CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama has ordered for the halt of all excavation and digging of roads, including those made in relation to the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) project, effective yesterday, March 11, 2024, as contractors have been called to appear before the Office of the Mayor.
Rama announced this order in his message before Cebu City Hall employees yesterday during the flag-raising ceremony at the Plaza Sugbo grounds.
Among those he discussed is his call to the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW), Local Finance Committee (LFC), and the Cebu City Administrator to facilitate the implementation of the Local Development Fund (LDF), which finances priority development projects of local government unite.
With this, Rama ordered that the diggings and excavations in the city must be aligned with international standards.
“In other words, effective today, all digging of the road should be stopped,” said Rama, adding that he wanted it done yesterday.
“All contractors right away, I will wait for all of them in my office,” he added.
In line with this, Rama has tasked Attorney Jerone Castillo, chairman of the LFC; City Administrator Collin Rosell; Committee on Infrastructure chair of the City Council, Jerry Guardo; among others to coordinate with the contractors.
Rama further said that the Technical Infrastructure Committee (TIC) must “strictly impose” the conditions provided under the excavation permits.
“So, therefore, suspension of all excavation permits pending inspection and compliance,” said Rama.
“No sacred cow. I will be the one (who will) personally supervise the closure, removal of all equipment and have it impounded,” added Rama.
He ordered the preparation of an impounding area where the seized equipment will be placed.
Rama further said that he has ordered the Cebu City Legal Office to prepare potential complaints against those who will not follow this order. — (FREEMAN)