Ayuman refutes Tom’s defense “Tommy is a liar.”

CEBU, Philippines — This was the statement of former Apas barangay captain when asked about his reaction on the counter-affidavit that former Cebu City mayor Tomas Osmeña has filed.

Ayuman sued Osmeña for graft and corruption before the Office of the Ombudsman last September 19, 2019.

“My intention is for the good of the city. I have to do this to stop his bad intention against aning SM-Ayala ug Filinvest,” said Ayuman.

Osmeña had stood firm that he cannot be held criminally liable for questioning the sale of the controversial 45-hectare lot at the South Road Properties (SRP) to the three giant developers in 2015.

“I respectfully submit that I cannot be held criminally liable for questioning the contracts entered into by then mayor (Michael) Rama and the SM-Ayala Consortium and the Filinvest Group,” Osmeña earlier said.

Ayuman said that the Court of Appeals has already favored the city government, stating that the SRP lot sale was valid and legal.

He added that the Regional Trial Court Branch 9 sustained the validity of the city ordinance and resolution authorizing Rama to dispose of the 45-hectare lot.

“These are court facts unya during Osmena’s comeback in 2016 walay major development sa SRP tungod grabe modumot sa politika,” said Ayuman.

“Sayang ang 25,000 employment opportunities ug buhis makuha sa Ayala, SM ug Filinvest,” he added.

Osmeña, in his counter-affidavit submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman, said he should not be blamed for the delay in the development of the property, contrary to Ayuman’s claims.

On December 9, 2019, Osmeña filed graft and corruption cases against Rama and members of the Committee on Awards before the Office of the Ombudsman.

Osmeña also filed a petition for preliminary injunction against the SRP sales.  GAN (FREEMAN)