Even among those who were not in the same political perspective, the flames of friendship should be kept aburning to enliven the spirit it wishes to commemorate. Thus said City Mayor Dan Neri Lim when asked to comment on reports that he personally welcomed all newly elected and reelected officials to the different activities of the Sandugo festival particularly last night's boxing bout. The boxing match held at the Carlos P. Garcia sports complex drew exclusive coverage from ABS-CBN with no less than Dyan Castillejo, the network giant's sports host expected to cover the event live from Tagbilaran. “I have always believed that while we might disagree on many things, we must continue to respect each other's position if not the person occupying it,” the mayor said. Lim did not directly reply to questions he personally sent tickets to Gov. Edgar Chatto, Vice Gov. Concepcion Lim Tan and all elected officials that he did not support in the last election. The mayor, however, reiterated that while he openly disagrees with the manner policies and programs of other officials are implemented, he continues to hold them in respect.

Lim also pointed out that the Sandugo about friendship and harmony by two complete strangers alluding to the blood compact between Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. “If they can agree to be friends, there is even more reason for us to work for unity for the sake of our people,” he added. The mayor said public officials can disagree with each other but they have a responsibility to their people to work for the best interest of the majority. For this reason, he said officials must make every effort to work together until it becomes virtually impossible to do so. “Of course, we should also bear in mind that harmony should not come at the expense of sincere public service,” he noted. The mayor said this means that harmony would have to take a back seat to public interest. “If public interest is at stake, harmony will have to be sacrificed because there is a higher calling to which we are committed,” he added. Lim, however, refused to comment further saying it is the season for fun and revelry so disagreements should be set aside. “There is a time for everything. For the moment, this is a time to enjoy and celebrate,” he concluded.