Mayor Rama no longer pushing for bullet-proof vehicle

CEBU, Philippines — After initially insisting on a bullet-proof vehicle, Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama says he is okay with or without it.

On a live feed from Australia during the simultaneous tree-lighting activity from the Compania Maritima, Rama mentioned that while he appreciates the proposal to provide him with a bullet-proof car, he said he’s fine if it won’t push through.

Rama, who congratulated City Treasurer Mare Vae Reyes during the live feed for the latter’s feat being awarded as the “Top performing local treasurer" under the Seal of Excellence in Local Finance(SELF) Award, said he is proud of Reyes and the whole City Treasurer’s Office and told them to continue working and not think about the bullet-proof vehicle that his office requested earlier.

“Paghugpong mo local finance committee. Ayaw mog huna-huna anang bullet-proof, bullet proof (vehicle). Naanad gani kong wala gyud koy guardya, wala ko nag huna-huna ana,” Mayor Rama said.

While it has been approved by the City Council, the request has received backlash, particularly on the amount of P10 million for the vehicle.

Rama has earlier explained why the bullet-proof vehicle is needed. He has shared that the security of mayors all over the country was discussed under the League of Cities of the Philippines following ambush of some politicians in the country.

Rama has been quoted as saying last Sunday that he is thankful to City administrator Atty. Collin Rosell along with Atty. Jerone Castillo, who heads the city’s finance team, for thinking about his security.

“Dako kog pasalamat nimo bro, Atty. Collin Rosell, nga imong gihuna-huna akong safety. Pero ayaw mog kagu-ol ana, everything is not for me,” Mayor Rama said.

“Bullet-proof or no bullet proof, my real bullet proof is my pure heart..and my dear mind,” Mayor Rama said, while stressing that “my real defender and protector is God himself, and of course Sto.Nino, uban sa akong pamilya.”

The mayor just hopes for continued prayers for him to be able to perform his duties well.

“Palihog lang, i-ampo ko niyo. Ang akong pag barug dili gyud maguba sa mga yawan-on nga muguba nako. Ako na na silang gipasaylo, gi hangad ko na na sila sa Ginoo. We live only once, we must bring the best. Christmas of forgiving, giving, sharing, bringing Jesus as our focal point. Ayaw mog kaapektar sa mga tawong mubuga ninyo, kay kana sila, gipuy-an nag yawa, mao ng uban sila palaaway. Be united--the family that prays together, stays together. When we are united, nobody can destroy us,” he said. — (FREEMAN)