Rama wants to convert lot at NRA into multi-purpose area

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Rama is planning to convert Block 27 of the North Reclamation Area into a multi-purpose area.

Rama shared his proposal after he visited the lot yesterday morning.

“I had told Joey Daluz and I had a talk with Hans Sy right at the side with some SM personalities and magpatabang ta sa People for privately driven governance nga ma multi-purpose area,” Rama said.

The mayor is considering converting the area into a park or a space that can be utilized as a shelter during calamities.  Rama also stated that he has no plan of selling Block 27 since there are still many lots that can be sold at the South Road Properties.

He clarified that that there is still no agreement between the Cebu City government and SM regarding the plan.

Rama cited though that SM can benefit from the project if it is to be implemented.

“I’m just bringing it to Hans because SM is there if we have an open space diha,” the mayor said.

Moreover, Rama also instructed Daluz, the head of the Reduce Danger Zone-River (ReDZ-R), to clear the sidewalks of Mahiga Creek and other roads at the North Reclamation Area that will eventually pave the way for the planned park.

According to Daluz, they would need to demolish the structures in the area so that they can clear the sidewalk.

“We prepare for eventuality. We need to recover the sidewalk,” Daluz said, stressing that they would need to “raise” the sidewalk to serve as a buffer when the Mahiga Creek overflows.

“The residents, sidewalk vendors will be removed and the land of block 27 A and B will flattened as per instruction of the mayor,” Daluz added.

It is also necessary to demolish the footbridge to create an embankment, said Daluz.

Daluz plans to conduct the demolition next week after getting the authority from the mayor.   (FREEMAN)