FLI publicist works as CH consultant

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Council has questioned the appointment of the City Hall consultant on development, communication and training for possible conflict of interest.

Councilor Margarita Osmeña said there would be conflict of interest in hiring Cerwin Eviota as consultant of the Office of the Mayor because he is also connected with Filinvest Land Incorporated.

 “With the issues between FLI and the city government, there would be conflict of interest,” Osmeña said.

Eviota was appointed City Hall consultant starting July until December 2014. Eviota, however, said there is no conflict of interest in it because FLI and the city government are partners in development.

“In my view, we see no conflict of interest as we are not an organic employee of either but an on call external consultant,” Eviota said, adding that FLI and the city government even complement and support each other as “venture partners.”

The City Council has deferred the approval of the resolution authorizing Mayor Michael Rama to enter into and sign the renewal of the contract of services of Eviota pending the study and recommendation of the Committee on Laws and City Legal Office. Eviota said he will adhere to whatever opinion of the committee on laws and the city legal office would be.

The city government is currently having issues with FLI. In fact, Rama issued in May an ultimatum for FLI to settle its monetary obligation with the city government. The city earlier billed FLI at least P800 million for its joint venture agreement at the South Road Properties.— (FREEMAN)