"It's a good start and a welcome talking point. A good start always carries the promise of hope and bright tomorrows," Governor Gwen Garcia told reporters yesterday morning.
The governor said her interest in the proposal stemmed from her concern towards the northern Cebu people who are using the terminal facility. "And I am glad to note that the mayor has stated his interest in turning this over to the province."
The governor said the matter was brought to her attention by Cebu City administrator Francisco "Bimbo" Fernandez, who went to her office together with military officials for another matter concerning the property owned by the province.
Fernandez was the one tasked by the mayor to open up the proposal to her.
Garcia said the proposal entails a negotiation with Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Ouano since Capitol might face legal risks considering that Cebu City's operation of the terminal is on the strength of a lease contract with Mandaue City, which owns the property that occupies the terminal.
Ouano is considering the possibility of reclaiming the terminal lot from Cebu City, thus rescinding the contract with the Cebu City government so they can use the property for the expansion of Subangdaku National High School, which is situated behind the terminal.
The legal department of Mandaue City Hall had earlier sent a final notice to the Cebu City Treasurer's Office demanding P2.2 million as payment for the lot's rentals, including the interests.
Cebu City reportedly paid the rentals only after repeated demands for payment.
Although the contract is valid for 25 years or until 2020, Ouano is willing to deal with Capitol once the lot-swapping deal between the province and Cebu City pushes through.
Ouano considers the possibility that the terminal lot would be included in the deal between Capitol and Cebu City. -Cristina C. Birondo