BOPK supporters block Team Rama rally

CEBU, Philippines - Team RAMA candidates failed to hold a political rally at Sitio San Miguel in Barangay Apas on Thursday evening after some supporters of Bando Osmeña Pundok-Kauswagan (BOPK) prevented them from entering the homeowners’ association’s basketball court.

Tension erupted after Barangay Captain Ramil Ayuman arrived and decided to break the chain installed by the officials of the homeowners’ association at the entrance of the basketball court.

Ayuman used to be a BOPK supporter, but Osmeña got mad at him after the Apas Barangay Council endorsed the establishment of the Ciudad Project along Governor Mariano Cuenco Avenue.

Because of the tension, members of the PNP Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT) were sent to the place to help maintain order.

The Archangels Residents Mergence Inc. (Armi) Homeowners’ Association is supporting the candidacy of Cebu City South District Representative Tomas R. Osmeña who is challenging the reelection bid of Mayor Michael Rama.

Osmeña had extended help to the residents when he stopped the court from destroying the houses of over 100 families who are occupying the lot claimed by a certain Mariano Godinez.

The tension eased only after Councilor Eduardo “Edu” Rama decided to transfer the venue of their political rally to the Apas Barangay Sports Complex.

Rama said the BOPK supporters should not prevent them from holding political activities in that area and warned them against doing it again, particularly during the campaign period.

According to Rama, he will not hesitate to file appropriate charges before the court if the supporters of his opponent will do this a second time.   (FREEMAN)