CEBU - Members of various fraternity groups in Cebu City, particularly the controversial Alpha Kappa Rho and the Tau Gamma Phi fraternities, have assured that their participation is no bane to the celebration of the feast of Señor Sto. Niño, most especially during the Sinulog grand parade on January 18.
In fact, the said fraternity groups even pledged to help in clearing the city of graffiti. Councilor Richie Osmeña said that the leaders of the various fraternities vowed that their members will actively join the cleanup as a way of showing to the public their sincere commitment of putting an end to their conflict.
“Maayo ni nga development kay makita unya nato nga ang mga sakop sa fraternities nga kaniadto kontra, karon magkauban na sa pakigbatok kontra grafitti,” the councilor said.
It was learned from Osmeña that at least 120 fraternity members have already manifested their intention to join in the cleanup not only in areas designated as part of the route of the Sinulog grand parade but also in other parts of the city.
Acting Mayor Michael Rama tasked Osmeña to handle the campaign against graffiti and to coordinate with the fraternity leaders to realize the “mission.”
Osmeña said he is willing to spend his own money to purchase T-shirts for the 120 volunteers from the various fraternity groups who will participate in the city-wide cleanup to be conducted starting Friday next week.
“Walay government funds nga gamiton niining maong project, pulos ni mga donations. Kaming mga konsehal ug ubang opisyal, mga concerned individuals mi-donate og mga pintal, brush, ug uban pa nga magamit sa cleanup,” Osmeña said.
The volunteers will start the cleanup at the corner of P. del Rosario and Leon Kilat Streets near the exit of the Cebu City Sports Center. Then, the groups will proceed to P. del Rosario Street, Imus Avenue, General Maxilom Avenue, Fuente Osmeña, then to Osmeña Boulevard.
“Mipasalig ang mga sakop sa Akrho nga dili g’yod mahitabo nga sila mag-away kay moapil man gani sila sa Sinulog, unya ang Tau Gamma duna say mga tindahan,” Osmeña said. — Rene U. Borromeo/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)