ORMOC CITY — In her 2024 State of the City Address (SOCA) on Monday, October 14, Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez posed a pivotal question to her constituents: “How did we get here?” as she highlighted the journey that has made Ormoc among the growing cities in the country.

Gomez emphasized the importance of consistent effort, stating, “To put it simply, we put in the work—daily. There are no shortcuts.”

Reflecting on her inaugural speech in 2022, she reiterated her vision of the “Tree of Dreams,” where they have diligently sown the seeds of Peace, Health, Social and Physical Infrastructure, Economic Prosperity, and Sustainability.

Building on the foundation laid by former mayor and current Congressman Richard Gomez, she expressed pride in the city’s expansion: “We have grown. We are stronger. We are bigger.”

She acknowledged the hard work that has gone into achieving these developments, saying, “The most difficult part of the job is the actual work.”

During her SOCA, Gomez underscored the need for resources to realize these dreams as she formally presented to the members of the city council the P2.72 billion budget for next fiscal year.

In her address, Gomez extended her appreciation to all workers and employees of the city government.

“To those who greet us good morning every day, process our permits, budgets, payrolls, and certifications, and keep our streets and water systems clean, I salute you and thank you,” she said.

“No job is ever too big or small. We all need each other and must support one another. We are a strong force of 3,993—perhaps imperfect but always determined, united by a singular vision of making Ormoc shine,” the city mayor said.

Gomez thanked her team for embracing her vision and that of the Ormoc Development Team (ODT). “Yes, I am an exacting boss. I expect much from you because much is also expected from me. Together, let us not disappoint.”

She noted the systematic professionalization of City Hall during her husband’s administration, with new departments established for clearer accountability and reporting lines.

“It was during his time that employees were nurtured and encouraged to enhance their skills through seminars, executive courses, capacity building, and benchmarking with other LGUs and established companies,” she said, highlighting that members of the LGU attended Lee Kwan Yew University in Singapore last July.

“Your strength will be mine, too. I am only as good as the people I work with,” she added.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY– Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez delivered her State of City Address(Soca) on Monday, Oct.14, as she reflected on the city’s progress under her leadership and laying out her vision for its future, as she presented the proposed 2025 city budget of P2.7 billion to the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

In a speech marked by gratitude and determination, Mayor Gomez, who is seeking for a second term in next year’s elections, thanked Ormoc’s residents for entrusting her with the role of mayor, calling it both humbling and empowering.

As she wraps up her first term, she described it as “the honor of my life” and expressed hope that she had lived up to their expectations.

Acknowledging the foundations laid by her predecessor and husband, Rep. Richard Gomez, she noted how Ormoc has expanded and grown stronger.

The mayor emphasized that “there are no shortcuts” to the work needed for the city’s development.

“My work is not just a responsibility; it is a vocation—a calling to lead Ormoc toward its fullest potential,” she said, paying tribute to the support of her city council and fellow public servants who share her vision for Ormoc’s future.

During the session, the mayor presented the proposed 2025 annual budget, amounting to P2.7 billion, which includes allocations for both the general fund and the city’s local economic enterprise.

She asked the city council, led by Vice Mayor Leo Carmelo Locsin Sr., to approve the budget, highlighting its role in continuing the city’s path toward prosperity.

The budget’s approval would pave the way for further development, particularly in infrastructure and social services, areas the mayor has prioritized throughout her term.

While the mayor acknowledged the visible progress, such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies and new facilities, she emphasized that the true work happens behind the scenes.

She thanked the thousands of City Hall workers and employees who keep the city running smoothly. From street cleaners to administrative staff, the mayor praised their dedication and acknowledged the unglamorous yet essential roles they play in the city’s success.

“Every job matters, and together, we are 3,993 strong—imperfect, but efficient,” she said, recognizing the teamwork required to bring Ormoc’s dreams to life.

In her speech, Mayor Gomez acknowledged that Ormoc is not yet where she wants it to be, but expressed confidence in the city’s continued progress.

She announced her re-election bid for 2025, choosing to file on October 2, the International Day of Non-Violence, as a symbol of her commitment to peace, a value she believes is crucial to the city’s future.

“Peace is the foundation of our dreams,” she declared, vowing to protect the peace Ormoc has worked so hard to achieve.

With the support of her team, the Ormoc Development Team (ODT), and the city’s resilient workforce, the mayor remains steadfast in her belief that “the best is yet to come” for Ormoc City. (JOEY A. GABIETA)