CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES — Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro highlighted the province’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development during her speech at the ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit 2026, where government leaders, business groups, and international partners gathered to discuss green growth and regional cooperation.
Addressing delegates from the ASEAN-EU Business Council, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, and various stakeholders, Baricuatro welcomed participants to Cebu and emphasized the province’s readiness to embrace future-oriented and climate-resilient development.
“Cebu is now positioning itself as a province ready for the future, one that understands that real progress must also be sustainable, resilient, and inclusive,” Baricuatro said.
The governor said her administration is focused on ensuring that Cebu’s economic growth remains meaningful and long-term by strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure and improving water and flood management systems.
She also cited ongoing efforts to pursue sustainable energy solutions and responsible waste management programs aimed at protecting future generations.
Beyond environmental initiatives, Baricuatro stressed that sustainability also includes investments in food security, healthcare, transparency, and digital governance.
“Sustainability is not only about the environment. It is also about building communities that are prepared, empowered, and trusted by the people they serve,” she said.
The governor underscored the importance of collaboration between governments, businesses, innovators, and development organizations in achieving sustainability goals.
She described the ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit 2026 as an important platform that encourages stronger partnerships and shared solutions for building responsible and future-ready economies across the region.
“To our guests and partners, thank you for being here and for choosing Cebu as host of this important gathering,” Baricuatro said.
She expressed hope that the summit would lead to meaningful discussions, stronger collaborations, and practical solutions that would benefit not only Cebu but also the wider Southeast Asian region.
The ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit 2026 serves as a premier regional platform aimed at accelerating cross-sectoral action toward Southeast Asia’s green and inclusive transition.
| Written by Mitchelle Palaubsanon
