In a heartfelt and compelling live interview on The Freeman’s "Know Your Candidate" segment, Governor Gwen Garcia gave a detailed and passionate overview of her legacy and vision for Cebu’s future. Hosted by Fred Languido, the conversation delved into the Governor's impressive track record, outlining programs that have transformed Cebu and made significant strides in the province’s development. With her characteristic candor and conviction, Governor Gwen made a strong case for why she is the leader Cebu needs for another term.
Governor Garcia opened the conversation by highlighting the success and lasting impact of several important programs that have been institutionalized—programs she started for the benefit of the Cebuanos. From Sugbo Kahanas, to Sugbo Negosyo, the ECD (Economic and Community Development) programs, and the Caravan of Services.
When asked about her motivations, she said, “If you put a name to the program, that is politicizing it. So the next administration can just easily discontinue it because it is associated with me. I hope we can rise above this… and just work.”
This statement shows her focus on creating programs that are not about personal gain or political legacy, but about the long-term welfare of Cebu’s people.
Governor Garcia also addressed the much-discussed 93-1 lot issue, emphasizing her stance on not selling land except for the 93-1 lot. She explained the historical context of the issue, reminding viewers that the land in question was never owned by the City of Cebu but was property of the province. "
“You cannot give what you don’t have," she asserted. She poignantly added, “Di mana inyong yuta, yuta na sa probinsya,” clarifying the issue of land ownership and the practicalities surrounding it.
The Governor also spoke passionately about her vision to relocate the Capitol to Balamban, asserting that it would provide an opportunity for the true constituents of the province to be better served. This move, she said, would bring governance closer to the people, ensuring that no part of the province is left behind.
Governor Garcia also discussed the formation of the Department of Economic Enterprises and various initiatives aimed at boosting Cebu's infrastructure and economy.
The Capitol has been successful in partnership with private sectors through its Economic Enterprise Council, including the Capitol's Bulk Water System Project and the Malapascua Power initiative, which aims to provide uninterrupted electricity to the island. Furthermore, the Waste-to-Energy Project was highlighted as a major step toward sustainable development, showing how Cebu is positioning itself to be a leader in modern, environmentally responsible solutions. This will be the first WTE in the country.
She also spoke about the Solar Power Plant in Daanbantayan, a 150-megawatt facility that promises to bolster the province’s energy security.
“Cebuanos deserve world-class services. We need to sustain it,” Governor Garcia said, stressing the importance of innovative partnerships with the private sector to achieve lasting change.
In the most dramatic moment of the interview, Fred Languido posed a final question to Governor Garcia that captured the essence of her campaign for re-election: "Nganong angayan nga subli-an si Governor Gwen Garcia sa laing termino?"
Her response was as powerful as it was humble. With the grace and authenticity that has defined her career, Governor Garcia said, “I do not blow my own horn. Kamo nalang desidir kung angayan ba o dili. You’ve heard me, but naa man sad ang Sugbo News, naa man sad tanan natong mga pages. You have watched me, you know my life, wa koy gitago. More importantly, wa koy gilimod ug wa sad ko mamakak.”
She continued, “My life has been an open book, from the very beginning. So it’s up to the people. I will just say that Gwen Garcia is Gwen Garcia. I’ve never changed from the very first day I served as Governor of Cebu. It was July 1st, 2004.”
“I have never been your typical politician. In fact, I surprised a lot of people when I would say, ‘No, I cannot do that, No I cannot give you that.’ Ang politiko never says no.”
Governor Garcia reflected on her unique approach to governance, saying, “I am who I am. Maybe it helped that I came from the private sector. Built up my own businesses and I knew that nothing prospers based on promises that you cannot fulfill. So, I identified government as an enterprise. Enterprise demands efficiency. Efficiency translates to quality service for all.”
Concluding with a poignant statement, she reaffirmed, “I am still the same. Maybe the years have etched their mark on my face, on my weight, but the heart of Gwen Garcia, a heart that found her calling on that first day that I served as Governor of Cebu in 2004. “
“This is still the same heart that I believe wa nagyuy laing makaangkon pa. Kay kini sa kinatibuk-an giangkon na sa Sugbo ug mga Sugboanon.”
Governor Gwen Garcia’s interview on The Freeman’s “Know Your Candidate” segment was a powerful reminder of her unwavering commitment to the people of Cebu. From her enduring legacy to her vision for the future, it is clear that Governor Garcia is driven not by personal ambition, but by an undying passion to serve her province. | via JMT
