Rama to developers: I’ll face your complaint

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama said he is willing to face the complaint filed against him and other city officials.

The mayor was referring to the case filed by Bowen and Lili Holdings, Co. Inc.; Siddharta Holdings, Co. Inc.; Benjamin Hermanos Holdings. Co., Inc.; Gyeongju Development Corporation; and Benjamin D. Gothong for allegedly denying their application for a building permit despite compliance with the requirements.

Other sued officials were Office of the Building Official head Jose Marie Poblete, assistant OBO head Florante Catalan, and staff Bernabe Pateno.

The complainants alleged that they have been complying with the necessary requirements for the construction of a 30-storey building along Llorente St., Barangay Capitol Site, but the city had also been denying even their second application for a building permit.

Rama said he conducted an ocular inspection at the development site and noticed a “clear” violation from the developers.

“I think that’s good that the case is filed so that it can now be ventilated because if I have my way, I want that building cut,” the mayor said.

Rama said if the developers want to “fight” with the City Hall, he will face them.

“If they will win, I will respect. But if we will win, please don’t let them expect the same relationship again,” the mayor warned, saying the case will be handled by the city legal office.

Poblete, for his part, said he will reserve his comment after reading the complaint.

He said that as far as he can remember, OBO has already issued building permits to the developers. — (FREEMAN)