Mayoralty bets face business leaders to present platforms

Five candidates vying for the Cebu City mayoralty came together to present their platforms, promises, and policy positions— focusing particularly on economic growth and business development— during a forum organized by the business leaders of Cebu yesterday.

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The Cebu City Mayoralty Forum, hosted by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), featured incumbent Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, former mayor Michael Rama, Councilor Nestor Archival, and first-time candidates Dr. Yogi Felimon Ruiz and Julieto Co.

Over the course of nearly five hours, the candidates answered pressing questions from business leaders and key stakeholders—discussions that may significantly influence the city’s economic direction in the coming years.

CCCI President Jay Yuvallos opened the forum by emphasizing the critical role of Cebu City’s leadership, not just locally but throughout Central Visayas.

"Leadership is very important. The mission of the chamber is to be the engine of Cebu's business growth toward global competitiveness,” said Yuvallos.

One central issue raised was the difficulty of transacting with Cebu City Hall, especially regarding business renewals and permits, despite the passage of RA 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business Law.

Archival, acknowledging his dual identity as a public official and entrepreneur, candidly shared his experience with delays.

“It took me about three to six months,” he said.