In Minglanilla: Gullas backs reclamation project

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu First District Representative Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas said he will support any decision of the mayors in his district on the proposed 100-hectare reclamation project in Minglanilla.

"Ako as a congressman, I'm willing to be behind the scenes to help each and every mayor in the district," he said.

Gullas made the statement after some residents of Minglanilla, during a public hearing held at the Minglanilla Sports Center last Thursday, opposed to the proposed reclamation project.

Gullas himself believes that the reclamation is needed to develop an area of the town.

"Hopefully nga mabuhat g'yud ni sa lungsod sa Minglanilla, unya andam kong mosuporta sa unsa'y decision sa mayor and the majority of the council," he stated.

He added that he has talked with Minglanilla Mayor Elanito Peña who said that the reclamation project was a vision of former mayor Eddie Selma for the betterment of the town.

If pushed through, the project will add to the highlights in the municipality for it to be declared a city, aside from the number of its population that has reached the standards.

Project contractor Ming-Mori Development Corporation has already acquired endorsement from the local government unit to the provincial government.

It still needs to provide necessary requirements, though, from the Philippine Reclamation Authority so that the project will be approved and the construction can start soon.

For his part, Jose Soberano III, chairman of Ming-Mori Development Corporation, said they will listen to the concerns of the affected residents as well as their suggestions.

Meanwhile, Talisay City Mayor Eduardo Gullas said that if reclamation projects are also proposed in the city, he will first conduct extensive consultation.

"Kay og dunay objection, dili ipadayon. Mosugot ko pero diri sa sulod, dili sa dagat, kaning mga swampy areas," he said.  (FREEMAN)