Council OKs monuments for two former Cebuano leaders

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City council has authorized Mayor Michael Rama to sign in behalf of the city a deed of donation from a private company, to put in place monuments of two Cebuano historical figures in front of the Cebu City hall.

With the donation of Insular Life Assurance Co., Ltd, monuments of Don Sergio Osmeña Sr. and Don Vicente Rama will be soon be found inside Plaza Sugbo and at no expense at all from the city government.

After being approved, the resolution was referred to the Cultural Historical Affairs Commission for further evaluation.

“In view of the plans that the Office of the Mayor of Cebu City has initiated to install sculptural monuments of former gov. Rama and former sen. Osmeña Jr. in one of Cebu City’s properties, the insular life has closely coordinated with renowned Filipino sculptor Eduardo Catrillo for the design and creation of these works of art,” said Enrico Cordoba, vice president of Insular Life Corporate Planning staff in a letter dated July 19.

Once the monuments would be put in place, the agreement states though that the Cebu City government would be responsible in conducting diligent and regular maintenance of the sculptural monuments including repairs and other use and providing appropriate sufficient funds for upkeep.

“The sculptures throughout their serviceable life will remain for public viewing and will not be converted to private and other uses,” stated in the agreement.

Councilor James Cuenco, chairman of the committee on tourism and author of the resolution, said Insular Life has commissioned the sculptor to create two individual life-size sculptural monuments depicting Don Sergio Osmeña Sr. and Don Vicente Rama’s importance and immense contribution to Cebu City.  (FREEMAN)