Baricuatro wins Cebu gubernatorial race, ending Garcia clan rule

Pam Baricuatro was officially proclaimed as the winner of the gubernatorial race in Cebu province on Tuesday, May 13, defeating incumbent Governor Gwen Garcia.

Baricuatro received approximately 1.1 million votes and expressed gratitude to her supporters for their support, saying she wanted a leadership that would empower citizens and 'not overpower.'

The newly elected governor said she is 'overwhelmed' by her victory, attributing it to a clean campaign focused on improving healthcare access in Cebu and the support of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Her proclamation was delayed for almost six hours after the Commission on Elections-Central Visayas (Comelec 7) waited for results from a clustered precinct in Pinamungajan town before proceeding with the vote count and transmission of results.

Baricuatro leads Cebu gubernatorial race, ending decades of Garcia clan rule. She plans to order audits in the Cebu capitol and its municipalities 'for the sake of transparency and accountability.'

Despite having a strong network of local leaders supporting her, Garcia lost due to a confluence of factors including antagonizing local power holders and influential forces on the ground.

Baricuatro's victory was attributed to widespread support from Duterte supporters who chanted his name during her proclamation ceremony.