Guardo to apologize to Rep. Osmeña?

CEBU, Philippines - Businessman Jonathan Guardo will reportedly apologize publicly to Cebu City South District Rep. Tomas Osmeña over his statement last year that the former mayor prevented him from distributing food packs to fire victims in Barangay Calamba.

Osmeña said Guardo is expected to make the apology on Friday during the scheduled mediation proceedings at the office of the Philippine Mediation Center (PMC) at the Palace of Justice.

Osmeña sued Guardo for libel for telling the media that the Cebu City officials attempted to block him when he was giving food packs to fire victims in Barangay Calamba. This reportedly happened during the campaign period in the 2010 national and local elections.

On Friday, Guardo is expected to clarify that this was not the case, Osmeña told The FREEMAN.

“No problem with me as long as he apologizes to the city government,” Osmeña said in a text message. “It’s my duty to defend the city government,” he added.

All the south district city councilors have reportedly been informed about the development so they could attend the mediation proceedings if they want.

Osmeña defeated Guardo during the May 10, 2010 elections when both of them ran for congressman for the city’s south district. At that time, Guardo said his remarks were mere opinions and did not constitute libel. He entered a not guilty plea when arraigned in court.

Osmeña did not respond when asked if there is a chance he will reconcile with his former political ally.   - (THE FREEMAN)