BAHA respects Mayor's decision to cut-off ties
BACOLOD CITY -- Bacolod Anti-Baha Alliance (BAHA) spokesman Alan Gensoli yesterday acknowledged Mayor Evelio Leonardia's decision to severe their ties following the forceful dispersal of the people's barricade in Brgy. Felisa last Oct. 26 by the city government.
Sangguniang Panglungsod Member Roberto Rojas suggested to cut the mayor's ties with the group after they found out that the Bacolod Anti-Baha Alliance was responsible for the spreading of the anti-Leonardia leaflets last Nov. 1.
Gensoli said that they do not want to be a member of the City Matigating Committee if they are no longer welcomed by Mayor Leonardia.
"We do not want to be where we are not welcome," lamented by Mr. Gensoli who called yesterday a press conference along with Norman Campos who represented the Anti-Baha on the Housing Program and Jean Trebol on Flood Control Sub-Committee and other members of the Anti-Baha Alliance.
Gensoli said that they only learned about Mayor Leonardia's decision through various TV and radio shows, and various publications last Nov. 3, 2008.
Gensoli further said that the group only joined the Bacolod Flood Mitigating Committee on the invitation of Mayor Leonardia last June 2008.
"This proves our sincere willingness to work with the city government but unfortunately, this is no longer possible because of the decision of Leonardia to severe relations with the Bacolod Anti-Baha Alliance," Gensoli added.
Gensoli said their group instead will now embark on a cooperative effort with the DENR Region 6 in monitoring the city's compliance to the requirements of solid waste management as prescribed by R.A. 9003.
Gensoli recalled that on Nov. 3, 2008, they met with DENR Regional Executive Director Lormelyn Claudio regarding solid waste problem. At the end of the meeting, the DENR official asked the Bacolod Anti-BAHA Alliance if their organization can help the DENR monitor the city's compliance to the solid waste management requirements prescribed by R.A 9003 and they agreed with the invitation.
Gensoli emphasized that their group does not support the violations of any law, including closing of roads without the necessary permit. However, they believe that Leonardia should have exercised maximum tolerance in dealing with the people. They understand that city hall already gave the people of Felisa nine hours but the people were asking for only one day.
Gensoli on the latter part of the press conference again denied the issue of "politicking" and he underscored that this pronouncement of the Local Chief Executive is a "deadend issue". He said that this is the "easiest way of alibi" when in truth and in fact they are non-political.