programs for smarter public services and real-time data monitoring.
“We are not just building a smart government. We are building a government that learns, adapts, and serves the people better every day,” the governor said.
