‘Paradise’ shelter turned over; seniors’ park relaunched

CEBU, Philippines —  The Mandaue City government, together with the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry and other private sectors, formally turned over the “Pasilong para sa Paradise” which is a temporary shelter of the fire victims of Sitio Paradise in Barangay Looc yesterday.

“Akong dakung pasalamat sa atong mga kaigsoonan nga nakigtambayayong sa kagamhanan sa Mandaue City aron atong mahatagan ang mga biktima sa sunog og desente nga pinuy-anan,” said Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes who led the turnover activity.

A massive fire hit Sitio Paradise last November 22, 2022 that left 670 families or 2,678 individuals homeless.

In his Facebook post, the mayor said that together with MCCI, LH Foundation, Inc., Chong Hua Hospital, Cebu Mandaue Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Inc., VIC Enterprises, Worldwide Steel Group Inc. among other have helped together in building the temporary shelter while the permanent structure has still to be built.

“Sa evacuation center atong nakita ang lisud nga kahimtang sa mga biktima sa sunog hinungdan nga angayan na gyud sila ibalhin aron adunay hamugaway ug desente nga pinuy-anan samtang tukoron nato ang permanente nilang kapuy-an nga medium-rise housing project ngadto mismo sa lugar nila sa Brgy. Looc,” the mayor added.

Seniors’ Park

Meanwhile, in Lapu-Lapu City, the renovation of the Senior Citizen’s Park located near the Mandaue Cebu-Mactan Bridge was relaunched as the Bridge Park on March 17, 2023.

It can be recalled that during the campaign period, Mayor Junard Chan has promised to revamp the park after receiving several complaints that the area has been desolated for too long.

What was once a lackluster park is now transformed into a new green open space in Lapu-Lapu City that features the tranquil sight of the two majestic bridges.

Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Representative Cindi King-Chan said that she wanted to embrace inclusivity by not only limiting the park to senior citizens but to all Oponganons as well.

Now, not only senior citizens but also their kids and families can enjoy a landscaped park that provides an experience of serenity and reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

The mayor on the other hand is delighted to see the results of the park’s rehabilitation and hopes to conduct future city events there.

Currently, the park is now open to general public. The city government with the aid of the Office of the Congresswoman will further work on the beautification of the park aiming to attract not only the locals but foreign tourists as well. —  GMR (FREEMAN)