CEBU, Philippines — The so-called “faceless” individuals in Carbon area are now given the chance to be employed with the inauguration over the weekend of the Phase 1 of Carbon Tourism Zone.
Mayor Raymond Garcia considers it as a major achievement considering the conflicts that were triggered by the Carbon Market’s redevelopment project.
“I think there is no need for me to reestablish the conflicts that has haunted the progress the Carbon Tourism Zone, after all it is now all water under the bridge,” Garcia said.
Garcia recalled that the disputes resulted in delays and even halted the development for over two years.
“For a time, it seemed the vision of revitalizing this historic zone might never come to life and this area, was a unpleasant hodgepodge of people, goods, vehicles, and even garbage. It truly was something far from what we envisioned Cebu City to be,” said Garcia in his speech.
Earlier, the Carbon redevelopment project got the city government, under the administration of dismissed mayor Michael Rama, into legal conflict with the Cebu Port Authority. The latter claimed ownership of the Compania Maritima Building and its nearby lots where the Puso Village, part of the Carbon Tourism Zone, is located.
The conflict, however, had been set aside with Garcia now at the helm.
“But here we are today, witnessing the fruits of compromise and cooperation. Thanks to the partnership between the City Government, the private sector through Megawide, and the tireless efforts of CCTO, MOD, DPS, Police Station 5, Barangays Ermita and Sto. Niño, Phase 1 of the Carbon Tourism Zone is now a reality,” Garcia said.
A proper lane for push carts (karumatas) has been established while container and delivery vans have its own designated area. The mechanized parking facility will now be utilized.
The problem on waste disposal had also been addressed with the establishment of Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in the area. More to it, Garcia emphasized that the project does not only preserves cultural heritage but also paves the way for sustainable economic growth.
“The heart of this transformation lies not just in the infrastructure but in its impact on the lives of our people. The families who call Carbon their home have long struggled to sustain meaningful employment, often finding themselves vulnerable to vices. Today, these same individuals are gainfully employed, taking on roles that contribute to the continued improvement of the Carbon Tourism Zone,” said Garcia.
“The once “faceless”, have been once again given an identity, value, and a vital role in representing our wonderful city to all who visit here,” he added.
According to Garcia, these individuals are now part of a formal workforce and will be receiving benefits such as SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG.
“This is not just progress—it is empowerment, "Garcia stressed.
Also attended during the inauguration of the Phase 1 of Carbon Tourism Zone were CPA General Manager Kit Comendador, Megawide CEO Edgar Saavedra, Cebu2World President Louie Ferrer, and C2W Deputy General Manager Lyds Eco alongside Cebu City Councilors Jaypee Labella, Joy Pesquera, and Noel Wenceslao. — (FREEMAN)