Mayor Michael Rama: No more trash, street dwellers by June

CEBU, Philippines — Starting June 12, Independence Day, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama wants the city to be liberated from the litters on the streets, including street dwellers.

As part of the city’s broad campaign for cleanliness to achieve a Singapore-like vision, Rama said he does not want to see garbage on streets and people sleeping along the streets by then.

"June 12, dili nako gusto makakita og garbage 24/7. June 12, dili nako gusto makakita og mga tawo nga mangatulog (sa dalan )," said Rama.

There was no mention, however, where to place the street dwellers or if the city has a shelter for the homeless.

Rama said he will take to task anyone caught violating laws protecting the environment. There will be strict implementation in the suppression of things that harm the environment like burning of garbage or locally known as “daob.”

According to Rama, such practice does not only harm the environment, it also poses danger to public health.

The mayor said each barangay will have a very significant role to play toward achieving his goal of a Singapore-like Cebu City.

Last year, Rama issued an executive order dubbed as "Oplan Disiplina" enjoining everyone to maintain discipline to keep Cebu City orderly and peaceful. Under the Oplan Disiplina, all people within the jurisdiction of Cebu City must obey the rules.

This year, the city also launched "Oplan Panindot sa Palibot" with First Lady Malou Rama leading the beautification campaign. She is assisted Arlie Gesta, head of the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office-CCENRO.

Among the activities undertaken by the first lady include ornamental tree planting and mural paintings in the different barangays. — FPL (FREEMAN)