Tagum Mayor vows to finish city hall built by previous administration

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, July 29—Mayor Allan L. Rellon is determined to finish the construction of this city’s iconic new city hall during his term, stressing that it’s high time that the said building should now serve its main purpose.

“I’m doing my best to preserve the 231 million pesos,” said the local chief executive, referring to the amount of money secured by the local government through a loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines.

Expressing confidence that the money would ensure the city hall’s completion, Mayor Rellon said this is among his administration’s priorities since the general Tagumeño populace and even those outside the region is eagerly awaiting for its completion.

“Kayang tapusin (It can be completed), and we are determined to finish it because I know the city hall does not only represent Tagum City but it also represents the entire region and even the entire Mindanao,” the mayor told architect-members of the (UAP) United Architects of the Philippines-North Davao Chapter during their 3rd Induction of Officers and New Members of UAP Davao Chapter led by its President Architect Benjamin K. Pangalinan, Jr. last July 25, 2013 in Miko’s Brew.

True to his advocacy on consultative and participatory governance, Mayor Rellon asked for support for the Region XI-based architects in guiding his administration to matters related to their field.

“I do believe that your sector will contribute a lot to our city in our quest for continuing development.”

As of press time, the new city hall is being cordoned to give way to the Commission on Audit (COA) which is currently assessing the said building, as well as auditing the multi-million peso funds used for its construction.

Mayor Rellon said this is a welcome development so he will be guided in his future course of action through recommendations from COA regarding the completion of the said building. 

Based on the estimates from the project manager City Architect Julius Imboy, the building is now 70% completed. (By Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)