For a more ‘active’ government: Changes loom at CH

CEBU, Philippines —  Changes will be in place for a more “active” government in Cebu City, said Mayor

Michael Rama a day after he was proclaimed winner in the May 9, 2022 polls, continuing a term he inherited from the late Mayor Edgardo Labella.

“We promised good governance. That we will deliver. City Hall will need to be more effective. There will be changes, but only for the city government to be more responsive to the needs of our constituents,” he said.

He did not expound what these changes will be when prodded by reporters, except to say, “Abangan ang susunod (wait for what’s next).”

Among his top priorities, however, will be to conclude the South Road Properties (SRP) loan, to cure the Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) on the Carbon Public Market redevelopment, and materialize the 93-1 deal.

He has instructed personnel concerned to work on these priorities.

Also on the process being realized are the projects on street lighting, free public Wi-Fi, traffic summit, two medium rise buildings for socialized housing, Asphalt Storm, and “Let There Be Light” to more households.

“Though we assume our mandate yet in 50 days, we now set into motion the fulfillment of our commitment in the BARUG CEBU CITY platform of Partido BARUG and continue to accomplish the 21 focus points we laid down after we assumed as ascended mayor over five months ago,” Rama said.

He said he is yet to decide whether or not there will be replacements among department heads.

Meanwhile, Rama said he will push for Sinulog 2023 at the South Road Properties.

“Yes, that is what I have looked (into). I have been thinking and even already doing some discussion and pencil-pushing,” he said.

Before the elections, Rama said he would want a larger venue for the final showdown of participating contingents. In years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ritual showdown was held at the Cebu City Sports Center.

Rama won the 2022 polls with 239,656 votes against Margot Osmeña, Dave Tumulak, Cris Saavedra, Edgar Concha, and Juanito Luna.

His running mate, incumbent councilor Raymond Garcia, also won as vice mayor.

Garcia will preside over a City Council that is composed predominantly of councilors from his and Rama’s camp, Barug-PDP Laban. Of the 16 seats in the Council, only four will be occupied by councilors from Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan (BOPK).

“As we conclude the ways of the administration with my partner, Mayor Edgardo Labella, then over the last five months with Vice Mayor Dondon Hontiveros, the leadership of Mike Rama and Vice Mayor Raymond Garcia by June 30 will be more dynamic, filled with passion and energy,” Rama said.

“That said, City Hall will cruise with bridge deck officers and engine room hands who are truly professionals and competent, backed by personnel who are ardent and fervent to deliver for our passengers, our constituents,” he added. – JMO (FREEMAN)