Mayor Rama says Capitol opposition stalls Fuente rehab

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama yesterday confirmed that the rehabilitation of Fuente Osmeña Circle has been stalled because of the opposition of the provincial government.

The rehabilitation has not been started since the city government and M. Lhuillier ground broke the rehabilitation project last February.

Rama said he had talked with the governor for help in beautifying the circle but has yet to make a follow-up.

“I know that Gwen (Governor Gwendolyn Garcia) will see things objectively without the influence of emotion,” Rama said.

He said he is hoping that the P13 million facelift to be undertaken by M. Lhuillier will push through.

The historic Fuente Osmeña Circle, particularly the fountain, celebrated its 100th anniversary last February.

The fountain is the symbol of the first water pipe system in Cebu following the construction of the Buhisan Dam.

Over the years, the park has lost its glory, prompting the city government to move for its rehabilitation.

The proposed beautification of the circle would include more lighting, some modifications in the design and addition of safety features for the public.

M. Lhuillier offered to shoulder the cost under private-public-partnership scheme.

But the rehabilitation has not started because of the opposition of the province.

Pending case

There is a pending litigation in court filed by the provincial government on the ownership of the Fuente Osmeña.

Rama said he will make a follow-up with the governor in order for the rehabilitation to finally start.

Capitol lawyers said the city government cannot proceed with the project.

Provincial Legal Officer Marino Martinquilla yesterday said there is still a pending case before the Regional Trial Court filed by the Capitol against the city.

In 2007, the provincial government claimed ownership of Fuente Osmeña, demanding that the city turn over its administration to Capitol.

But then mayor Tomas Osmeña ignored the demand, prompting Capitol to file a civil case against the city.

“Technically, it (rehabilitation project) cannot push through but it depends upon the governor,” said Martinquilla when asked if the city can proceed with the rehabilitation.

Capitol consultant, lawyer Rory Jon Sepulveda, said they have yet to confer it with Garcia on the issue.

But Sepulveda said whatever action the governor would take should pass through the Provincial Board.

“She can set the direction on how do we handle that and recommends to the Provincial Board,” Sepulveda said.” — /LPM (FREEMAN)