EXPECT several changes.
That was what Junard “Ahong” Chan, mayor-elect of Lapu-Lapu City, promised his constituents.
Once he assumes office, his first priority is to improve the city’s district hospital. That way, patients don’t need to be transferred to other hospitals across the channel.
However, he acknowledged that the City’s role would be limited. Since the Department of Health runs the facility, the agency will pick the contractor that will be in charge of the renovation.
He also said he will check why the renovation has been delayed.
The businessman-turned-politician also promised to hire three ambulance drivers who will work in shifts so a driver will be available around the clock to respond to emergencies.
Chan’s second priority is to relocate the public market in Barangay Poblacion since it causes traffic.
The building is undergoing retrofitting, which was implemented by the administration of outgoing mayor Paz Radaza.
Chan said the vendors can return in a few days and stay until the City finds a new place for the market.
Another project that Chan has in mind is to put up lampposts in the barangays as a deterrent to crime.
He will coordinate with barangay captains to identify interior parts of their villages that need lighting.
Chan said he will also allow “flying connection,” which lets a family tap the electricity of a neighbor, as long as it has the approval of the City Engineering Office and the Mactan Electric Company.
The incoming official admitted that fulfilling his campaign promises would be an uphill battle, especially if he did not get the support of city councilors, most of whom are allied with the Radazas.
“Gipili man ta sa katawhan; nisalig ang katawhan nga kita makaserbisyo sa tinarong. Tinarong man ang atoa pagabuhaton. Manghinaot ko nga mosuporta sila (I was chosen by the people; the people placed their trust in me to serve them honestly. I will be doing what is good for the city. I hope they will support me),” he said. (From GCM of SuperBalita Cebu, KAL)