ZAMBOANGA CITY — In a bold move to uphold ethical governance, newly-installed Mayor Khymer Olaso on Monday, July 7, ordered the immediate removal of tarpaulins and billboards bearing the names and faces of public officials from all government-funded projects in the city.
Speaking before department heads and key officials at City Hall, Mayor Olaso declared a firm stance against so-called “epal” practices — a term widely used to describe politicians who use public resources for self-promotion. “I will not allow these practices under my administration. We are putting the city government on the right track and right direction,” he said.
The mayor emphasized that all project billboards should display only essential project details, along with the phrase “From the people of Zamboanga City.” He said government programs should reflect transparency and public service, not political self-interest.
Mayor Olaso also directed General Services Officer Engr. Rene de la Cruz to discontinue the use of tents with names of elected officials during city-sponsored activities. Instead, the city government will acquire large tents emblazoned only with “City Government of Zamboanga” to ensure uniformity and neutrality in all public events.
Further tightening the reins on patronage politics, Olaso instructed the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to prevent politicians from participating in cash aid distributions. “This is another form of political patronage and is highly unethical,” he said.
In the area of infrastructure, particularly school buildings, the City Engineer’s Office was ordered to strictly adhere to the standard color scheme and design guidelines set by the Department of Education, eliminating the common practice of branding public structures with personalized motifs.
Mayor Olaso’s sweeping reforms mark a significant departure from longstanding political customs in Zamboanga City, signaling his administration’s commitment to ethical leadership and people-centered governance.