Councilor Conde C. Baluran (Robby Joy D. Salveron / davaotoday.com)
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Councilor Conde C. Baluran proposed to the City Council on Tuesday, January 30, that elevators be put up in the city’s two main government buildings.
In time with the renewal of business permits, Baluran said he witnessed how “excruciating” it is for people to go up and down the stairs as they process different transactions in the different offices located at the City Hall and Sangguniang Panglungsod.
“I used to hear from them climbing up uttering, ‘Hoo! Paita ‘ning kinabuhia’ (What a bitter life) while gushing and catching up their breath,” he said in his privilege speech during the regular session.
The proposal aims to benefit local and foreign investors, especially those who are senior citizens, elders, pregnant women and persons with disabilities, the councilor explained.
“For senior citizens, elders and persons with disability who desire to lead an independent life in spite of their physical facility, installation of those lifting machine will the most adequately practical and convenient solution to cater their bodily needs,” he said.
Baluran maintained that putting-up elevators will be of “great relief” as it lessens physical burden of those benefiting it.
The Sangguniang Panglungsod may have one existing elevator, but the councilor said this “remains inoperative.”
Baluran said the proposed measure would also help strengthen the city’s emergent capacity as an investment and tourism hub.
The City Council considered the proposal on first reading and was referred to the committee level, where the budget and possible location will be discussed. (davaotoday.com)
