CEBU, Philippines - Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes's former executive secretary is now the new city administrator.
Lawyer James Abadia will take over the position left vacant by former city administrator Briccio Boholst a month ago.
Abadia, 31, is an AB Political Science and a law graduate of the University of San Carlos. He passed the bar in 2005.
After passing the bar, he was immediately hired as city legal officer by the Lapu-Lapu City government where he served for six years before his transfer to the Mandaue City government last February wherein he first held the position of executive secretary, a position left vacant by barangay Subangdaku captain and ABC president Ernie Manatad.
Abadia also worked as a disc jockey for the now-defunct radio dyBU of the Manila Broadcasting Corporation (MBC).
Cortes said he chose Abadia for his good work ethics and trustworthiness.
He said being the alter ego of the mayor, he had to look for someone whom he has trust and confidence.
He said Abadia's track record as a public servant can not be questioned.
Cortes said his marching orders to Abadia are to pay attention to the daily operations and basic services of the city and infrastructure and education.
He said he also wants to try young ones for their new ideas.
Abadia for his part said that he wants to strengthen the internal organization at city hall and focus on education, infrastructure, and solid waste which are the thrusts of the mayor.
"I will always remain at the service of the mayor," Abadia said.