Zafra back at City Hall

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama’s chief of staff yesterday reported back to work after several days of absence, ending speculations that he is resigning after being scolded by the mayor.

Philip Zafra received a hug from Rama who welcomed him back at the City Hall shortly before noon yesterday.  The mayor also thanked Zafra for coming back.

Secretary to the mayor Belinda Navascues earlier confirmed to reporters that Zafra was planning to resign. Navascues said that Zafra was upset after he was scolded by Rama because of his alleged failure to attend to the needs of the people who visited the office of the mayor.

Zafra was reportedly heard saying, “goodbye forever” after the incident. Since then he did not show up in his office at the City Hall until yesterday.

City Hall reporters tried to ask Zafra about his reported plan to resign but the latter said, “my presence here is the answer.” (FREEMAN)