Public debate over the Gilat-owned atoll at a legislative meeting
Revised Article:
The Office of the Building Official (OBO) in Cebu City is catching flak for action taken against Mang Inasal over their sidewalk occupation back in 2025. During a public hearing last Wednesday, June 11, 2025, councilors expressed their frustration with the ongoing issue about a particular Mang Inasal branch that's been using the sidewalk at F. Gonzales corner Osmena Boulevard, flagrantly disregarding building codes.
Councilor Pastor Alcover, one of the councilors voicing discontent, said, "I've had enough of this bullcrap. What's the deal with them occupying the sidewalk? Did they buy the zoning and somehow obtain the permit to do so?"
Alcover questioned why the establishment continues to operate despite numerous complaints from pedestrians who had a hard time navigating the street. He even suggested an investigation, "In short, Cebu City is being wasteful if this is indeed the case, and I hope we take action about it."
Anne Marie Cuizon, Assistant Department Head at the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), confirmed that Mang Inasal has no locational clearance. Cuizon also mentioned that the issue had been referred to the OBO as early as 2019 or 2020.
Emmanuel Cuizon, a representative from OBO, admitted during the hearing that no building permit was issued for Mang Inasal. He explained that the arcaded sidewalk remains part of the property, and the extension of the business beyond the arcade could potentially interfere with the sidewalk.
Although councilor Alcover reiterated his concerns, "If there's no building permit, they must not be paying the due fees. That's just the way the story goes."
Concerns over the legal action's delay were raised by Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera as early as 2019, particularly with the Emall establishment also being accused of sidewalk occupation.
Cuizon from OBO stated that they had issued notices and filed complaints with the City Legal Office (CLO) in 2019. However, a subpoena and a clarificatory conference were the only actions taken thus far, with the ground floor landing still not being addressed regarding the sidewalk.
Konsehal Jerry Guardo, head of the infrastructure committee, expressed bewilderment about the OBO's inability to stop the illegal construction. "Where is their budget for that? How come they can't stop the illegal construction?" Guardo questioned.
Emmanuel Cuizon defended the OBO's efforts. "That's also a cry for our office because we keep sending them notices, but they still don't comply," he stated. He also mentioned that numerous subpoenas have been issued, necessitating court hearings to clarify provisions in the National Building Code.
The OBO reportedly requires assistance from the Philippine National Police (PNP) for enforcing regulations due to the resistance from businesses. Councilor Jose Lorenzo Abellanosa supported councilor Alcover's call for improved enforcement, stating, "Enforcement should be improved, plain and simple." ***/ JPS ***
- The ongoing issue of Mang Inasal's sidewalk occupation in Cebu City, which disregards building codes, has sparked discussions in the realm of policy-and-legislation and politics, as councilors, including Councilor Pastor Alcover, question why the establishment continues to operate without a building permit.
- The delay in legal action against establishments like Mang Inasal, accused of sidewalk occupation, is a matter of general news and concern for Cebu City officials, such as Councilor Jerry Guardo, who are calling for improved enforcement and assistance from agencies like the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure regulations are enforced.
