Lim says campaign for 2010 on in city

Mayor Dan Lim yesterday said the campaign for the 2010 elections has started in Tagbilaran City. "In fact, it has already started since Day 1," Lim disclosed. He said that instead of putting politics aside so the people can avail of quality service, emphasis is now given to the interests of political factions slated to face each other in the next polls. The mayor said this is sad because politics does not hesitate to cause inconvenience and hardship to the people.

LIM

"For instance, it was learned during a meeting to address the drainage system that it was Cong. Edgar Chatto who ordered the (Department of Public Works and Highways) last May 12 to close the drainage that worsened the dirt and pollution," he alleged.

The mayor said that after the closure, Board Member Alfonso Damalerio II then delivered a privilege speech criticizing the city government's program designed to solve the drainage problem.

"This is contrary to the baseless allegations of Damalerio who does not have the qualifications and competence to talk on the technical aspects of the drainage," he added.

The mayor dared his critics to come out with their platform and program of government instead of engaging in a politics of destruction.

"When I ran in 2004, nobody can accuse me of saying anything negative against the previous administration. Instead, I presented my platform and my plans on what I would do when given the chance," he noted.

He recalled that during the 2004 campaign, his commitment to give free school uniforms and school supplies to all school children in all public elementary schools was ridiculed by political rivals.

"For three years now, I have lived up to this commitment," he added.

In the same manner, the mayor said opponents made fun of his vow to give free hospital services to indigents.

However, because it has been implemented, Lim said the Blue Card program is now even being abused by beneficiaries.

"Our commitment to distribute free medicines to the poor and senior citizens was greeted by resentment and obstacles. Aside from investigations on anomalies that the city government had nothing to do, the program became the object of intrigues and rumors by critics," he said.

Because of the obstacles, Lim said he was forced to give a bigger role to the private sector through Deputy Mayor Mariano Uy so it will not die as critics wanted it to.

"I am not saying our political opponents should not challenge us in the next election.

What I am inviting them is to engage in positive politics by coming out with betterandsuperior programs instead of undermining our programs that benefit the people," he added.

The mayor however did not appear bothered by the emerging challenge.

"I am ready to meet every challenge, whether by fair means or foul," he added.