Gwen: Let Cebu reps pursue creating MCDA

CEBU, Philippines - Governor Gwendolyn Garcia left it to the Cebuano lawmakers to pursue their plan to file a bill in Congress for the creation of the Metro Cebu Development Authority.

Cebu representatives who earlier expressed their support for the creation of the MCDA include Eduardo Gullas (1st district), Pablo Garcia (2nd district), Benhur Salimbangon (4th district) and Luigi Quisumbing (6th district).

Garcia said for now, the Metro Cebu Development Council, of which she is chairwoman, is the only vehicle that is already there to address issues on drainage, flood control, traffic, peace and order, solid waste management and coastal resource management.

She said as governor she is responsible for the day-to-day safety, security and improvement of the lives of the constituents and she cannot wait for a law to be passed.

“I called for this meeting, we will discuss our common problem and common issues and concerns, but we will go beyond discussing. I will present a road map on how to address and where to find the funds,” Garcia said.

“Let’s not talk about a city becoming a village,” Garcia added apparently referring to the statement of Rep. Tomas Osmeña of Cebu City’s south district that the proposed MCDA will only turn Cebu City into another barangay in the province.

Osmeña, in opposition to the proposal, was reportedly saying that he does not want to have an authority higher than Cebu City.

“Pabalakaha lang na siya og iya. We have more important concerns to tackle and his concern is way down there,” Garcia said.

Meanwhile, some Cebu business groups are interested in attending the meeting of the MCDC tomorrow afternoon at the Capitol.

Capitol consultant Rory Jon Sepulveda said that Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Cebu Business Club have signified their interest to attend as observers.

Upon learning this, Garcia opened the meeting to other private groups to hear their insights aside from the local chief executives of cities and towns defined by Metro Cebu.   (FREEMAN NEWS)