NBI and Capitol ink pact for new building

CEBU, Philippines - Six months after it was discussed, the Province of Cebu and the National Bureau Investigation (NBI) have finally signed the memorandum of agreement for the construction of an NBI regional office in the province-owned lot at Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City.

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and NBI Director Magtanggol Gatdula signed the agreement yesterday at the Capitol witnessed by Vice Governor Agnes Magpale, Provincial Board Members Peter John Calderon, Sun Shimura and Jose Ribomapil Holganza, Jr. as well as NBI-7 Regional Director Edward Villarta and the bureau’s agents.

Garcia made the offer last April during the visit of Gatdula and other NBI officials at the Capitol where the need for the NBI to transfer to a more spacious area was discussed.

The new building for the NBI-7 will serve as a “decent home” befitting a law enforcement agency which plays a major role in keeping Cebu safe, Gov. Garcia said.

“It is but proper that the Provincial Government shall treat you as decently as you had conducted your responsibilities in the most decent and professional manner. Kudos to the men and women of the NBI Region 7,” Garcia said.

Law enforcement can be a risky business, she added, and yet the public expects them to do their job regardless of the risk.

“And when something goes wrong they are crucified to no end. We expect them to be decent and yet they do not get the same decency that they deserve. And so Cebu shall sound off this signal that over here we recognize your vital role,” she said.

For its part, the NBI has also offered to provide its new building with the essential facilities, equipment and supplies so that it can “effectively and efficiently establish, operate, and maintain its office.”

Provincial Engineer Eulogio Pelayre said the construction of the two-storey building will start next month and will be finished in six months. — (FREEMAN)