Rama denies walkout at dad’s meet

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama allegedly walked out after being prevented from speaking before the Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines general assembly. But Rama denied this saying he had to leave for another appointment.

“No, I did not walk out. I went there because I was invited but I had to leave because I have another schedule,” the mayor told reporters. He added he was “surprised” to know that he will not be allowed to speak.

BCLP Cebu Chapter President Franklyn Ong said while they invite Rama and other incumbent officials, officials have decided to set a rule of not allowing candidates to talk to keep away from politics.

“It was a board decision not to allow any candidate (even incumbent officials) not to deliver a speech. We invited every elected official. Akora and the board treasurer were allowed to speak,” Ong told reporters.

Inviting Rama, Ong added, was a sign of respect.

He added that when Rama asked if he can talk, the officials declined and reiterated their rule.

“He wanted to speak but amo man ‘tong stand nga wala’y pastoryahon. All incumbent officials were invited. BCLP is supposed to be non-partisan. Raul del Mar was there but only Cutie was invited. Even Raul was not allowed to speak,” Ong continued.

The mayor said he was “a little bit disappointed” that BCLP officials prevented him from talking citing Comelec rules on illegal campaigning.

“There is no such thing as Comelec rule. I am the mayor. For every gathering, I am normally asked to talk. Of course, it’s not like I will ask them to vote for me,” Rama said.

When asked to confirm if he challenged Ong to a fistfight after the incident, the mayor said he “did not say that inside the venue.”

“But if we meet again, I will have something to say to him personally,” he added.

To which Ong replied “He can always tell me” adding he was “stunned” by the incident. (FREEMAN)