Friday, February 12, 2010 [ sunstar.com.ph ]
By Ma. Elena Catajan
La Trinidad, Benguet – A former mayor asked the members of the local council here to consider a multi-sectoral assembly before finalizing the commercial complex deal between a Chinese firm and the municipality.
“We need to have more representation from the multi-sectoral groups in deciding whether the town should have a mall,” former mayor Edna Tabanda said.
The concept of developing the market area is commendable but the councilors must clarify the transactions made and the nature of the structure of the Jarco Realty and Development Corporation mall.
The commercial complex is set to stand three-storey high with an area of 3,9000 square meters at the public market, which is now being used as a parking area for vegetable trucks and jeepney. The construction is proposed under a build-operate-and-transfer (BOT) agreement.
“We are not saying to do away with the project but the [local] government should listen to more people,” she said.
The former mayor stressed that the structure of the mall should be safe to the environment and beneficial to all.
Councilor Jerome Selmo said the legislative body is flexible and can accommodate the suggestions.
Published in the Sun.Star Baguio newspaper on February 12, 2010.
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