Bangon Cosolacion seeks reforms, hits Alegados

CEBU, Philippines — A coalition of urban poor groups, fisherfolks, senior citizens and other affiliations called “Bangon Consolacion Movement” are pushing for reforms and challenged the long-standing political dominance of the Alegado family in Consolacion, northern Cebu.

In a press conference held yesterday, convenor Joe Tomongha addressed the alleged abuses and inefficiencies of the current administration. Numerous key issues have been raised by the movement, including the worsening traffic congestion in Consolacion.

Tomongha questioned why the administration has shown lack of will to implement traffic solutions when it has enough funds in the coffer, with a reported P2.2 billion in assets and it has been declared the wealthiest town in 2023.

“Dato kaayo ang lungsod pero pobre kaayo ang serbisyo,” he pointed out.

Another thing the coalition is opposing is the proposed reclamation project in Barangay Tayud. He said it would negatively impact the environment and could displace local fishers who rely on the sea for their livelihood.

Fisherfolk leader Teddy Tibon raised alarm over the impact on their livelihoods, saying, “Unsa naman lay panginabuhian sa mga mananagat kung kining lugara puno sa reclamation?”

The coalition also expressed concerns over the reported large-scale quarrying operations in the town's mountain areas. An online petition has been launched to stop these activities, Tomongha said.

The Bangon Consolacion Movement claimed that the quarrying operations could not have continued without the approval of local officials.

Rubin Dela Cerna,a resident and urban poor leader, on the other hand, expressed his apprehension on a possible mass demolitions.

“Unta di nalang nila i-demolish among gipuy-an kay kung maguba na, asa naman sad mi paingon?,” he said.

Tomongha said the Alegado family has been in politics for nearly 15 years. He said this has led to political stagnation and a lack of independent decision-making among local officials.

“Nakita nato sa present administration nagpaabot lang ug unsay gusto or command sa mayor," he said.

Despite it's opposition against the current administration, Bangon Consolacion clarified that the group is not affiliated with any rival political parties. The coalition said it is still evaluating potential candidates who are aligned with its principles and advocacies.

Mayor Teresa "Nene" Alegado is seeking a reelection this May 12 midterm polls, with her son, former mayor Joannes Alegado as her running mate under the Alagad Party.

Businesswoman and former Barangay chief Blessilda "Bingol" Villo is challenging the reelectionist incumbent mayor under the banner of Usa Consolacion PDP Laban Party.

The Freeman tried to contact Mayor Alegado via text message for her statement but it has not received any response as of writing. — JG (FREEMAN)