The complaint, reportedly initiated by concerned citizens, centers on the alleged distribution of rice to barangays and individuals who were not affected by any declared calamity. According to the complainants, the rice distribution was politically motivated, as only supporters of Mayor Garcia’s mayoral campaign were given aid and that the calamity funds are used to procure the rice even without the need to do so. Moreover, the individuals involved in the distribution were allegedly wearing campaign shirts prominently bearing the mayor’s face, further fueling suspicions of using public funds for electoral gain.
The group of Carbon residents who raised the issue stated that it is only proper to support those who courageously stepped forward to file the complaint, as it is in the public’s best interest to verify whether the allegations are factual or merely hearsay. “It is vital for the people of Cebu City to know the truth — where the funds came from and who should be held accountable,” said the group in a statement. “Justice and truth must prevail.”
The group also appealed to lawyers who had previously supported their efforts in declaring the 50-year Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) between the Cebu City Government and Megawide Construction Corporation illegal. This controversial JVA sought to privatize the Carbon Public Market — a move that was met with public outcry. Specifically, they called on Atty. Edmond Lao, Atty. Ian Manticajon, Atty. Manuel Mac Gordon, and Atty. Kristian Jacob Lora to extend their legal assistance once again.
Additionally, the group criticized the city’s proposed P500-million budget to relocate the City Hall to the South Road Properties (SRP). They expressed that such funds could be better allocated to develop the Carbon Market, addressing long-standing issues such as sanitation, safety, and infrastructure. “This way, we avoid handing over the market to big corporations whose interest is profit, at the expense of small vendors and residents in nearby communities like Sitio Bato,” they said.
The group concluded with a firm message: “Let the truth come out. Let justice be served. And may the resources of the city be used for the benefit of the many, not the few.”
The Office of the Ombudsman has yet to release an official response regarding the complaint.
