Tejero puts into writing opposition vs. widening

CEBU, Philippines - The Tejero Barangay Council has decided to come up with a resolution formally requesting Mayor Michael Rama to reconsider his plan of widening to 10 meters two interior roads in the barangay.

The mayor, however, said there is no assurance that he will grant the request.

“Dili ko makapasalig nga aprobahan ang inyong request. Mahimong pito ka metros, walo, siyam o napulo,” Rama told officials of Tejero.

Yesterday, residents of the barangay whose houses and lots will be affected by the planned widening of Uldarico Alviola and Sampaguita Streets went to City Hall to personally speak with the mayor about the matter.

It took Rama almost an hour to explain his plan amidst strong opposition from the families that will be affected. Rama also promised Tejero Barangay Captain Jessielou Cadungog and the members of the barangay council that the affected families will receive financial assistance of up to P10,000.

Cadungog already expressed opposition to the road widening because doing so would displace more families. Rama contended, however, that more families will benefit from wider interior roads, especially during emergencies.

Rama pushed to widen the roads in Tejero after narrow roads prevented firefighters from immediately reaching the fire that broke out at the interior portion of the barangay last July 9. The fire rendered at least 200 families homeless.

The mayor has ordered the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) to quickly attend to the needs of the fire victims and to some residents who have complained of a clogged up drainage system. DEPW engineers assured the residents the drainage project will be completed before Sunday.

“Hala, kon dili nila matuman ang ilang gisaad, hinganli sila og bakakon,” Rama said. (FREEMAN)