Rama assures support for all elected barangay officials regardless of affiliation

CEBU, Philippines – Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama assured all elected barangay officials that they will get equal support from his administration regardless of their affiliation.

Rama said everyone is welcome in his administration that he calls "the people's administration" under his principle of "togetherness."

The Mayor said that even those who were defeated in the election but wish to seek his support for any endeavors that they intend to do to help the barangay in any capacity are welcome.

"This is not the time to be putting lines. They are all welcome in my office. I want to serve everybody. We will journey as one," Rama said.

According to Rama, he will not be a hindrance to the projects of the members of the opposition who made it in last Monday's elections. Most of the winning candidates however are allied with Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan.

Of the 80 barangays in Cebu City only five opposition-supported candidates won. They are Pastor Alcover II of Barangay Agsungot, Eugenio Gabuya of Cogon-Pardo, Jovito Taborada of Lahug, Rodrigo Jabellana of Bulacao and Jerry Guardo of Sambag I.

The five are perceived allies of Kugi Uswag Sugbo of former Cebu City Mayor Alvin Garcia.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections has reminded all winning candidates to start preparing their statements of campaign contributions and expenses.

Cebu City South District election officer Edwin Cadungog said the winning candidates are given only 30 days from proclamation to accomplish such.

Cadungog said that they better submit this post election requirement otherwise they will be barred from holding office or from doing their functions as newly elected barangay officers.

Only winning candidates, however, are compelled to submit his or her statement of expenditures. Cadungog said that defeated candidates are exempted as provided by Section 14 of Republic Act 881 or the Omnibus Election Code.

Aside from being barred from holding office, failure to submit will subject the violator to a fine of P1,000 to P30,000.  (FREEMAN)