A POLITICAL rift has opened between Cebu City’s top two leaders over the man responsible for running the City's daily operations. Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña has publicly criticized City Administrator Albert Tan, calling his performance into question during a recent event.
The disagreement highlights a growing tension between Mayor Nestor Archival and Vice Mayor Osmeña regarding how the City is being managed.
A public criticism
The controversy broke out on Sunday, March 29, 2026, during a "State of the Barangay Address" in Barangay Mabolo. During the event, Vice Mayor Osmeña called Tan "banga" — a Cebuano term for incompetent.
The vice mayor raised specific concerns regarding delays in the salaries of city employees. This is not the first time Osmeña has voiced doubts about Tan, who was appointed by Archival following the 2025 elections. Osmeña has previously stated that Tan lacks the necessary experience for public service.
"Tan is the mayor’s choice. It would not be my choice, but he is entitled to do that. We have to respect that," Osmeña said in a previous interview.
The mayor stands his ground
Archival responded to the criticism during a press conference on Tuesday, March 31. He dismissed the comments, stating that such criticism is simply a normal part of governing.
The mayor made it clear that he continues to support his appointee, despite the vice mayor's disapproval.
"For me, Albert has been working. I realize he has produced results, so I stand by my city administrator," Archival said. While he did not list specific projects or accomplishments, he noted that "people have different standards" when judging work.
Why the position matters
As city administrator, Albert Tan holds one of the most important jobs in the local government. He oversees day-to-day operations, supervises department heads and ensures that city programs are actually carried out.
Because Tan is a key figure in the Archival administration, the friction between the mayor and vice mayor could impact how smoothly the city government functions.
What’s next for the administration?
Back in August 2025, Osmeña had expressed reservations but said he was willing to give Tan a chance to prove himself. It appears that his patience may be wearing thin.
Despite the public exchange, Archival insists that communication between him and the vice mayor remains intact. For now, the mayor remains confident in Tan’s ability to manage the City Government, even as political tensions continue to simmer. / CAV