Vicente Rama bust unveiled

CEBU, Philippines —  In celebration of the 82nd Charter Day, a bust and mural commemorating the legacy of Don Vicente Rama were unveiled yesterday at Rama Compound, Basak San Nicolas, Cebu City.

Former mayor Michael Rama led the ceremonies along the Rama-Limchiu clan.

The unveiling started with a mass officiated by Archbishop Jose Palma.

In his homily, he reminded the present politicians about the eight beatitudes of being a good politician and public servant.

The archbishop said Don Vicente Rama was an example of a good politician.

"Good politics is at the service of peace. Salamat sa tanan na nagserbisyo pinaagi sa politika. We pray that in May, the Lord will give us politicians according to the beatitudes," Palma said.

Among those present was Sen. Nancy Binay and members of PDP Laban and Team Barug who are running this coming election.

Don Vicente Rama is known as the “father of the Cebu City charter” because he authored the bill converting the municipality of Cebu to Cebu City when he was a member of the House of Representatives last 1937.

Michael Rama said it was right that the bust be erected in the compound to remind the younger generation of the Ramas about the legacy and character of their grandfather.

"The most important for the Rama is legacy. Money is not everything, honor not even, but legacy is very important for the Rama Limchiu Family."

Behind the bust, a mural was also erected depicting the city's past, present, and future.

"All of us must be reminded that Cebu City must be brought back to its glory and elegance, where corruption, autocracy, and arrogance should be eliminated while service above self must be prioritized," Rama said.

Fernando Rama Jr., the eldest grandson of Don Vicente, said his grandfather was not a politician but a statesman who thought about the future of Cebu and contributed an honest service to everyone.

The Rama clan is confident that in the next years, the Cebuano people will still be celebrating the legacy of their grandfather.

"I’m 100% sure Cebu City will make it to its millennial celebration. The city will be brought to the next level if all of us will share the same ideals," said Lambert Quizon, one of the great grandsons.  —Isabella G. Obor, USJR Intern MBG (FREEMAN)