Ayuman defends clearance for Ciudad project

CEBU, Philippines -  Apas Barangay Captain Ramil Ayuman defended his granting of a barangay clearance to the controversial Ciudad project following harsh criticisms he received from South District Rep. Tomas Osmeña.

Ayuman, who acknowledged his political indebtedness to Osmeña, said he signed the clearance for the project because of the economic benefits that it would bring to his constituents.

“Mi-appreciate ko sa Cuidad project even without looking the governor and Congressman Osmeña nga nag-away sila,” Ayuman told reporters.

Osmeña has labeled Ayuman “selfish” for giving clearance to the project.

Ciudad project is a joint venture of the Capitol and 5th Avenue Consortium. It is a multi-use facility that would complement the adjacent IT Park and Cebu Country Club right across.

The project was stalled when the city government suspended in 2007 all development permits at the Banilad-Talamban corridors citing traffic problem.

Ayuman said he met with the developer where he was explained of the details of the project including some technicalities and what economic contributions it would bring to his barangay.

Ayuman said he was convinced that the project will bring not only economic benefits but opens the windows of job opportunities to his constituents.

He said at least 6,000 will be employed if the project will push through.

“Nindot gyud ang concept kay kung ikaw kapitan madasig gyud ka ilabi na on employment aspect,” Ayuman said.

Ayuman did not anymore comment on the statement of Osmeña that he is being selfish.

“Ako taas gyud akong pag-respetar ni Congressman Osmeña kay ato nang giila nga leader. Nahimo ko nga kapitan tungod ni congressman. Ako mitan-aw lang gyud ko kung unsa makuha nga benefit sa among barangay,” Ayuman said. (FREEMAN)