Urban poor thank PNoy for Rama suspension

CEBU, Philippines - “We support Rama’s Suspension because Arrogance and Mismanagement are Anti-Cebu.”

These words were emblazoned in one of the streamers now hanging along F. Ramos Extension in Barangay Capitol Site in support of the 60-day preventive suspension imposed on Mayor Michael Rama.

“Thanks, Mr. President! Thoughtless demolition deserves suspension,” another banner screamed.

The third streamer also thanked the President Benigno Aquino III for suspending the mayor.

“Salamat, Mr. President! A mayor who destroys must be disciplined.”

Lito Pasilan, a resident of the area which was previously cleared by the city government of illegal structures, admitted hanging the streamers allegedly upon the request of Capitol Site Barangay Captain Manuel Guanzon.

Guanzon, however, denied giving order to Pasilan. The barangay captain, who is identified with the Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan, said his presence in the area may have been misinterpreted by the residents. But he said he is supporting the move because it is their right to express their sentiments.

Rama was placed under preventive suspension effective December 10. The order was implemented by the Department of Interior and Local Government pending the investigation of the case filed by Labangon Barangay Captain Victor Buendia.

Rama was accused of violating the Constitution, grave abuse of authority, grave misconduct and oppression for ordering the demolition of a median structure along Katipunan Street in Barangay Labangon last year.

 “Ni suporta rapod mi ana kay wala mi gihatagan og relocation. Giguba man among balay. Nagpayag-payag rami karon. Sa 27 ka balay, unom ray gihatagan,” Pasilan said.

Pasilan said he placed the streamers last Saturday night.

Rama ordered the demolition of the houses in the area to “revive” the street which has been occupied by the illegal settlers and some business establishments.

It was the city’s Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification and Enhancement team that demolished at least 26 houses along F. Ramos extension.

It was cited in the order that the demolition was pursuant to Article 694 of the Civil Code of the Philippines (public nuisance), Section 3 of City Ordinance 1481 and Presidential Decree 1096 (Building Code of the Philippines).

Pasilan said his family got P20,000 from the city after the demolition and was assured of the relocation site in Barangay Pit-os. But, until now, he said his family is living in a small shanty in the area because he has not gotten any feedback yet on the relocation.

Rama refused to comment on the streamers saying, he will leave the matter to acting mayor Edgardo Labella.

“It’s up to Edgar. That is what we call matter that will be left for the present AM (acting mayor) to do because if it is a tarpaulin that is illegal, so it would be included to be removed. That is why, it was just timely that the AM have been very clear that no exemption, which is really a good move. And I salute acting mayor for being bold, and being fair to all,” Rama said.

“So, any illegal tarpaulin without any permission from the city government has no place to be seen and being viewed,” he added.

Last week, Labella ordered PROBE to start removing political campaign materials of local and national candidates posted in public places in the city.

Rama believes that the matter was “politically-motivated” as election season is heating up.

 “We just have to remember. In other words, forgiving is there but remembering should be eternal. I always forgive them,” he said.

 “I have said all the time that I am light, so light on the political personalities who might be involved on what had happened,” he added, referring to his suspension. (FREEMAN)