MCWD directors told: Shape up or face axe

CEBU, Philippines — Government leaders, pressed by complaints from their constituents regarding the lack of water supply in their homes, are now demanding an improved service from the Metropolitan Cebu Water District.

Mayor Edgardo Labella said he may consider appointing new members of the MCWD board of directors if it continues to fail to address the problem.

At a press conference yesterday, the mayor said he already sent a letter to MCWD expressing his “disgust” after complaints on the lack of water supply have piled up, stressing that he has also experienced “waterless days” in his house in Mabolo.

SM eyes Carbon market dev’tCebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella has announced that a private firm has proposed to develop the entire Carbon Public Market in Barangay Ermita into a “modern market.”

During the Executive- Legislative Agenda Formulation Workshop yesterday, Labella said that the proposed plan aims to construct a modern three-story building in Carbon.

This structure will accommodate stalls, parking areas, “bagsakan” or a place where goods are delivered, and commercial spaces.

“The entire Carbon area will look like a modern market based on the ones in other Asian countries, in China particularly,” said Labella.

 Labella stated that SM Prime Holdings Inc. is yet to submit its proposal to the city government office, but he was already given an idea that the model for project is the SM Marketmall in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

“One thing that we really have to look into is if it will be truly beneficial for the city, that we will be at an advantageous position,” said Labella.

He added that the city will not shell out money for the project because SM will shoulder all the expenses for the construction of the building and they “will only occupy the land.”

The entire three-story building will be shared by SM and the city government.

“We will see to it that all the conveniences of a modern market will be placed,” said Labella.

Labella said that as soon as SM submits the proposal, he will submit it to the joint venture committee for appraisal and recommendation.

There is a possibility that Carbon Public Market’s units 1-3 will be demolished once the project starts.

 During the same workshop, both Labella and Vice Mayor Michael Rama vowed to support the plans and programs of the city within their terms. — JMD (FREEMAN)