Mike to media: No questions please

CEBU, Philippines - So as not to make things worse, Mayor Michael Rama yesterday appealed to the members of the local press covering the City Hall, to refrain from asking questions relating to the falling out between him and his predecessor, south district Rep. Tomas Osmeña.

“As a final note this Christmas, I wish that by tomorrow (today) you will not be asking questions regarding this matter,” Rama told reporters during his regular press conference.

The mayor also just flashed a smile when asked what will be his Christmas message to Osmeña.

Rama, who has been loyal to the Bando Osmeña-Pundok Kauswagan since 1992 when he was still a councilor, and Osmeña, the founder of the BOPK, have recently been at odds when the former mayor raised concern about how the mayor run the affairs of the city. 

Osmeña said he will not stop talking and speaking against Rama as it is his “Constitutional right as a citizen.”

Also, Osmeña said he has been very vocal against Rama’s management style and the influence of his girlfriend, Jocelyn Pesquera and businessman friend, Rene Mercado, on the way the mayor is running the affairs of the city especially in screening City Hall employees. Rama, however, reminded Osmeña that “in every right, there is an obligation.”

Rama cited Article 19 of the Civil Code that says “every person must exercise his rights and in the performance of his duties, act with justice, give everyone his due, and observe honesty and good faith.”

The mayor did not further enumerate and discuss its details but said that he wants to enjoy the Christmas and he is preparing for the New Year.

But despite his alleged “conflict” with Osmeña, Rama said he is still part and member of the BOPK family.  (FREEMAN)