Shimura goes on indefinite leave

CEBU, Philippines — Daanbantayan Mayor Sun Shimura has filed an indefinite leave of absence as president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) in Cebu due to pressing concerns in his town and personal matter.

In a letter addressed to Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia dated July 21, 2022, Shimura said he needs to focus on several concerns following the deaths of his budget officer and a member of the Municipal Council.

 ”In view of the pressing concerns in my municipality due to untimely demise of my Budget Officer and SB Member including the health condition of my father who is based in Japan and suffering for Stage 3 cancer, which from time to time necessitates my presence, I most respectfully manifest my intention to file for an indefinite leave of absence as LMP President for Cebu Province until further notice,” Shimura’s letter reads.

Last July 17, budget officer Marissa Monterde Cruz drowned after falling into a manhole in Medellin town. Yesterday, the LGU also announced on social media the passing of Councilor Juanito Ybañez on July 21, 2022 due to cardiac arrest.

 On personal matter, Shimura said he also needs to attend to his ailing father in Japan every now and then. In his absence, the league’s vice president for internal, Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado, will assume the duties and responsibilities of the president.

Shimura was elected president of the LMP-Cebu last week without an opponent. — FPL (FREEMAN)