Over iPads, road fix Rama says ‘iSorry’

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael yesterday apologized on at least two matters he recently decided on—the acquiring of gadget for City Hall heads and the ongoing road repairs in the city.

“On behalf of the family of the city government, I would like to apologize to those who were hurt and disturbed,” Rama told press conference inside his office.

He said he was sorry about the controversy over the recent acquisition of 30 iPad Air gadget that sparked criticisms from the public, especially from the media.

The mayor appealed that the city shall also be appreciated in its effort in resolving problems, such as the disaster preparedness, alleviating the lives of the urban poor, and addressing environmental concerns, among others.

He said they would take the criticisms as a challenge, especially to himself since he was also issued the same gadget.

At least 30 iPad Air were distributed to the department heads and key employees of City Hall last Monday.

City Administrator Lucelle Mercado, who initiated the idea of acquiring the gadget for “interconnectivity,” explained that they only subscribed to an Internet package offered by Smart Communications and that the gadgets just came for free.

According to the offer, each gadget would have a 24-hour Internet service connection for a monthly payment of P2,000 for two years, or a total expense of P1.44 million.

While Rama did not categorically answer when asked if they would still continue availing of the gadget, he said the city will “not also be looking into adding more burden in terms of money” or taxes on the Cebuanos.

In the same press conference, he likewise apologized for the inconvenience brought by the numerous road maintenance projects being implemented in different areas of the city.

He said the city is just preparing for major events, particularly the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation in 2015 and the International Eucharistic Congress in 2016.

“There’s always inconvenience with road being (rehabilitated), but let’s also be mindful that summer has to be taken advantage of and if it’s going to be a matter that will have to be received seriously, I’d like to apologize also for the inconvenience of the public,” said Rama.

He assured that the inconvenience is only temporary.

“We would like you to be assured that whatever the inconvenience being felt now will definitely bring betterment, comfort, which is substantial, especially when we are preparing for APEC and EIC,” he said.

The mayor, however, clarified that his apology should not be construed that he admitted to making wrong decisions.

“I am a person whose apology is in abundance,” he said.

Rama said he does not mind if the media or somebody would put color again on his apology.

“It’s up to them, but I’m just a mayor who also will notice how things are being reacted by,” he said further.

As for the iPad Air, Rama said he has tasked the city Management Information and Computer Services to monitor if the officials who received them are using the gadgets properly.

“Anyone I see utilizing it for Candy Crush, I will crush,” the mayor even said in jest, referring to a popular mobile game. —/RHM (FREEMAN)