2004minutes, july 14.doc
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF OLONGAPO, HELD ON JULY 14, 2004
AT THE CITY HALL.
PRESENT:
Hon. Rolen C. Paulino - - - - - - - - - - - - - - City Vice Mayor & Presiding Officer
Hon. Noel Y. Atienza - - - - - - - - - - - - - - City Councilor
Hon. Cynthia G. Cajudo - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Teodoro D. Del Rosario - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Bella P. Asuncion - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Marey Beth D. Marzan - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Angelina B. Andrada - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Brian Patrick H. Gordon - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Anselmo A. Aquino - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Edwin J. Piano - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Gina G. Perez - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Napoleon F. Capistrano - - - - - - - - - President, Liga ng mga Barangay
Hon. Robine Rose C. Buenafe - - - - - - - - SK Federation President
ABSENT:
None.
Call to Order
City Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer Rolen C. Paulino, called the session to order at 3:30 in the afternoon.
Roll Call
With all members and the Presiding Officer present, a quorum was declared.
Reading and Adoption of Minutes
On motion of Councilor Noel Y. Atienza, the body adopted the minutes of its regular session held last June 16, 2004.
Communications and Referrals of Business
First Reading:
1. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-02 – A Resolution Adopting The Internal Rules Of Procedure Of The Sangguniang Panlungsod (2004-2007). Sponsored By Councilor Noel Y. Atienza
2. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-03 – A Resolution Confirming The Appointment Of Elflida S. Salmon, As City Government Department Head II (City Council Secretary) SG-26 Under The Office Of The City Council.
3. Draft Resolution No. 2004 – R-04 – A Resolution Confirming The Appointment Of Atty. Manuel W. Quijano As City Government Department Head II (City Administrator) SG-26 Under The Office Of The City Administrator.
Communications Read:
1. Copy of the resignation letter of Kgwd. Eduardo G. Gallardo, Barangay Barretto effective on July 1, 2004. (For information)
2. Copy of a memorandum from Mayor James Gordon, Jr. addressed to Dr. Julie Reyes, General Manager, PUD regarding Additional Work Assignment. Directing Dr. Reyes to assist the Office of the City Administrator in the handling of day to day administrative concerns raised by the various Department Heads. For this purpose, Dr. Reyes shall report directly to the Mayor and the City Administrator, Atty. Manuel W. Quijano. (For information)
3. Letter from the Apostolic Catholic Church, Birhen Ina Poon Bato Church, Toka No. 12 soliciting financial assistance for the completion of their church located at No. 46, Graham St., East Bajac-Bajac, Olongapo City. (Referred to the body as a Whole)
4. Copy of the Inspection of Weights and measures of East Bajac-Bajac Public Market. (Referred to Councilor Gordon)
5. Copy of the letter of Roseller T. Logronio, District Public Attorney, Public Attorney’s Office, Olongapo City addressed to Mayor James Gordon requesting for the creation of a city plantilla of Messenger/Clerical Aide to the PAO-Olongapo District Office.
6. Copy of a memorandum from Atty. Manuel W. Quijano, City Administrator addressed to all Department Heads regarding Written Report. (Referred to all City Councilors)
7. Copy of the 1st Indorsement of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo indorsing to Mr. Johnny B. Choa, City Budget Officer the letter of Ms. Zoraida B. Montealto, Purok Leader, Purok 3-A, Sta. Rita, Olongapo City regarding their request for the local government to issue appropriate funds for the expropriation and development of Purok 3-A and Plaza, Brgy. Sta. Rita.
8. Letter from Haidee Ibanez, Kumakatawan, Korea Subic addressed to the City Council soliciting financial assistance to help them defray expenses for the ad placement for auction of the office equipment of KOREA SUBIC which was closed last Sept. 2000. (Referred to Councilors Atienza and Piano)
9. Copy of the letter of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo commending Capt. Julius Domingo, Precinct Commander, Station I for the immediate response regarding those persons loitering and making the Rizal Triangle Park unsanitary. (For information)
10. Copy of a Position Paper on the Modernization & Privatization of the Public Utility Department (PUD) from Benjamin O. Miranda, Sr., Bantay Bayan Representative, Brgy. Sta. Rita. (Referred to Councilor Aquino)
11. Memorandum from Mayor James Gordon to the Sangguniang Panlungsod regarding the appointment of Atty. Manuel W. Quijano as City Administrator. (Referred to the body as a Whole)
12. Copy of the 2nd Indorsement from Mr. Johnny B. Choa, City Budget Officer to Hon. James Gordon, Jr., City Mayor pertaining to the 1st Indorsement of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo regarding the letter of Ms. Zoraida B. Montealto, Purok Leader, Purok 3-A, Sta. Rita, Olongapo City regarding their request for the local government to issue appropriate funds for the expropriation and development of Purok 3-A and Plaza, Brgy. Sta. Rita. (Referred to Councilor Cajudo)
13. Copy of the Notice of Public Hearing from Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo addressed to all Drivers/Operators of Tricycles, Traffic Management Board and All Concern regarding Fare Increase For Tricycles for hire on July 17, 2004, 2:00 P.M. at Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center. (For information)
14. Letter from Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo informing Vice Mayor Rolen C. Paulino that the Transportation Committee will be having a series of meetings regarding transport problems at Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center and therefore requesting for the use of a sound system. (Noted)
15. Letter from the Personality Enhancement Center inviting Sangguniang Panlungsod for a seminar-workshop enhancing work attitude. (Referred to the body as a Whole)
16. Copy of Resolution No. 09, Series of 2004 from Barangay Old Cabalan, entitled, “A Resolution Requesting The Permit Of The Hon. City Mayor James “Bong” Gordon That A Mini-Peria will be Held At Barangay Old Cabalan From August 1 To September 30, 2004 In Celebration Of The Barangay Fiesta Year 2004” (Referred to Councilor Atienza)
17. Copy of Board Resolution No. 56, Series of 2004 from the Olongapo Subic Castillejos San Marcelino Transport Service And Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc, entitled, “A Resolution of The Board Of Directors Over Its Strong Opposition/Objection With Regards To The Application For Approval Of Additional Seventy Four (74) Mini-Bus Units Of ZAMODCA To Operate Within Olongapo City, Zambales Area And Some Parts Of Pangasinan” (Referred to the body as a Whole)
18. Letter from Esmenia B. Sitchon, Gordon College Administrator inviting Councilor Edwin J. Piano to a meeting on July 15, 2004 at the Gordon College at 2:00 PM. (Referred to Councilor Piano)
19. Copy of the Annual Audit Report on the City of Olongapo for the Year Ended December 31, 2003 from the Commission on Audit.
20. Copy of the Committee Report submitted by Councilor Noel Y. Atienza regarding Barangay Resolution No. 32, Series of 2004 permitting the Barangay Council of Barangay Pag-Asa, Olongapo City, To Hold Mini-Fair As Fund Raising Project During The Celebration Of The Feast Of San Lorenzo Ruiz.
21. Copy of the Petition of Olongapo Residents For The Conversion Of Public Utilities Department Electric Service Into Cooperative submitted by Leonardo C. Perez, et. al. (Referred to Councilor Aquino)
22. Copy of a memorandum from the City Planning and Development Coordinator, Elizabeth Zavalla dated July 13, 2004 designating Lynette L. Dela Cruz, Planning Officer II to be the Officer-In-Charge of the CPDO from July 30 to August 2, 2004 since Ms. Zavalla will be on official travel to attend the 2004 AUICK Associate Cities Conference in Kobe, Japan. (For information of the body)
23. Copy of the outgoing message of Rodolfo S. Feraren, CESO II, Regional Director of the DILG addressed to all PDs, CDs, CLGOOS on the submission of approved budget of LGUs among others, wherein the DILG City Director is asking the City Mayor for a copy of the approved budget of the city. (For info)
24. Copy of the letter of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo requesting Mayor Gordon to authorize her to consolidate the franchise personnel of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and the vehicle personnel of the City Planning and Development Office into one office at the back of the Rizal Triangle Stage. (For information)
25. Copy of the third indorsement of Councilor Anselmo A. Aquino and Councilor Teodoro D. Del Rosario forwarding to Mayor Gordon the first and second indorsement dated July 12, 2004 of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo and Mr. Johnny B. Choa, City Budget Officer together with the attached letter of Mrs. Sorayda Montealto, Purok Leader, Purok 3-A, Sta. Rita, Olongapo City dated July 12, 2004 regarding the request for the local government to issue appropriate funds for the expropriation and development of Prk. 3 – A Park and Plaza, Sta. Rita. (Referred to Councilors Cajudo and Perez)
Committee Reports
Councilor Piano expressed his appreciation to the Honorable Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer for paving the way in bridging the gap between Officials of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Olongapo City. The Chairman and Administrator of SBMA paid a visit to the Olongapo City Hall and met with our mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. and some government officials.
The Councilor added that he felt the sincerity of the SBMA Chairman in his reconciliation effort. Because of this, he responded to the invitation to visit the Subic Bay Freeport Zone by dropping at the SBMA Labor Center, Recruitment Division, Labor Inspection and Dispute Office and their Training Division.
Councilor Cajudo reported to the body that her committee provided a forum where GHODTSCI Cooperative and SOJI Association can arrive to a mutual undertaking and decision on their internal concerns. This was conducted on July 8, 2004 and attended by Councilor Brian Gordon, Mr. Anacleto delos Santos, Mr. Jo Ramos and Mr. Elago. SOJI requested that their membership from GHODTSCI be released or withdrawn so that they can process their association’s individual franchise from LTFRB.
On another report, Councilor Cajudo met the City Health Department Officer, Dr. Pacita Alcantara. Ms. Elvira Carreon, Police Inspector Cesar Cabling of Station 1, Barangay Chairman Luis Grospe of East Bajac-Bajac, Mr. Jo Ramos of the TMB and Mr. Merlito Majarucon of GSO to address the complaint of residents at Canda St., specifically aired by Mrs. Carmelita Yco of the DILG, Olongapo City. Concerns regarding sanitation, cleanliness and pollution had been discussed. One of the solutions they had agreed is to put up a portalet. But it was closed because people do not want to use it because of its prescribed user’s fee. Inspite of this, Barangay Chairman Grospe still recommended to revive the user’s fee of Php2.00 to be included from the utility dues of Php5.00 per vehicle per day.
Secondly, it was also discussed in the said meeting to revive and remind the former agreement of transport operators and drivers regarding their vehicle line-up at the terminal at a given time and such means two J-07, Dinalupihan trip and two J- 13 Cabalan trip are only allowed to queue at the said terminals. This will avoid congestion on the said community as the residents and business establishment owners specifically those who have vehicles are complaining about.
Third, the Committee saw the need to look for vacant lots as private parking spaces or terminals for public utility jeepneys to meet the said need for the escalating number of units in the City. Inorder not to clog the traffic at Canda St., the Mactan Area is also recommended as waiting area.
Further, parking attendants were evaluated also as lack of training and must be checked since reports show that they gamble on their places whenever they have no customers.
Councilor Cajudo also announced that the Transport Committee met last July 13 and other meetings such as the team Leaders Meeting regarding transport terminals, cleanliness and other matters on July 15 and Public Hearing for Tricycle Fare Hike on July 17.
Terminal operation, cleanliness, urinals, smoke emission, noise pollution, numbr of units per road terminal, passenger capacity of tricycle and routes had also been discussed with her meeting with Zone 3 leaders at 23rd Street.
The Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer Paulino recommended Councilor Cajudo to refer the SOJI and GHODTSCI matter to Mr. Majarucon and Mr. Jo Ramos because they were present during the meeting. He remembered that former Mayor Katherine H. Gordon made a solomonic decision with regard to the said concern.
Councilor Cajudo cleared that since they received legal notice from their private counsel, Atty. Atienza, they deem that they need to comply with the requirements first before the City Government can intervene.
Regarding the report on Zone III tricycles traversing the national highway from Sta. Rita to Forestry, which is barely about 200 to 300 meters, the Vice-Mayor and Presiding Officer Paulino explained that this was allowed before, to provide convenience to passengers coming from the market going to Forestry provided that the said tricycles will not to pick-up passengers as they come back to the Zone III route.
Councilor Cajudo suggested not to allow the said measure because their franchises tell it so.
The Presiding Officer asked Councilors Gordon and Cajudo regarding apprehensions made on tricycles traversing the highway and those that use the Forestry corner as their terminal.
Because of this, he allowed Mr. Jo Ramos, TMB Consultant to explain the conducted apprehension before the body. The consultant explained that the apprehensions were made for those colorum vehicles and those who violate the “no picking-up of passengers along the highway.” It was agreed that those blue tricycles can only send off passengers to Forestry but cannot pick up passengers along the way when they go back to their lines. There is no written agreement on this but this was done so as a reaction for a complaint.
The Presiding Officer stressed that it is but proper that if we are to implement the law, we should implement it in all places within the City and not single-out a place.
Councilor Atienza reported on the request of Barangay Pag-asa as stated in their Barangay Resolution No. 32, Series of 2004 asking permission for them to hold a mini fair as fund raising project during the celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz. He stated in his recommendation that there is already a standing ordinance on this matter and shall only commence on August 26, 2004 considering that the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz will be on September 26.The Ordinance allows the establishment of a mini fair for a period of 30 days. It is also further requested that a Deed of Undertaking be signed in favor of the City and minors should not be allowed to any gambling activities in the said mini fair.
Councilor Atienza also called the attention of the City Government because he saw that there is also a mini fair being established in Barangay Kalalake infront of the Kalalake High School. The same Ordinance also states that mini fairs should be 50 meters in radius away from the nearest school or church. He requested the Presiding Officer to look into the said issue and call the barangay chairman since this contradicts the said Ordinance.
On another committee report, Councilor Atienza expressed that he received a letter requesting investigation on a portion of lot being leased to Subicwater which is also claimed by a certain Jeoffrey Sumbad. In his capacity as Chairman of the Committee on Laws and Investigation he is requesting for a meeting with the following offices : City Planning, Bureau of Lands, representative from the Subicwater, City Assessor and Mr. Jeoffrey Sumbad himself to a meeting on Friday at 9 : 00 in the morning. He also requested for the use of the session hall.
Councilor del Rosario rendered a report regarding the meeting of the SMED Council and the Young Entrepreneurs Club of Olongapo with the City Mayor Bong Gordon last July 9, 2004 to discuss about the business climate in the City. Action plans on how they can help the business community and other issues regarding the need for a bigger office space were raised in time for the arrival of the new equipment. The Mayor also suggested to check the James L. Gordon Avenue Market and Mall and package/manage it like the Philtrade Exhibit Area where the manufacturing area of different projects to occupy the 2nd floor and the ground floor will be the display/exhibit center.
The Councilor also informed everyone that the SMED Council will celebrate the SMED Week on July 19 – 26 for the country. Different establishments will be participating in the motorcade.
Also, the Councilor informed that another successful Business Conference led by the SMED Council will be conducted on the 3rd week of October at the Olongapo City Convention Center. For this endeavor, the Mayor challenged the SMED Council that it is about time to produce our own product that will be called “Made in Olongapo”.
Councilor Marzan apprised the body regarding our Child Welfare Program, the Council for the Protection of Children which is now on the process of organizing itself represented by her and Councilor Robine Rose Buenafe. For three consecutive years, the City was upheld as the Most Child Friendly City. As a result we will be part of the team who will assess its impact to the different local government units. As part of the award, we bagged Php850,000 that the City used in the procurement of different playground equipment which were distributed to different barangays. We also won Php2,000,000 for the two consecutive years and the said cash prize will be used to develop a jail for juvenile cases.
Councilor Andrada reported the malaria preventive measures done at Block 27, Gordon Heights, Olongapo City. Blood smear were taken from patients having symptoms of the disease, where 23 patients out of the 51 patients whose blood smears were done were found to be positive with malaria. Patients were given treatment, follow-up, malaria surveillance were also done at the affected area and biological control measures such as string clearing and shading of area, distribution of impregnated mosquito nets, education dissemination and distribution of IE materials to the community were implemented. She assured that the endemic outbreak of malaria at Block 27 is now under control
Councilor Andrada also announced that the City is celebrating the National Disability Week from July 17 to July 23, 2004 under the theme “Tagumpay ng May Kapansanan, Tagumpay ng Bayan”. This activity endeavors to create awareness to the public the plight of persons with disabilities, because we can only address the problems of the disabled sector thru the support and cooperation of government and non-government organizations, the private sector, the community and the persons with disabilities themselves and their families. This activity also aims to look on their capabilities and harness them so that they can be productive members of the society, she said.
The Presiding Officer was also glad to know from Councilor Andrada that cases of Dengue in the City had gone down compared last year.
Councilor Piano notified the body that an Overseas Summit was conducted last July 9, 2004 at the PICC in an effort to prevent or stop the abuses on our Overseas Filipino Workers who are in desperate need to earn a living. In the said Summit, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo created the task force against illegal recruiters. The President also directed Gen. Reynaldo Jaylo to track down illegal recruiters, prosecute them in accordance with the law for economic sabotage which is punishable with life sentence. A stern warning was also given to airport and immigration personnel who are in cahoots with illegal recruiters and human traffickers.
The Councilor also announced that there will be job fair for local and overseas employment to be held on July 16, 2004 at the Rizal Triangle Multi Purpose Center. It was confirmed that 9 legal overseas employment agencies and 7 local companies will be participating in the said fair.
Councilor Piano also relayed that during a meeting with the SBMA Labor Center, they assured him that they will be sending representatives and the people or HR Managers from investors to participate. This first collaborative work between Olongapo City and SBMA were happy that this endeavor will benefit first our people who are seeking for employment. Even the newly elected Congresswoman Mitos Magsaysay pledged her full support for the success of this event.
Councilor Gina Perez raised some issues regarding the proposed mini zoo. Her committee found out that a certain Myrna Arcega sold a lot located at No. 1887 Bennet Road, Purok 4, Old Cabalan to Donalyn Celas and Domingo Higante. It turned-out that the lot is located inside the proposed mini-zoo and so the said area is not subject for disposition nor acquisition under Public Land Act. Further, a barangay certification was even issued by Barangay Chairman Rolando S. Alba of Old Cabalan regarding the said lot sold.
For this matter, Councilor Perez referred the same to the Committee on Environment, Housing and Zoning since the subject lot is also inside the watershed and the Committee on Laws and Investigation for their action.
The Presiding Officer also called the attention of Councilor Capistrano to act on the said matter since a barangay certification had been involved in the said sale of lot.
Councilor Asuncion shared to the body the present project of the Balikatan Ladies of Olongapo Movement (BLOOM) which they call “Bayanihang Paluwagan” which targets the participation of students and housewives. The Balikatan Ladies of Sta. Rita, Presidents and Officials of 17 Barangays in Olongapo started the said project. The concept is to invest in a small scale business or provide loans to members at a lower interest rate derived from whatever savings generated within the week, which are deposited to the treasurer of the group. Each group is composed of 30 members on a trial period of 6 months.
ABC President Capistrano told everyone that according to reports of residents at 18th, 21st and Davidson Streets, operators/drivers of blue and cream jeepneys still do not follow the required one-lane queue of their vehicles.
The Presiding Officer called the attention of Councilor Cajudo regarding this matter. The latter explained that such complaint be written and endorsed formally to serve as basis for the revocation of franchise of violators.
Councilor Aquino reported that he wrote Dr. Julie Reyes, General Manager of PUD of Olongapo City and requested her to submit the list of receivables affected by the Amnesty Scheme proposed by the said office. The partial list had already been forwarded which is expected to reflect the amount Php1,542,018.79 worth of payments to the City. The additional list will be provided as soon as possible, he said.
Councilor Piano apprised the body regarding the letter request of the employees of Korea Subic, one of the companies at the SBFZ whose owners claimed to have gone bankrupt. The 40 employees whose legal counsel is Atty.Noel Y. Atienza, were to claim around Php686,803 left unpaid by the owner. Inorder to process their claim, they are soliciting from the Councilors the amount needed for them to publish their summons on newspaper which would amount to five of six thousand pesos. Their counsel had already donated 2 thousand pesos and thus the remaining amount are to be solicited.
The Presiding Officer shared to the body that he conducted an inspection at Begonia St., Sta. Rita to double-check the road repair project conducted on the said street. It was observed that the level of the two ends of the street is higher than that of its middle. Thus, the residents on the middle of the street are complaining that they catch much of the flood water during heavy downpour.
Vice Mayor Paulino gladly announced that young tennis champion Patrick John Tierro from the City stood as the lone representative of our country to the prestigious German Open. He also reported that Chairman Felicito Payumo paid a visit to the City Council and met the Honorable City Mayor Bong Gordon afterwards for an important meeting. He also instructed Councilor Piano to assess the staffing /needs requirement of the departments.
Calendar of Business
Second Reading:
1. On motion of Councilor Cajudo, the body deferred the approval of Draft Ordinance No. 2004 – O-01 – An Ordinance Reverting The Amount Of Two Million Fifty Nine Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty Two Pesos (PhP2,059,832.00) From Trust Fund To General Fund Recognizing The Said Amount As Income From Accumulated Tuition And Related Fees And Appropriating The Same To The Items Capital Outlay And Maintenance & Other Operating Expenses Of Gordon College.
2. On motion of Councilor Aquino, the body approved on second and final readings Draft Ordinance No. 2004 – O-02 – An Ordinance Adopting The Amnesty Scheme 2004 Of The Public Utilities Department (PUD).
Other Matters
The following items were considered by the body as urgent matters and were unanimously approved on first, second and final readings:
1. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-02 – A Resolution Adopting The Internal Rules Of Procedure Of The Sangguniang Panlungsod (2004-2007). Sponsored By Councilor Noel Y. Atienza
2. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-03 – A Resolution Confirming The Appointment Of Elflida S. Salmon, As City Government Department Head II (City Council Secretary) SG-26 Under The Office Of The City Council. Sponsored by Councilor Edwin J. Piano.
3. A Resolution Conveying Deepest Sympathies To The Bereaved Family Of The Late Kagawad Romeo Gatbunton. Unanimous.
Adjournment
There being no further business to be discussed, the session was adjourned at 4:45 in the afternoon.
I HEREBY CERTIFY TO THE
CORRECTNESS OF THE FOREGOING:
ELFLIDA S. SALMON
Acting Council Secretary
ATTEST:
ROLEN C. PAULINO
City Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer
AT THE CITY HALL.
PRESENT:
Hon. Rolen C. Paulino - - - - - - - - - - - - - - City Vice Mayor & Presiding Officer
Hon. Noel Y. Atienza - - - - - - - - - - - - - - City Councilor
Hon. Cynthia G. Cajudo - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Teodoro D. Del Rosario - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Bella P. Asuncion - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Marey Beth D. Marzan - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Angelina B. Andrada - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Brian Patrick H. Gordon - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Anselmo A. Aquino - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Edwin J. Piano - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Gina G. Perez - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - “ “
Hon. Napoleon F. Capistrano - - - - - - - - - President, Liga ng mga Barangay
Hon. Robine Rose C. Buenafe - - - - - - - - SK Federation President
ABSENT:
None.
Call to Order
City Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer Rolen C. Paulino, called the session to order at 3:30 in the afternoon.
Roll Call
With all members and the Presiding Officer present, a quorum was declared.
Reading and Adoption of Minutes
On motion of Councilor Noel Y. Atienza, the body adopted the minutes of its regular session held last June 16, 2004.
Communications and Referrals of Business
First Reading:
1. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-02 – A Resolution Adopting The Internal Rules Of Procedure Of The Sangguniang Panlungsod (2004-2007). Sponsored By Councilor Noel Y. Atienza
2. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-03 – A Resolution Confirming The Appointment Of Elflida S. Salmon, As City Government Department Head II (City Council Secretary) SG-26 Under The Office Of The City Council.
3. Draft Resolution No. 2004 – R-04 – A Resolution Confirming The Appointment Of Atty. Manuel W. Quijano As City Government Department Head II (City Administrator) SG-26 Under The Office Of The City Administrator.
Communications Read:
1. Copy of the resignation letter of Kgwd. Eduardo G. Gallardo, Barangay Barretto effective on July 1, 2004. (For information)
2. Copy of a memorandum from Mayor James Gordon, Jr. addressed to Dr. Julie Reyes, General Manager, PUD regarding Additional Work Assignment. Directing Dr. Reyes to assist the Office of the City Administrator in the handling of day to day administrative concerns raised by the various Department Heads. For this purpose, Dr. Reyes shall report directly to the Mayor and the City Administrator, Atty. Manuel W. Quijano. (For information)
3. Letter from the Apostolic Catholic Church, Birhen Ina Poon Bato Church, Toka No. 12 soliciting financial assistance for the completion of their church located at No. 46, Graham St., East Bajac-Bajac, Olongapo City. (Referred to the body as a Whole)
4. Copy of the Inspection of Weights and measures of East Bajac-Bajac Public Market. (Referred to Councilor Gordon)
5. Copy of the letter of Roseller T. Logronio, District Public Attorney, Public Attorney’s Office, Olongapo City addressed to Mayor James Gordon requesting for the creation of a city plantilla of Messenger/Clerical Aide to the PAO-Olongapo District Office.
6. Copy of a memorandum from Atty. Manuel W. Quijano, City Administrator addressed to all Department Heads regarding Written Report. (Referred to all City Councilors)
7. Copy of the 1st Indorsement of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo indorsing to Mr. Johnny B. Choa, City Budget Officer the letter of Ms. Zoraida B. Montealto, Purok Leader, Purok 3-A, Sta. Rita, Olongapo City regarding their request for the local government to issue appropriate funds for the expropriation and development of Purok 3-A and Plaza, Brgy. Sta. Rita.
8. Letter from Haidee Ibanez, Kumakatawan, Korea Subic addressed to the City Council soliciting financial assistance to help them defray expenses for the ad placement for auction of the office equipment of KOREA SUBIC which was closed last Sept. 2000. (Referred to Councilors Atienza and Piano)
9. Copy of the letter of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo commending Capt. Julius Domingo, Precinct Commander, Station I for the immediate response regarding those persons loitering and making the Rizal Triangle Park unsanitary. (For information)
10. Copy of a Position Paper on the Modernization & Privatization of the Public Utility Department (PUD) from Benjamin O. Miranda, Sr., Bantay Bayan Representative, Brgy. Sta. Rita. (Referred to Councilor Aquino)
11. Memorandum from Mayor James Gordon to the Sangguniang Panlungsod regarding the appointment of Atty. Manuel W. Quijano as City Administrator. (Referred to the body as a Whole)
12. Copy of the 2nd Indorsement from Mr. Johnny B. Choa, City Budget Officer to Hon. James Gordon, Jr., City Mayor pertaining to the 1st Indorsement of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo regarding the letter of Ms. Zoraida B. Montealto, Purok Leader, Purok 3-A, Sta. Rita, Olongapo City regarding their request for the local government to issue appropriate funds for the expropriation and development of Purok 3-A and Plaza, Brgy. Sta. Rita. (Referred to Councilor Cajudo)
13. Copy of the Notice of Public Hearing from Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo addressed to all Drivers/Operators of Tricycles, Traffic Management Board and All Concern regarding Fare Increase For Tricycles for hire on July 17, 2004, 2:00 P.M. at Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center. (For information)
14. Letter from Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo informing Vice Mayor Rolen C. Paulino that the Transportation Committee will be having a series of meetings regarding transport problems at Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center and therefore requesting for the use of a sound system. (Noted)
15. Letter from the Personality Enhancement Center inviting Sangguniang Panlungsod for a seminar-workshop enhancing work attitude. (Referred to the body as a Whole)
16. Copy of Resolution No. 09, Series of 2004 from Barangay Old Cabalan, entitled, “A Resolution Requesting The Permit Of The Hon. City Mayor James “Bong” Gordon That A Mini-Peria will be Held At Barangay Old Cabalan From August 1 To September 30, 2004 In Celebration Of The Barangay Fiesta Year 2004” (Referred to Councilor Atienza)
17. Copy of Board Resolution No. 56, Series of 2004 from the Olongapo Subic Castillejos San Marcelino Transport Service And Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc, entitled, “A Resolution of The Board Of Directors Over Its Strong Opposition/Objection With Regards To The Application For Approval Of Additional Seventy Four (74) Mini-Bus Units Of ZAMODCA To Operate Within Olongapo City, Zambales Area And Some Parts Of Pangasinan” (Referred to the body as a Whole)
18. Letter from Esmenia B. Sitchon, Gordon College Administrator inviting Councilor Edwin J. Piano to a meeting on July 15, 2004 at the Gordon College at 2:00 PM. (Referred to Councilor Piano)
19. Copy of the Annual Audit Report on the City of Olongapo for the Year Ended December 31, 2003 from the Commission on Audit.
20. Copy of the Committee Report submitted by Councilor Noel Y. Atienza regarding Barangay Resolution No. 32, Series of 2004 permitting the Barangay Council of Barangay Pag-Asa, Olongapo City, To Hold Mini-Fair As Fund Raising Project During The Celebration Of The Feast Of San Lorenzo Ruiz.
21. Copy of the Petition of Olongapo Residents For The Conversion Of Public Utilities Department Electric Service Into Cooperative submitted by Leonardo C. Perez, et. al. (Referred to Councilor Aquino)
22. Copy of a memorandum from the City Planning and Development Coordinator, Elizabeth Zavalla dated July 13, 2004 designating Lynette L. Dela Cruz, Planning Officer II to be the Officer-In-Charge of the CPDO from July 30 to August 2, 2004 since Ms. Zavalla will be on official travel to attend the 2004 AUICK Associate Cities Conference in Kobe, Japan. (For information of the body)
23. Copy of the outgoing message of Rodolfo S. Feraren, CESO II, Regional Director of the DILG addressed to all PDs, CDs, CLGOOS on the submission of approved budget of LGUs among others, wherein the DILG City Director is asking the City Mayor for a copy of the approved budget of the city. (For info)
24. Copy of the letter of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo requesting Mayor Gordon to authorize her to consolidate the franchise personnel of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and the vehicle personnel of the City Planning and Development Office into one office at the back of the Rizal Triangle Stage. (For information)
25. Copy of the third indorsement of Councilor Anselmo A. Aquino and Councilor Teodoro D. Del Rosario forwarding to Mayor Gordon the first and second indorsement dated July 12, 2004 of Councilor Cynthia G. Cajudo and Mr. Johnny B. Choa, City Budget Officer together with the attached letter of Mrs. Sorayda Montealto, Purok Leader, Purok 3-A, Sta. Rita, Olongapo City dated July 12, 2004 regarding the request for the local government to issue appropriate funds for the expropriation and development of Prk. 3 – A Park and Plaza, Sta. Rita. (Referred to Councilors Cajudo and Perez)
Committee Reports
Councilor Piano expressed his appreciation to the Honorable Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer for paving the way in bridging the gap between Officials of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Olongapo City. The Chairman and Administrator of SBMA paid a visit to the Olongapo City Hall and met with our mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. and some government officials.
The Councilor added that he felt the sincerity of the SBMA Chairman in his reconciliation effort. Because of this, he responded to the invitation to visit the Subic Bay Freeport Zone by dropping at the SBMA Labor Center, Recruitment Division, Labor Inspection and Dispute Office and their Training Division.
Councilor Cajudo reported to the body that her committee provided a forum where GHODTSCI Cooperative and SOJI Association can arrive to a mutual undertaking and decision on their internal concerns. This was conducted on July 8, 2004 and attended by Councilor Brian Gordon, Mr. Anacleto delos Santos, Mr. Jo Ramos and Mr. Elago. SOJI requested that their membership from GHODTSCI be released or withdrawn so that they can process their association’s individual franchise from LTFRB.
On another report, Councilor Cajudo met the City Health Department Officer, Dr. Pacita Alcantara. Ms. Elvira Carreon, Police Inspector Cesar Cabling of Station 1, Barangay Chairman Luis Grospe of East Bajac-Bajac, Mr. Jo Ramos of the TMB and Mr. Merlito Majarucon of GSO to address the complaint of residents at Canda St., specifically aired by Mrs. Carmelita Yco of the DILG, Olongapo City. Concerns regarding sanitation, cleanliness and pollution had been discussed. One of the solutions they had agreed is to put up a portalet. But it was closed because people do not want to use it because of its prescribed user’s fee. Inspite of this, Barangay Chairman Grospe still recommended to revive the user’s fee of Php2.00 to be included from the utility dues of Php5.00 per vehicle per day.
Secondly, it was also discussed in the said meeting to revive and remind the former agreement of transport operators and drivers regarding their vehicle line-up at the terminal at a given time and such means two J-07, Dinalupihan trip and two J- 13 Cabalan trip are only allowed to queue at the said terminals. This will avoid congestion on the said community as the residents and business establishment owners specifically those who have vehicles are complaining about.
Third, the Committee saw the need to look for vacant lots as private parking spaces or terminals for public utility jeepneys to meet the said need for the escalating number of units in the City. Inorder not to clog the traffic at Canda St., the Mactan Area is also recommended as waiting area.
Further, parking attendants were evaluated also as lack of training and must be checked since reports show that they gamble on their places whenever they have no customers.
Councilor Cajudo also announced that the Transport Committee met last July 13 and other meetings such as the team Leaders Meeting regarding transport terminals, cleanliness and other matters on July 15 and Public Hearing for Tricycle Fare Hike on July 17.
Terminal operation, cleanliness, urinals, smoke emission, noise pollution, numbr of units per road terminal, passenger capacity of tricycle and routes had also been discussed with her meeting with Zone 3 leaders at 23rd Street.
The Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer Paulino recommended Councilor Cajudo to refer the SOJI and GHODTSCI matter to Mr. Majarucon and Mr. Jo Ramos because they were present during the meeting. He remembered that former Mayor Katherine H. Gordon made a solomonic decision with regard to the said concern.
Councilor Cajudo cleared that since they received legal notice from their private counsel, Atty. Atienza, they deem that they need to comply with the requirements first before the City Government can intervene.
Regarding the report on Zone III tricycles traversing the national highway from Sta. Rita to Forestry, which is barely about 200 to 300 meters, the Vice-Mayor and Presiding Officer Paulino explained that this was allowed before, to provide convenience to passengers coming from the market going to Forestry provided that the said tricycles will not to pick-up passengers as they come back to the Zone III route.
Councilor Cajudo suggested not to allow the said measure because their franchises tell it so.
The Presiding Officer asked Councilors Gordon and Cajudo regarding apprehensions made on tricycles traversing the highway and those that use the Forestry corner as their terminal.
Because of this, he allowed Mr. Jo Ramos, TMB Consultant to explain the conducted apprehension before the body. The consultant explained that the apprehensions were made for those colorum vehicles and those who violate the “no picking-up of passengers along the highway.” It was agreed that those blue tricycles can only send off passengers to Forestry but cannot pick up passengers along the way when they go back to their lines. There is no written agreement on this but this was done so as a reaction for a complaint.
The Presiding Officer stressed that it is but proper that if we are to implement the law, we should implement it in all places within the City and not single-out a place.
Councilor Atienza reported on the request of Barangay Pag-asa as stated in their Barangay Resolution No. 32, Series of 2004 asking permission for them to hold a mini fair as fund raising project during the celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz. He stated in his recommendation that there is already a standing ordinance on this matter and shall only commence on August 26, 2004 considering that the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz will be on September 26.The Ordinance allows the establishment of a mini fair for a period of 30 days. It is also further requested that a Deed of Undertaking be signed in favor of the City and minors should not be allowed to any gambling activities in the said mini fair.
Councilor Atienza also called the attention of the City Government because he saw that there is also a mini fair being established in Barangay Kalalake infront of the Kalalake High School. The same Ordinance also states that mini fairs should be 50 meters in radius away from the nearest school or church. He requested the Presiding Officer to look into the said issue and call the barangay chairman since this contradicts the said Ordinance.
On another committee report, Councilor Atienza expressed that he received a letter requesting investigation on a portion of lot being leased to Subicwater which is also claimed by a certain Jeoffrey Sumbad. In his capacity as Chairman of the Committee on Laws and Investigation he is requesting for a meeting with the following offices : City Planning, Bureau of Lands, representative from the Subicwater, City Assessor and Mr. Jeoffrey Sumbad himself to a meeting on Friday at 9 : 00 in the morning. He also requested for the use of the session hall.
Councilor del Rosario rendered a report regarding the meeting of the SMED Council and the Young Entrepreneurs Club of Olongapo with the City Mayor Bong Gordon last July 9, 2004 to discuss about the business climate in the City. Action plans on how they can help the business community and other issues regarding the need for a bigger office space were raised in time for the arrival of the new equipment. The Mayor also suggested to check the James L. Gordon Avenue Market and Mall and package/manage it like the Philtrade Exhibit Area where the manufacturing area of different projects to occupy the 2nd floor and the ground floor will be the display/exhibit center.
The Councilor also informed everyone that the SMED Council will celebrate the SMED Week on July 19 – 26 for the country. Different establishments will be participating in the motorcade.
Also, the Councilor informed that another successful Business Conference led by the SMED Council will be conducted on the 3rd week of October at the Olongapo City Convention Center. For this endeavor, the Mayor challenged the SMED Council that it is about time to produce our own product that will be called “Made in Olongapo”.
Councilor Marzan apprised the body regarding our Child Welfare Program, the Council for the Protection of Children which is now on the process of organizing itself represented by her and Councilor Robine Rose Buenafe. For three consecutive years, the City was upheld as the Most Child Friendly City. As a result we will be part of the team who will assess its impact to the different local government units. As part of the award, we bagged Php850,000 that the City used in the procurement of different playground equipment which were distributed to different barangays. We also won Php2,000,000 for the two consecutive years and the said cash prize will be used to develop a jail for juvenile cases.
Councilor Andrada reported the malaria preventive measures done at Block 27, Gordon Heights, Olongapo City. Blood smear were taken from patients having symptoms of the disease, where 23 patients out of the 51 patients whose blood smears were done were found to be positive with malaria. Patients were given treatment, follow-up, malaria surveillance were also done at the affected area and biological control measures such as string clearing and shading of area, distribution of impregnated mosquito nets, education dissemination and distribution of IE materials to the community were implemented. She assured that the endemic outbreak of malaria at Block 27 is now under control
Councilor Andrada also announced that the City is celebrating the National Disability Week from July 17 to July 23, 2004 under the theme “Tagumpay ng May Kapansanan, Tagumpay ng Bayan”. This activity endeavors to create awareness to the public the plight of persons with disabilities, because we can only address the problems of the disabled sector thru the support and cooperation of government and non-government organizations, the private sector, the community and the persons with disabilities themselves and their families. This activity also aims to look on their capabilities and harness them so that they can be productive members of the society, she said.
The Presiding Officer was also glad to know from Councilor Andrada that cases of Dengue in the City had gone down compared last year.
Councilor Piano notified the body that an Overseas Summit was conducted last July 9, 2004 at the PICC in an effort to prevent or stop the abuses on our Overseas Filipino Workers who are in desperate need to earn a living. In the said Summit, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo created the task force against illegal recruiters. The President also directed Gen. Reynaldo Jaylo to track down illegal recruiters, prosecute them in accordance with the law for economic sabotage which is punishable with life sentence. A stern warning was also given to airport and immigration personnel who are in cahoots with illegal recruiters and human traffickers.
The Councilor also announced that there will be job fair for local and overseas employment to be held on July 16, 2004 at the Rizal Triangle Multi Purpose Center. It was confirmed that 9 legal overseas employment agencies and 7 local companies will be participating in the said fair.
Councilor Piano also relayed that during a meeting with the SBMA Labor Center, they assured him that they will be sending representatives and the people or HR Managers from investors to participate. This first collaborative work between Olongapo City and SBMA were happy that this endeavor will benefit first our people who are seeking for employment. Even the newly elected Congresswoman Mitos Magsaysay pledged her full support for the success of this event.
Councilor Gina Perez raised some issues regarding the proposed mini zoo. Her committee found out that a certain Myrna Arcega sold a lot located at No. 1887 Bennet Road, Purok 4, Old Cabalan to Donalyn Celas and Domingo Higante. It turned-out that the lot is located inside the proposed mini-zoo and so the said area is not subject for disposition nor acquisition under Public Land Act. Further, a barangay certification was even issued by Barangay Chairman Rolando S. Alba of Old Cabalan regarding the said lot sold.
For this matter, Councilor Perez referred the same to the Committee on Environment, Housing and Zoning since the subject lot is also inside the watershed and the Committee on Laws and Investigation for their action.
The Presiding Officer also called the attention of Councilor Capistrano to act on the said matter since a barangay certification had been involved in the said sale of lot.
Councilor Asuncion shared to the body the present project of the Balikatan Ladies of Olongapo Movement (BLOOM) which they call “Bayanihang Paluwagan” which targets the participation of students and housewives. The Balikatan Ladies of Sta. Rita, Presidents and Officials of 17 Barangays in Olongapo started the said project. The concept is to invest in a small scale business or provide loans to members at a lower interest rate derived from whatever savings generated within the week, which are deposited to the treasurer of the group. Each group is composed of 30 members on a trial period of 6 months.
ABC President Capistrano told everyone that according to reports of residents at 18th, 21st and Davidson Streets, operators/drivers of blue and cream jeepneys still do not follow the required one-lane queue of their vehicles.
The Presiding Officer called the attention of Councilor Cajudo regarding this matter. The latter explained that such complaint be written and endorsed formally to serve as basis for the revocation of franchise of violators.
Councilor Aquino reported that he wrote Dr. Julie Reyes, General Manager of PUD of Olongapo City and requested her to submit the list of receivables affected by the Amnesty Scheme proposed by the said office. The partial list had already been forwarded which is expected to reflect the amount Php1,542,018.79 worth of payments to the City. The additional list will be provided as soon as possible, he said.
Councilor Piano apprised the body regarding the letter request of the employees of Korea Subic, one of the companies at the SBFZ whose owners claimed to have gone bankrupt. The 40 employees whose legal counsel is Atty.Noel Y. Atienza, were to claim around Php686,803 left unpaid by the owner. Inorder to process their claim, they are soliciting from the Councilors the amount needed for them to publish their summons on newspaper which would amount to five of six thousand pesos. Their counsel had already donated 2 thousand pesos and thus the remaining amount are to be solicited.
The Presiding Officer shared to the body that he conducted an inspection at Begonia St., Sta. Rita to double-check the road repair project conducted on the said street. It was observed that the level of the two ends of the street is higher than that of its middle. Thus, the residents on the middle of the street are complaining that they catch much of the flood water during heavy downpour.
Vice Mayor Paulino gladly announced that young tennis champion Patrick John Tierro from the City stood as the lone representative of our country to the prestigious German Open. He also reported that Chairman Felicito Payumo paid a visit to the City Council and met the Honorable City Mayor Bong Gordon afterwards for an important meeting. He also instructed Councilor Piano to assess the staffing /needs requirement of the departments.
Calendar of Business
Second Reading:
1. On motion of Councilor Cajudo, the body deferred the approval of Draft Ordinance No. 2004 – O-01 – An Ordinance Reverting The Amount Of Two Million Fifty Nine Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty Two Pesos (PhP2,059,832.00) From Trust Fund To General Fund Recognizing The Said Amount As Income From Accumulated Tuition And Related Fees And Appropriating The Same To The Items Capital Outlay And Maintenance & Other Operating Expenses Of Gordon College.
2. On motion of Councilor Aquino, the body approved on second and final readings Draft Ordinance No. 2004 – O-02 – An Ordinance Adopting The Amnesty Scheme 2004 Of The Public Utilities Department (PUD).
Other Matters
The following items were considered by the body as urgent matters and were unanimously approved on first, second and final readings:
1. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-02 – A Resolution Adopting The Internal Rules Of Procedure Of The Sangguniang Panlungsod (2004-2007). Sponsored By Councilor Noel Y. Atienza
2. Draft Resolution No. 2004–R-03 – A Resolution Confirming The Appointment Of Elflida S. Salmon, As City Government Department Head II (City Council Secretary) SG-26 Under The Office Of The City Council. Sponsored by Councilor Edwin J. Piano.
3. A Resolution Conveying Deepest Sympathies To The Bereaved Family Of The Late Kagawad Romeo Gatbunton. Unanimous.
Adjournment
There being no further business to be discussed, the session was adjourned at 4:45 in the afternoon.
I HEREBY CERTIFY TO THE
CORRECTNESS OF THE FOREGOING:
ELFLIDA S. SALMON
Acting Council Secretary
ATTEST:
ROLEN C. PAULINO
City Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer
posted by Anonymous at
9/05/2004
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