Pelaez offers dialog with VM Amores, councilors

After accusing some Lapu-Lapu City officials of irregularities in the purchase of computers, businessman Efraim Pelaez wrote to inform Vice Mayor Mario Amores that he is willing to have a dialog with members of the City Council.

Pelaez said he is open to discuss problems affecting the development of the city with Amores and the councilors.

Among the concerns he wanted to discuss with city officials are garbage problems, and the increasing number of illegal settlers in government-owned lots, especially in the coastal areas.

Pelaez, president of the Mactan Island Chamber of Commerce, said his organization only wants progress for Lapu-Lapu City.

The chamber is “willing to cooperate with the members of the city council under the leadership of Vice Mayor Amores,” he said, adding that his other concern has been about the reported irregularities at City Hall.

Pelaez filed complaints against Mayor Arturo Radaza and 19 other city officials over the purchase of P23.4 million worth of computers that he contended was laced with irregularity.

He accused the officials of pocketing money in the transaction and committing overpricing because the city government bought each computer set at P49,000 when it could be had for only P25,000.

Amores, when contacted by The Freeman, confirmed that he received the letter from Pelaez inviting him and the councilors to a dialog.

The vice mayor however has not confirmed yet if they accepted Pelaez offer. —Jose P. Sollano/RAE