State of emergency in Brgy Pulangbato

DUE TO UNFINISHED BRIDGE

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The Cebu City Council has declared a state of emergency in Barangay Pulangbato due to the ongoing issues surrounding an unfinished bridge project and the hazardous alternative routes available to residents.

However, the council expressed reservations about the potential emergency procurement that may follow the declaration, citing past instances where such actions led to sanctions against public officials, including the dismissal of former mayor Michael Rama.

During the council’s regular session on Wednesday, Councilor Joel Garganera, chair of the committee on disaster, moved for the approval of the resolution declaring a state of emergency in the barangay. The resolution also proposed allowing the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) to proceed with emergency procurement to expedite the construction of the reinforced deck girder bridge connecting Sitio Candarong to Tanay Road.

Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera, the majority floor leader, raised concerns about this provision. While acknowledging the urgent need to resolve the issue, she cautioned that the emergency procurement aspect could place city officials in a precarious position.