I can’t understand why acting Cebu City Mayor Joy Young has issued a cease and desist order against City Hall staff from proceeding with clearing operations in sitio Bato in Ermita contrary to the order of Mayor Michael Rama just because a few residents oppose the post-fire operation.
The administration’s policy to clear and re-blocking a fire-razed area to correct the practice of residents occupying roadsides which make it difficult for fire trucks to enter. This logical move is for the welfare and safety of residents to avoid a repeat of the disaster.
In his order to stop the clearing operation, Acting Mayor Joy Young talks about demolition when there is no demolition that will happen. Some residents are impatient to return to rebuild in the area that was hit by fire especially with the rainy season about to start.
Apparently Vice Mayor Young is politicking on this issue. He said supporters of Bando Osmeña-Pundok Kauswagan (BO-PK) were not included in the consultation for the reblocking, only those of Team Rama. Young should realize this is no time for politicking. What is of utmost importance is the safety of Bato residents whether they are with BO-PK or Team Rama.
I hope that clearing operation would no longer be delayed.
* * *
Last Thursday, tragedy befell Mabini barangay Captain Rey Oybenes of Cebu City. He was found dead inside his car with a bullet through his chest. Before that, he was seen dumping the body of a woman in Cansumoroy, Balamban town. The corpse belonged to his alleged paramour Rohama Luage.
Many couldn’t believe the turn of events or find any logical reason for the violence except to explain it as a crime of passion. I hope the families of both deceased find peace in their lives and not be bothered by talk about the relationship of the two fatalities or find a way to cope with the scandal.
* * *
I had the opportunity to interview Cebu City Vice Mayor-elect Edgar Labella last Friday and found him to be humble, articulate and intelligent. Labella advised victors in the last election against mocking the losing candidates who are still hurting from their defeat.
Labella said he plans to introduce the use of Cebuano in conducting the sessions of the City Council to encourage those who have difficulty speaking in English to express well what is on their minds.
I agree with Labella on this issue especially when he said that in Congress legislators are allowed to speak Tagalog. So why can’t the council in Cebu City speak in the native tongue?
Labella talked of working as an independent but objective city council that will not be obstructionist.
He said the councilors are all reasonable and after the welfare of the city. Labella said he will move for the creation of an executive- legislative council to open communication lines between the mayor and the councilors for better understanding.