City hall’s HR head mulls running for councilor in 2019

CEBU, Philippines — If given a privilege, Cebu City's Human Resource and Development Office (HRDO) Head Marievelle "Amay" Abella is willing to run for city councilor this May 2019 elections.

Abella told The FREEMAN that she was among the individuals included in the “long list” of Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan (BOPK)’s probable candidates for city councilor.

"I'm in the long list of BOPK's possible candidates but nothing is final pa. I am willing, but I have so many things to consider," she said.

If ever she will run, Abella will be running as city councilor in the south district. It will be her first time to be in the political arena.

Abella started working at Cebu City Hall as part of the Mayor's Management Team (MMT).

About 20 years ago, Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña created the team who will study on how to improve the services in the city government.

Two years ago, she was appointed as HRDO head.

BOPK Councilor Eugenio Gabuya Jr. admitted that she is willing to endorse Abella because he believes that the latter has something to offer for the city.

He told The FREEMAN that the mayor reportedly mentioned Abella in their party meetings.

"She was mentioned, (the) mayor wants young blood...Sa iyang intelligence and honesty, she can be very well enhance good governance," he said.

However, he clarified that this is subject for further discussions within the group.

In a separate interview, Councilor Sisinio Andales decided not to preempt the disclosure of the official slate of BOPK, saying the filing of certificate of candidacy is near.

"I cannot pre-empt the final slate of BOPK until Mayor Tommy will publicly announce whether Atty. Abella be included in the south district councilors," he said.

Meanwhile, Mabolo Barangay Captain Prisca Niña Mabatid told The FREEMAN that the camp of Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella wants her to run for city councilor.

However, she has yet to decide for she has to weigh things.

"The chance is there but I have to consider a lot of things gyud. Let's see on September 28," Mabatid said.

The filing of COCs will be on October 11 to 17 this year. (FREEMAN)