Mike to veto Citicenter ordinance

CEBU, Philippines -  Mayor Michael Rama announced yesterday that he will veto the ordinance that prevents him from tearing down houses inside the former Citicenter Commercial Complex building in Barangay Kamagayan.

The mayor called the ordinance highly questionable and defective because it intended to stop the executive department from destroying structures that are constructed in a city-owned property.

Rama called up his personal secretary Jovy Montecillo to remind her that he will not approve the ordinance, which is scheduled to be sent to the Office of the Mayor for signature.

“Ayoha na pagtan-aw kay basin og mapirmahan na usab nako na,” Rama said.

Last year, Rama announced that he will veto the ordinance regulating the sale of the South Road Properties (SRP) but he accidentally signed it as it was included in the documents for his signature.

But Councilor Alvin Dizon, the proponent of the legislative measure, insisted that the ordinance is in order.

“How can an ordinance which is anchored on social justice and a mandate of the national law be defective when it only implements the provisions of the law?” Dizon said.

Dizon said his move calling for a dialogue between the city officials and the concerned illegal settlers to discuss their relocation site and other related matters is in compliance with the provisions of the Urban Development and Housing Act.  

“Anyway the mayor’s opinion cannot supersede the unanimous approval of the city council. It went through a public hearing and thorough review by the committee on laws. Bogo pud diay ang iyang mga kaalyado nga konsehal, sila si Konsehal Jose Daluz ug Konsehal Edgar Labella,” Dizon asked.

Rama wants to demolish the houses in the former Citicenter because the city is planning to build condominium project in the place.

Dizon challenged Rama to report to the public if he has ordinances enacted while he was still a councilor that promotes the welfare of the urban poor.  (FREEMAN)