Mayoral bet banks on tech, engineering background

CEBU, Philippines — Independent mayoral candidate Gepind Requierme considers his background in engineering and skills in information technology as his competitive edge as he runs for the highest position in Mandaue City Government in the upcoming midterm elections.

In his appearance on The Freeman’s “Know Your Candidate,” Requierme pledged to promote economic growth, ensure peace and order, and implement infrastructure projects to address pressing issues in Mandaue City, such as traffic congestion and flooding.

Requierme, who completed an associate degree in information technology, said he decided to run for mayor because he believes he has the capability and potential to lead the city.

He said he managed his father’s machine shop business for 16 years, where he acquired his engineering background.

With such experience, Requierme said it would be easier for him to partner with businessmen and investors to help develop the city.

He shared that in the last local elections, he also ran for the vice mayoral seat but failed to win. However, with many people encouraging him to run, he decided to do so—this time, aiming for the position of local chief executive.

Plans and projects

Requierme promised that if elected mayor, he will use his knowledge in IT to promote cybersecurity, protect government data, and apply these practices to other agencies during his term.

He also emphasized the need to strengthen cybersecurity, noting that cybercrime has become rampant in Mandaue City and poses a problem that could discourage businesses from investing in the area.

With this, Requierme plans to reduce crime, particularly cyber-related incidents, aiming to attract more investors and businesses to Mandaue City.

He further explained that with peace and security, the city will regain the trust and confidence of businesses and investors, ultimately boosting the economic growth of Mandaue City.

“If there is a reduction in crime, of course, investors will be encouraged to invest in their businesses,” said Requierme.

Requierme said that the advancement of technology, once he becomes mayor, will not be limited to governance but will also extend to business management.

He said that through the proper use of the internet and technology, business processes can be streamlined, and anomalies and corruption—particularly in government offices and agencies—can likewise be traced.

In terms of economic development, Requierme plans to build more commercial and industrial establishments, offering job opportunities to Mandauehanons.

He also plans to develop a vacant lot in Barangay Umapad into a business center and business park, which will not only create jobs but also offer recreational activities for Mandauehanons, contributing to the creation of a livable city.

In the same barangay, Requierme also envisions building a flyover leading to Lapu-Lapu City to address traffic congestion.

For now, the immediate solution Requierme sees to address traffic in Mandaue City is to update the traffic lights at intersection roads and increase the visibility of traffic enforcers to penalize violators.

As he vies for the mayoral seat, Requierme vows that the majority of the city’s budget will be allocated primarily to infrastructure projects.

Requierme said that while he may be a neophyte in politics, his skills, heart, and mindset to serve the Mandauehanons give him an edge over his opponents.

“Nakita nako if musulod ko og politika, mas mulabaw akong pag contribute sa mga tao. I have the heart to serve the people,” said Requierme. – /ATO (FREEMAN)