Mayor Khymer Olaso on Monday, September 22, held his first City Hall press briefing, outlining his administration’s top priorities and identifying peace and order, traffic management, and flood control as Zamboanga’s most pressing challenges.

Mayor Olaso emphasized that addressing these issues require strong inter-agency coordination, active community involvement, sufficient budget support and stricter discipline.

On peace and order, the mayor acknowledged the persistent threat of illegal drugs and pledged stronger barangay-based programs and sustained support for law enforcement to ensure citywide safety.

Traffic congestion continues to affect commuters and motorists. Olaso said his administration has deployed fare dispatchers to curb overcharging; initiated measures to fast track road repairs and strictly enforce traffic regulations in close coordination with relevant agencies.

Flood-prone areas will benefit from a comprehensive mitigation plan included in the 2026 budget, along with ongoing declogging and clearing operations to reduce the impact of heavy rains.

Meanwhile, the local chief executive underscored the value of learning from the best practices of Pampanga, Las Piñas and Mandaluyong during benchmarking activities, aiming to bring innovative improvements for Zamboangueños.

City officials, including Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Mayor Celso Lobregat, City Administrator Percival Ramos, City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite, City Engineer Christopher Navarro, City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian, Retired General and Executive Assistant II Edwin de Ocampo, and Executive Assistant II Christian Olasiman, provided updates on health, infrastructure, traffic, proper waste segregation, removal of hazardous “spaghetti wires,” school building rehabilitation, teacher allowances and preparations for the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival 2025, and many others.

All officials pledged full support for Mayor Olaso’s directives and commitment to advancing the city’s priorities, through joint cooperation. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Albert Atilano)