Ouano reiterates opposition to ASEAN summit holidays

Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Ouano yesterday reiterated his aversion to the presidential proclamation declaring Dec. 11 to 14 as special non-working holidays in Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu when these cities co-host the ASEAN Summit. At the same time, former senator John Henry "Sonny" Osmeña said the holidays are unnecessary.

Ouano strongly believes that the holidays would hamper economic activity.

"We want to showcase Cebu man kaha? How can we showcase to the world kung sirado ang tanan natong mga business establishments? Especially the banks, it will hamper our economic activity," Ouano said.

Ouano said he had talked with Councilor Carlo Pontico Fortuna telling him to bring up the matter with Erico Aumentado, the secretary-general of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines.



The former senator, when sought for comment, said the four-day holiday is unnecessary. He had been to several international conferences but those days were not declared holidays.

"Mas maayo pa magsinumbagay na silang duha, they deserve each other," the former senator said referring to Ouano and Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña.

The former senator also criticized Arroyo for moving dates of holidays, wherein according to him is only promoting the culture of laziness instead of promoting the culture of industry and hardwork.

Ouano, when informed about what the former senator said, just laughed at it insisting that he and Tomas Osmeña are on good terms.

Ouano has suggested that the holidays should not include business sector.



Tomas Osmeña, the proponent of the 4-day holiday said his reason for the holidays is to encourage residents to stay home or go out of town as they would during the observance of the Holy Week.

"But if parents have to work, the kids won't leave town so this whole exercise is hilaw. The threat is very real," Mayor Osmeña said.

Ouano said the success of the ASEAN Summit would depend on how the summit venue can provide the right atmosphere and ambience conducive to fruitful negotiations and long-term international relations.

Ouano said the summit will bring the city to the limelight, not only nationally but also internationally and hosting this international event is one opportunity that the city government cannot afford to pass up. - Mitchelle P. Calipayan