The Cebu City government has received a significant legal endorsement for its pioneering plan to operate on a 24-hour basis. The City Legal Office (CLO) has issued a favorable opinion on Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña's proposal, finding no legal barriers to authorizing Mayor Nestor Archival to lease an office space at Cebu IT Park for the innovative 'Mayor of the Night' program.
Legal Opinion Paves the Way for Nighttime Operations
In a formal recommendation dated October 27, 2025, and addressed to Sangguniang Panglungsod Secretary Charisse Piramide, the CLO declared the proposed multi-year lease contract for an office in IT Park, Barangay Lahug, to be 'valid and in order.' The legal body confirmed that the contract's terms align with existing laws, morals, customs, and public policy.
The CLO did, however, recommend minor adjustments to the budget's wording. It suggested changing the term 'Total Approved Budget (For Lease Agreements)' to 'Proposed Estimated Budget for Multi-Year Lease Contract.' This budget is intended to cover the monthly rentals from January 1, 2026, to June 30, 2028. Furthermore, the CLO emphasized the necessity of securing a Multi-Year Contracting Authority as mandated by the New Government Procurement Act (Republic Act 12009) before any procurement can proceed.
Program Vision and Political Scrutiny
The core mission of the 'Mayor of the Night' program is to extend city hall services around the clock, catering to the needs of residents, workers, and businesses active after dark. This initiative aims to make Cebu City the first local government unit in the Philippines to offer 24/7 services, ensuring safer commutes and accessible governance at all hours.
Despite the legal clearance, the program has faced scrutiny. Councilor Pastor 'Jun' Alcover raised concerns about the P12 million allocation for the three-year lease and the creation of a new official title. Alcover clarified that his issue was not with the rental cost itself but with the principle of establishing a new position, questioning the prioritization of renting office space before fully clarifying the budget's details.
In defense, Mayor Archival stated that the P12 million is a total budget for three years and may not be spent in its entirety. 'Putting an office there will really help them,' Archival said, underscoring the program's focus on public service and economic support. He also affirmed his positive working relationship with Vice Mayor Osmeña, the proposal's author, stating they maintain a good friendship and are open to discussions for the public's benefit.
The Path Forward for Cebu's Nighttime Governance
With the CLO's recommended corrections fulfilled, the City Council can now formally authorize Mayor Archival to enter into the lease contract. This action will be the final step needed to fully launch the 'Mayor of the Night' program by early 2026, with Vice Mayor Osmeña taking the lead in managing the city's nighttime operations from the new IT Park office.
