City taps stakeholders in street beautification

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City government is building alliance among its stakeholders in beautifying city streets in preparation for the upcoming international events, the city mayor said yesterday.

Cebu City will be holding the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation next year and the International Eucharistic Congress in 2016.

“Constantly, let us be aware of the major activities. Anticipating of having so many activities in that area in days to come,” Mayor Michael Rama told reporters.

This, the city and the management of Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu have agreed for the latter to “adopt and maintain” the center island along Juan Luna Avenue.

“We just agreed formally that they will be adopting the island and the sidewalks fronting its premises, which will be named Radisson Island,” Rama said.

The area, Rama said, received least projects and fund for rehabilitation since 2010, mentioning for instance the availed portion of the P100 million concreting projects shelled out by the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Rama said the hotel will be maintaining the center island with the guidance of the city Parks and Playground Commission and other entities.

“It will be part sa ilang ambiance. The area towards Radisson, will continue to become beautiful,” Rama said, adding that the city will be tapping other stakeholders to take part in the “adoption program” for Cebu’s betterment.

With the fast approaching events, the city and other government agencies have been implementing several undertakings such as the road rehabilitation project of Sergio Osmeña Boulevard; the beautification and enhancement of the Plaza Sugbo grounds, where the century-old Magellan’s cross, one of the famous tourist destinations in Cebu stands.  (FREEMAN)