Rama mum on BOPK-LP conflict

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama keeps mum on the rising conflict between leaders of the Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan and the Liberal Party.

 Rama, who despite bolting BOPK remains a member of the LP, only said that it is unfortunate that political disagreement had to happen between local and national members but said it is not the time to blow the matter out of proportion.

 He said that the next election is over a year to go so everyone must focus on their jobs as public servants then play politics at the right time.

 “I would repeat it. As we enter this administration, our purpose is trabaho (work), menosan ang politika. They should be reminded that the best politics is performance,” Rama said.

 The mayor said there are still many things to be done in the city like providing social services, education, improving the peace and order and adding more necessary infrastructures.

 On reports that Rama is favored by the LP over his predecessor, Tomas Osmeña for the mayoralty post next election, Rama only said he is thankful that he had not been forgotten.

 But he said he has not discussed anything yet with the national LP leaders regarding the matter.

 He said that he remains as an LP member conforming to the principles of the party just as what he had taken oath for.

 To recall, Transportation and Communication and LP national president Mar Roxas and Osmeña had a heated argument last week because LP reportedly wants Rama to be the standard bearer of LP in next year’s election.

 After the incident, Osmeña announced that BOPK’s ties with LP is no longer clear and he is likely to run as mayor of Cebu City against an LP candidate.

 During his regular news briefing yesterday, Rama was asked if LP’s support will help his reelection for mayor during next year’s election. Rama said he will not be confident enough because he believes that in the end, it is the people who will decide.

 “If you don’t serve well, even if you have the national party’s support, you do not have any bragging rights. What’s important is to show that you have done your job in serving and protecting the interest of your people,” Rama said.

 The mayor assures that he is ready with his line-up and will reveal it in due time.

 He also refused to comment on rumors that several national parties offered him allegiance and wants to get him as candidate for mayor.

 “I do not want to add to that. I am happy where I am,” Rama said. (FREEMAN)