Rama to discuss 93-1 with Davide

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama is planning to meet with Cebu Governor-Elect Hilario Davide Jr. once the latter will assume office for them to discuss the fate of the families living in the province-owned lots situated in 11 barangays of Cebu City.

In yesterday’s press conference, Rama assured that he will try his best to help the urban poor families who are complaining because while Capitol officials finally allowed the occupants of the province-owned lots to purchase their respective lots, the cost is too high amounting up to P15,000 for every square meter.

Rama believes that the incoming governor will listen to the sentiments of the urban poor families because Davide used to be a resident of Cebu City and many of these persons voted for him when he ran and won as city councilor for two successive terms.

While Rama and Davide used to be allies in Bando Osmeña Pundok-Kauswagan (BOPK) when they were still members of the Cebu City Council, in the recent May 13 elections Rama and Davide both ran under opposing political parties.

Rama is with the United Nationalist Alliance-Team Rama while Davide is is with Liberal Party-Bando Osmeña Pundok-Kauswagan (BOPK).

“I will promise that I will not be an obstructionist to any projects that will benefit the aspiring sectors,” the mayor said.

The province-owned lots that are occupied by the urban poor families are situated in Barangays Kalunasan, Kamputhaw, Busay, Lahug, Capitol Site, Barrio Luz, Mabolo, Apas, Kasambagan, Tejero and Lorega.

Rama already allocated P100 million for any project intended for the beneficiaries of the Provincial Ordinance 93-1 that previously allowed the occupants of the province-owned lots to purchase the lot through staggered payment in 10 years.

The 10-year period have expired and still many of the families living in the province-owned lots failed to fully pay their financial obligations. Records show that of the 5,000 original settlers of the province-owned lots, only about 2,000 of them settled their obligations. (FREEMAN)