MANILA, Philippines – Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim yesterday approved controversial Ordinance 7177, which would allow the Pandacan oil depot to continue operating in the city.

Lim claimed that it was one of the most difficult and painful decisions he has faced since he assumed office, considering the Supreme Court ruling ordering with finality the depot’s closing down.

He stressed his decision did not contradict the high tribunal’s ruling.

Ordinance 7177 in effect amends Ordinance 8027 under which parts of Sta. Ana and Pandacan were reclassified from industrial to commercial zones, therefore banning the operations of the oil depot.

“In effect, the SC decision did not close an alternative remedy for the city. In fact, it even impliedly gave some specific remedies such as repealing or amending the ordinance,” Lim explained. “Taking cue from the wordings of the SC, our Sanggunian passed Ordinance 7177.”

“No matter how the public perceives my decision, I stand firmly by it. After all, the mark of a true leader is to make the right decision, however unpopular it may be,” he added.

Lim made the announcement around noon before city hall employees and officials that include Vice Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno and majority councilors who were proponents of the measure.

Jubilant cheers erupted from supporters the oil depot as soon as Lim announced his decision.

They included residents who claimed that the facility has been beneficial to them, particularly in providing livelihood for their families.

Pressing reasons

Lim cited several “pressing reasons” that led him to approve Ordinance 7177.

He said he took into consideration the adverse effect to the city’s economy and social programs if they would ask multinational companies to move out of the city.

“To forego this revenue would mean foregoing basic services that are badly needed,” he said. “The city government uses their taxes in providing free education and health care benefits, among others, to residents.”

“These are undisputed facts that we should consider and fear more as they are sure to happen than the uncertain fear of speculative terrorist attacks and environmental concerns,” the mayor stressed.

Lim said that while special focus was being given on the so-called Big 3 oil players, there were actually a total of 145 huge industries operating in Pandacan and that vetoing Ordinance 7177 would displace at least 10,000 workers presently employed in these companies.

He also took note of pronouncements by the oil companies that once they were forced to relocate, the expenses to be entailed would compel them to raise the prices of their products.

Lim also said he considered the safety and security of the people in the area.

When sought for comment, Councilor Ma. Lourdes Isip-Garcia, an advocate of the depots’ relocation, said they would question the validity of the ordinance before the Supreme Court.