Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez to restrict derby proposals for inclusion

Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez announced that no further proposed ordinances concerning derbies will be allowed for inclusion in the agenda of regular sessions, citing that the proposals are frequently added to the agenda at the last minute.

"This will be the last time (that) we (will) accommodate (these proposals) for inclusion. Otherwise, they have to do the hearing 2 to 3 months prior unless it is really important," Vice Mayor Rodriguez stated.

The announcement came after Councilor Roger Abaday sought approval of the proposed ordinance approving the application of Indahag Square Garden's 3-stag derby on July 29, 2024, in celebration of the fiesta of Mt. Carmel at Habitat Phase 2, Barangay Indahag.

Councilor Abaday explained that the application had been delayed in the City Legal Office despite being submitted earlier.

Vice Mayor Rodriguez emphasized the need for fairness among council members, noting that all other members go through the standard committee hearing process and the City Legal Office review.

"It is your responsibility to facilitate and follow up," Vice Mayor Rodriguez told Councilor Abaday.

Councilor Romeo Calizo supported Vice Mayor Rodriguez's statement, reminding all committee chairs of their responsibilities.

Addressing the delay, Councilor Calizo said, "During committee hearings, when you are sitting down as a resource person, you should be armed with references for speedy decision-making," noting that such delays on derby-related legislations had never occurred in his nine years as a councilor.

In response to these concerns, Vice Mayor Rodriguez announced that she would write a letter to the City Legal Office to address the matter promptly.