"Notable gap in management" at the public information department
The Cebu City Public Information Office (PIO) is currently without a designated head, over a month into Mayor Nestor Archival's administration, which began on July 1, 2025. This leadership void has sparked concerns about the lack of clear direction and the effectiveness of communication within the city [1][2][4].
According to Henry Tomalabcab, head of the Human Resource and Development Office (HRDO), the appointment of the PIO chief is at the mayor's prerogative and is a co-terminus position tied to the current administration. The delay in the appointment may be due to the mayor still deciding on a suitable candidate for the post. It is important to note that the appointment is not permanent and has to be made by the mayor, which has not yet occurred [1][2].
The Cebu City PIO plays a crucial role in disseminating accurate information about city services, crisis management, and addressing public concerns. However, the office's manpower has been reduced from 29 to 11 employees, mostly casual workers, which compounds the challenge of maintaining effective communication without leadership [1][2][4].
The positions of the City Legal Office, City Administrator's Office, and the City PIO are governed by the Local Government Code. As co-terminus employees of the current administration, these positions are not permanent, which explains the delay in the appointment of a new PIO head [3].
Rumours suggest that at least two individuals are being considered for the position of PIO head, but this remains unverified [5]. The source expressed hope that the current administration would soon designate an individual to head the PIO, ensuring the smooth flow of information and effective crisis management in Cebu City.
[1] Cebu Daily News, Aug. 5, 2025. [2] SunStar Cebu, Aug. 5, 2025. [3] Republic Act No. 7160, Local Government Code of the Philippines. [4] The Freeman, Aug. 5, 2025. [5] The Philippine Star, Aug. 5, 2025. (Unverified)
- The delayed appointment of a head for the Cebu City Public Information Office (PIO) has left the city government in a crucial position, with concerns about the dissemination of accurate information, crisis management, and addressing public concerns.
- The Local Government Code governs the positions of the City Legal Office, City Administrator's Office, and the City PIO, including the PIO, which are co-terminus positions tied to the current administration, leading to delays in appointing a permanent head.
- With a significant reduction in manpower, the current PIO staff faces challenges in maintaining effective communication and ensuring smooth business operations, politics, and general news flow within Cebu City.
