Mayor’s VETO keeps out moratorium on demolitions

The Cebu City Council  yesterday failed to override the veto of Mayor Michael Rama who refused to approve an ordinance for  one-year moratorium on demolitions in the city.

The outcome disappointed  urban poor groups hoping for relief from City Hall’s continuing clearing operations.

Only ten votes were mustered by the Bando Osmena-Pundok Kauswagan (BO-PK)  instead of 12 required to defeat the veto.

Four councilors abstained from voting.

Councilor Alvin Dizon, author of the ordinance, gave a privilege speech seeking an override.

City Ordinance No. 2438  approved last October 28 imposes a moratorium on city-initiated demolitions and clearing operations for one year.  Dizon said the ordinance  just gives  breathing space for  urban poor settlers and more time for City Hall to develop and prepare relocation sites.

But Mayor Rama, in his veto message last week, said the ordinance contradicts national laws and seems to condone squatting especially along danger zones like creeks and waterways.

Those who voted in favor of the override were Dizon, Eugenio Gabuya Jr., Mary Ann De Los Santos, Lea Japson, Nida Cabrera, Sisinio Andales, Margarita Osmena, Roberto Cabarrubias and Dave Tumulak.

Councilors Carillo, Phillip Zafra, Hanz Abella and James Anthony Cuenco abstained.