Rama to “opposing” dept. heads: It’s okay with me if you quit now

CEBU, Philippines - Reelected Cebu city mayor Michael Rama said it is better for department heads who did not support him during the elections to resign.

“Kung moingon sila nga mo-resign sila, ganahan gyud ko ana,” Rama told reporters saying this will make the revamp easier as his second term starts in July 1.

Shortly after the elections, Rama announced major movements of department heads in City Hall after some of them openly expressed support for his opponent, former mayor Tomas Osmeña.

Six department heads reportedly walked out of the mayor’s office during a loyalty check called for by Rama before the elections.

These included city attorney Joseph Bernaldez, city veterinarian Dr. Alice Utlang, city treasurer Emma Villarete, human resource chief Evangeline Abatayo, internal control officer Arlene Rentosa and city manpower development and placement chief Fidel Magno.

Bernaldez already tendered his resignation last May 15 and has not reported to City Hall since, saying he is utilizing his leave credits until June 30.

Rama said he already has someone in mind to replace Bernaldez as well as the human resources chief but refused to name them saying it will be announced as he starts his second term.

Unlike the other five department heads, Bernaldez was the only non-permanent employee.

Utlang told reporters that she is not resigning but is expecting a reassignment.

“Di ko mo-resign kay nagbuhat ra man ko sa akong trabaho. I insisted on being non-partisan. Pero nagpaabot ra ko kung asa ko ilabay,” she said.

Rama also announced yesterday that casual employees whose contracts will not be renewed may surpass the 2,000 he earlier announced.

“I envisioned around 2,500 casual employees to be replaced. Pero dili ni siya dungan. But this number is not farfetched,” the mayor added. - /BRP (FREEMAN)