Gealon, new Traffic Management Committee chief: There’s a lot of work to do

Gealon replaces former TMC chief, lawyer Rico “Koko” Rey Francis Holganza

Councilor Rey Gealon is the new head of the Traffic Management Committee (TMC), formerly known was CITOM. | Photo courtesy of Cebu City PIO

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Councilor Rey Gealon is the new chairperson of the Traffic Management Committee (TMC), formerly known as the City Traffic Operations Management (CITOM).

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama made his announcement during the flag ceremony on Monday, September 25, appointing Gealon as the new TMC chief.

He would replace lawyer Rico “Koko” Rey Francis Holganza, who resigned from the TMC, according to the mayor.

Gealon is also the council’s chair of the committee on laws, ordinances, and styling.

READ: CCTO: Part of N. Bacalso Avenue closed for 2 months for BRT lane construction

Gealon: Traffic management a tall order

In a statement sent by Gealon to CDN Digital on Wednesday, September 27, he said that traffic management in the city is a “tall order.”

“I sincerely thank the mayor for the trust and confidence he continues to repose upon me,” he said.

He added that as the chairman, he needs all the necessary help for effective and efficient traffic management, especially from the members of the TMC, the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) personnel, and from the motorists and pedestrians.

“During the good mayor’s previous administration (in 2013), he appointed me as CCTO’s executive director where the full force of the office then was able to hurdle traffic challenges that arose from both local and international events – and consequently, was hailed as the best department of the city government,” he added.

READ: CCTO: Part of Osmeña Blvd near Capitol to be closed to traffic for 20 days

Take criticisms constructively

On his new appointment, Gealon revealed there were still things that were needed to be done.

“While this field is not new to me, there is still a lot of learning and a way lot of working to be done,” he said.

The councilor added that he would perform the functions in his office to the best of his abilities and capabilities.

When asked how he would address the criticisms against the CCTO especially from a Facebook page originally created as Cebu City Public Information Office in May 2012, Gealon said he would already take all the criticism constructively.

CDN Digital also asked him what would be the difference having him on board, he expressed he would fulfill his responsibilities. 

“I believe all those who pass this way had the purest and noblest intention to serve the best interest of the people. I will endeavor to dispense with the duties and responsibilities of the office with utmost fidelity, accountability, and ability,” Gealon said. 

READ: CCTO implements parallel parking along Fuente Osmeña Circle as BRT works continue