Boosting IT services among Ong’s priority measures

CEBU, Philippines — Expanding the information technology (IT) services in Cebu City is among the priority legislative measures of ex-officio Councilor Franklyn Ong.

“I will expand the IT services from ID to software program and training that can be used by the barangays in their clearances, data and information gathering, and assist in the connectivity within and among barangays,” Ong said in his first privilege speech at the City Council yesterday.

Ong, Kasambagan village chief and Association of Barangay Councils-Cebu City chapter president, said he will also set up a legal team for consultation and other legal services for the barangay officials.

“These are just but a few of the many things I want to do for my fellow barangay officials. I am confident that with the help of the honorable members of the council and our departments, we can do so much more,” he said.

Moreover, Ong expressed his deepest gratitude to Mayor Tomas Osmeña for the trust and confidence in his leadership.

Ong was elected as ABC president last July 30.

Ong got the 51 votes from Bando Osmeña-Pundok Kauswagan (BOPK)-allied captains during the ABC elections, while Mabolo Barangay Captain Prisca Niña Mabatid got zero.

The council composition at the moment is 10-8, in favor of BOPK.

BOPK councilors are Margarita Osmeña, Sisinio Andales, Joy Augustus Young, Jerry Guardo, Eugenio Gabuya Jr., Alvin Arcilla, David Tumulak, Mary Ann Delos Santos, ex-officio member Jessica Resch, president of the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, and Ong.

The opposition includes Jocelyn Pesquera, Eduardo Rama Jr., Pastor "Jun" Alcover Jr., Jose Daluz III, Joel Garganera, Raymond Alvin Garcia, Renato "Junjun" Osmeña Jr., and newly-appointed councilor, Erik Espina, who replaced dismissed councilor James Cuenco. — KBQ (FREEMAN)