Rama to keep tab on City Hall

CEBU, Philippines - Vice Mayor Joy Augustus Young will be the acting mayor of Cebu City while Mayor Michael Rama is out of the country for an official visit to Japan.

Rama issued a memorandum designating Young as acting mayor for five days beginning today. Rama will be in Japan to establish technical cooperation for sustainable urban development.

Still, Rama said he will continue to be in touch with his department heads to get updates of the goings on at City Hall.

Rama will be accompanied by some city officials, including City Councilors Edgardo Labella and Eduardo Rama; Planning and Development Officer Alipio Bacalso; City Engineer Keneth Carmelita Enriquez; Protocol Officer Ryan Echivarie and Market Administrator Raquel Arce.

They are expected to return to Cebu City on April 1.

Rama is scheduled to sign a memorandum of understanding with officials of Yokohama City to enhance economic activities in both Yokohama City and Cebu City by promoting ecological and sustainable urban development in Cebu.

The Japanese officials will offer technical advice to Cebu City officials, particularly on promoting eco-city development in areas such as the South Road Properties. Officials of both cities will also discuss other urban environment issues.

Rama said Yokohama City was like Cebu City when it was still developing because it also faced issues on waste management, health and traffic.

Meanwhile, Rama announced yesterday that former city mayor Alvin Garcia signified his intention to help improve the city under Rama’s term. Rama said he is happy with Garcia’s intentions because he strongly believes that cooperation can make things happen.  (FREEMAN)