6 council members a no-show at Chan inaugural speech

CEBU, Philippines — Only nine of Lapu-Lapu City’s 15 council members were present during the inaugural session yesterday where new Mayor Junard Chan delivered his first address.

Those were Vice Mayor Celedonio Sitoy, and council members Marcial Abapo Ycong, Ricardo Amores, Efren Tumulak Herrera, Quennie Malingin Ammann, Alexander Mata Gestopa Jr., Jan Vincent Amistad Dela Serna, Gregorio Amit Paquibot Jr., and Nelson Oyao Yap.

Absent were Rex Alcantara Mangubat, Flaviano Abing Hiyas Jr., Laika Tampus, Rodolfo Potot, Jose Patalinghug Dungog, and Eduardo Cuizon, who sent excuse letters citing “important matters.”

In his speech, Chan told the council that he will fulfill his campaign promises to the Oponganons.

At the top of his agenda, he said, is free college education for the youth.

Chan said he will also focus on improving the quality of healthcare by bringing these services closer to more people, especially those who have no access to it.

In an effort to alleviate poverty and unemployment, Chan also promised to institutionalize livelihood training programs which will give Oponganons opportunity to land better jobs in the city’s thriving businesses and locators at the city’s business zones.

He also promised to address flooding, traffic, criminality, and drugs, as well as corruption, garbage, tourism and basic services.

"As I institute the changes I promised to our fellow Oponganons, admittedly, I cannot do this alone. Like any great general, I need to rally my best soldiers behind,” Chan said. — Bonen A. Clarin, CNU Intern/KBQ (FREEMAN)