Ban-tal development Moratorium Rama: Not until traffic is solved

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama clarified yesterday that the moratorium against any commercial development in the Ban-Tal area will not be lifted until the city government is able to ease the traffic there.

Rama said there are things that need to be done first, including the widening of road and his plan to establish more road networks to decongest the existing roads.

He has, however, tasked City Traffic Operations and Management Board Chairman Sylvan “Jack” Jakosalem to study the basis of the moratorium that was implemented through a council resolution passed during the time of former mayor Tomas Osmeña.

The city is also negotiating with lot owners to donate a portion of their property for the road right of way.

Rama said that the money for the widening of the Mahiga Bridge near the Gaisano Country Mall is readily available. It will be provided by the national government.

The Provincial Capitol, when asked if they are willing to donate for road right of way, did not give a categorical answer.

But Capitol Spokesperson Rory John Sepulveda said that they do not discount the fact that Rama and Governor Gwendolyn Garcia are more civil with each other than the former city mayor.

“This matter will be thoroughly considered and studied by the Governor. We can expect an appropriate response in due time. Be that as it may, we must not lose sight of the fact that the present atmosphere of civility and cordiality breeds mutual understanding and cooperation,” Sepulveda said in a text message. — (FREEMAN)