CEBU City Mayor Edgardo Labella has extended his sick leave indefinitely starting Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, because of “on and off pneumonia.”

“Upon advise of his doctor, the mayor will extend his leave for another period of time. This will tantamount to an indefinite extension of the leave of Mayor Edgar,” said City Administrator Floro Casas, Jr. in a mix of Cebuano and English.

Labella went on sick leave last Sept. 20 until Oct. 7, 2021 Thursday.

This was his sixth leave of absence since his 36-day admission in the hospital from May 2 to June 6.

Casas said the Mayor is still “weak” and is still “recovering” slowly and they believe that his recovery would be faster should he continue with his full rest.

“He has to focus on his recovery, anyway, Vice Mayor Mike Rama is there as acting mayor,” Casas added.

He also said there is a possibility that Labella’s indefinite leave extension will last more than 30 days.

Labella’s resignation “is out of the question,” said Casas as Labella intends to finish his term even if he has to file for leave of absence from time to time depending on his physical condition.

With Labella’s extended leave, Rama will continue to serve as the acting mayor.

Rama, in a separate interview, said he will have to sit down with key officials and department heads of the City Hall for proper guidance and strategic planning on their next steps for the City with Labella’s extended absence.

“I do not have to think about changes because it’s not my cup of tea to rock the boat. My cup of tea is to bring harmony,” said Rama.

“There is such a thing we call it unity in harmony and even bringing unity despite diversity,” he said when asked if he planned on appointing or removing personnel and department heads at the City Hall this time.