Cortes pledges to help Muslims in Mantuyong

CEBU, Philippines - The Muslim community in barangay Mantuyong, Mandaue City has been assured of continued support from the city after Mayor Jonas Cortes learned that some residents in the community have been without electricity since a fire broke out in the place two months ago.

Mayor Jonas Cortes made the assurance Sunday morning during the celebration of the Eid-Al-Fitr at the barangay.

Cortes said he will meet again with Muslim leaders to find out how many residents don’t have electricity and then discuss the problem with VECO.

Cortes also promised the city will help residents own houses through the government’s community mortgage program.

Some residents used the occasion to ask Cortes for permission to sell at sidewalks but the mayor said to allow them to occupy sidewalks will put children at risk.

As an option, the mayor told them to try the night market at the new public market, which the city government started last April, on the condition that they help keep the area clean.

The new public market is located at the back of the Mandaue City Sports Complex.

Market administrator Mosulini Suliva said vendors at the night market do not pay rent but spend for electricity they use every night. – (FREEMAN)