Lapu-Lapu eyes new CH building

CEBU, Philippines - The Lapu-Lapu City government will prioritize constructing a new city hall building.

Mayor Paz Radaza, who celebrated her 63rd birthday yesterday, told reporters her administration will need a big amount of money to push through with the project.

The city hall building in barangay Pajo was constructed during the administration of the late city mayor Maximo V. Patalinghug, or more than 20 years ago.

City officials say it’s just about time to put up a new city hall building given that the city, for one, has a growing population, and for another, is now a lone congressional district.

Radaza said real property taxes due the city from the Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority could help bankroll the construction.

For now, the city can only hope to collect P1.8 billion in unpaid taxes from MCIAA.

But MCIAA has assured it will pay the taxes but is asking for more time to review the matter.

MCIAA seeks exemption from payment of taxes for a portion of the MCIAA property, which includes the runways. - THE FREEMAN