CEBU City Mayor Nestor Archival has expressed support for the proposed “Mayor of the Night” initiative of Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, saying the program focuses on night-shift workers and economic growth, not on political personalities.
Archival clarified reports claiming that the program gives Osmeña a nighttime mayoral title.
“What Councilor Jun (Alcover) shared is not true. The ‘Mayor of the Night’ is a project, not a title. Tommy is not the mayor at night,” said Archival.
“We are focusing on the people working in the business park area, and I think it’s very important that we give them attention,” he added.
Councilor Pastor Alcover had earlier criticized Osmeña’s proposed program, calling it unconstitutional and a waste of public funds.
During the City Council’s regular session on Oct. 7, 2025, a brief debate broke out when Osmeña pushed for the immediate approval of a P12-million, three-year lease for an office space at IT Park intended for the program.
The program seeks to establish a 24/7 one-stop shop for night-shift workers such as business process outsourcing (BPO) employees, nurses, and taxi drivers, providing them access to services from SSS, Pag-IBIG, LTO, NBI, and PhilHealth.
Archival said putting up an office at Cebu IT Park would benefit workers who operate outside normal office hours.
He clarified that the P12 million allocation covers three years and does not necessarily mean the entire amount will be spent, emphasizing that the city’s focus is on helping people and supporting the economy.
The mayor also rejected claims that the program was unconstitutional.
“I don’t think it’s unconstitutional because we are simply giving attention to the people. They should understand that this is not for Tommy—it’s for everybody. The people will benefit from it,” Archival said.
He added that any concerns about the project’s funding or implementation could be properly addressed by the City Council.
Relationship
Archival also emphasized that his working relationship with Osmeña remains good and that their shared goal is to serve the people.
“If there are issues, we can always sit down—whatever is good for everyone, that’s what we will do,” he said.
Asked about the city’s fiscal situation, Archival said they continue to manage their finances prudently amid the budget deficit.
“We can manage if there’s a budget deficit. Right now, we’re managing and rationalizing whatever we can do. We need to find ways to minimize spending and use the budget efficiently,” he said. / CAV