Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma on Tuesday urged all incoming local officials to prioritize genuine public service over personal interest as they assume office on 30 June.

“It is a clear voice of the people in a democratic government. Your responsibility is, of course, to God and to the people to make the community aware that their trust should not be made in vain,” Palma told media.

He called on public officials to seek divine guidance and strength, and to put their trust in the Lord.

Palma stressed officials must fulfill their campaign promises and view their electoral mandate as the “voice of the people,” which he equated to the voice of God.

“The gift that we receive should be made a way of making people believe God is good and we are instruments to spread goodness everywhere,” Palma added, as he reiterated hopes that world leaders will pursue peaceful dialogue in addressing differences and conflicts.

He echoed the call of Pope Leo XIV to end armed conflict and the ongoing tension between Israel and Iran.

“War does not solve problems. On the contrary, it amplifies them and inflicts deep wounds on the history of the peoples, which take generations to heal. No armed victory can compensate for the pain of mothers, the fear of children, or stolen futures. May diplomacy silence the weapons,” the Holy Father said.

Meanwhile, outgoing Vice Governor Hilario Davide III has called on the incoming members of the 17th Sangguniang Panlalawigan to support Governor-elect Pamela Baricuatro.

He reminded the board members as “to serve the people of Cebu remains constant.”

“Leadership is never about one person; it is about all of you rowing in the same direction, for the good of our province and the generations to come,” he said.

“Continue to uphold the dignity of this institution and help our province move forward United in vision, steady in purpose, and strong in resolve,” Davide said.