Capitol: No politics in rebuilding efforts

CEBU, Philippines - The provincial government clarified that it has nothing to do with the selection of  beneficiaries in the relief efforts of private organizations in the typhoon-hit areas in northern Cebu.

The Capitol issued the clarification after Medellin Mayor Ricardo Ramirez cried politics in the rebuilding project undertaken by Cemex Philippines in Bogo City and Daanbantayan.

Ramirez complained that his town was left behind even if it is located in between Bogo City and Daanbantayan.

Provincial Information Office head Ethel Natera said that private organizations have the prerogative to select its beneficiaries.

She then pointed out the CEMEX Philippines, a cement producer, as example.

“Amo ra gyud, is to assist whatever we can. It’s CEMEX’s money, wala mi hold. About the money and where it would be given is already their decision,” she said.

CEMEX recently signed a partnership with the city government of Bogo, municipality of Daanbantayan, provincial government, Department of Education, Gawad Kalinga (GK), and 3 Villages, 1 Goal (3V1G) for the “Build Unity” Project, a rebuilding  program in typhoon-stricken areas in Cebu.

CEMEX and 3V1G are set to build a community health center in Malapascua Island in Daanbantayan town.

“Naa pod sila’y rason kung nganong adto itukod ilang projects. We cannot force the company (CEMEX),” she said.

Ramirez alleged that the relief efforts of the province only serve those Liberal Party allies. He was referring to Daanbatayan Mayor Augusto Corro and Bogo City Mayor Celestino Martinez Jr. —/FPL (FREEMAN)