CEBU CITY – Mayor Edgardo Labella has filed an indefinite leave of absence as he continues his recovery after being diagnosed with sepsis or blood infection.
City Administrator Floro Casas Jr. said Labella is experiencing "on and off pneumonia" that forced him to extend his leave absence.
Labella has already filed seven leave of absences this year. The last one was supposed to end last October 7.
With Labella away, Vice Mayor Michael Rama will again be the city's acting mayor.
Casas said Labella was advised by his doctors to fully rest until he is strong enough to report to work.
“He wants to focus on his full recovery. Anyway, Vice Mayor Mike Rama is there to serve as acting mayor,” said Casas.
Labella first filed a leave of absence last January due to ear infection.
The mayor took another break last May 31 after he was admitted in a hospital due to slight pneumonia.
Last June, Labella took a three-week leave after he was diagnosed with sepsis.
Heavy coughing was the reason when Labella filed another leave last July 14.
Labella filed another leave from September 2-7 and another one from September 20-October 7.
Despite the repeated leave of absences, Labella has no plans of resigning and is determined to finish his term, Casas said.
“Resignation is out of the question. Mayor Edgar will finish his term although from time to time, he will take a break if needed by his body," said Casas.