CH to open call center for public concerns

CEBU, Philippines - People who have grievances and complaints will soon have a direct line to City Hall.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama yesterday said the City plans to open a 24/7 hotline to immediately address people’s problems and concerns, even give medical advice.

In yesterday’s press conference, Rama said the establishment of a hotline has the concept of a “call-center,” which the City Government believes would bring services close to the people.

“It’s like a call-center,” Rama said.

 Aside from addressing grievances, the hotline may also offer medical advice.

The project will be introduced next year as soon as the City finds a company that can help figure out the project.

Earlier, the Junior Chamber International-Metro Cebu Uptown (JCI-MCU) also launched a City Hall hotline, which the Cebuanos can channel their concerns that need actions from the city government.

The difference with Rama’s project with that of the JCI-MCU is that the latter’s would cater to text messages 24 hours but calls would only be received during office hours.

JCI-MCU executive director Ray Godilano had said that thru the hotline, the public could text or call their concerns and these will be forwarded immediately to City Hall departments concerned.

The program is sponsored by Globe Telecom while JCI will facilitate its implementation in partnership with the City. 

Godilano said they expect to receive millions of text messages and the concerns would include garbage and traffic, among many others. – THE FREEMAN