Rama pursuing those who made Natu-el chief

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama will pursue legal action against the individuals responsible for what he called the questionable appointment of Senior Supt. Mariano Natu-el Jr. as Cebu City police chief.

Rama yesterday told reporters in his first regular press conference for his second term that he will not stop questioning its legality.

“I am directing my city attorney to look into that. I will pursue how Natu-el got his appointment. If we let them get away with it, it means any one of us will be covered by them,” the re-elected mayor said.

He reiterated that he just wants the rule of law to prevail.

Rama earlier said the appointment was illegal since May 20 still fell within the election ban period.

Reacting to remarks of Philippine National Police Academy alumni in Cebu that it seems he is favoring a Philippine Military Academy graduate over them, Rama challenged these people to come up with a competent list.

“Kinsa may exceptional nila? What accomplishment do they have? Kung naa’y exceptional nila, give me a name whose mind and heart is expanded,” the mayor said.

Rama did not favor PNPA graduate Natu-el and has instead been pushing for PMA graduate Sr. Supt. Noli Romana.

During the same press conference, Rama formally confirmed that former councilors Joey Daluz and Edu Rama will both be City Hall employees.

“I already signed their appointments. Daluz will be part of legal team. Edu will be an executive assistant on barangay affairs,” the mayor added. — /BRP (FREEMAN)