A big bang in Alabang

The saga involving this exclusive country club in Alabang is taking on a new turn with the irrevocable resignation of its general manager. The GM, whose resignation takes effect Jan. 30, had alleged that the new board of directors wanted to install their own people for the position. A more compelling reason for the GM’s resignation, however, is his inability to answer complaints from members regarding alleged corrupt practices of some directors. Apparently, he is tired of taking all the flak for the directors’ shenanigans. Ironically, this GM had been a staunch defender of the club’s directors, refuting the claims of a suspended member about anomalies such as bloated expenses for a renovation project. Candidates for his position are crooks as well, the disheartened manager also claimed. Apparently, he wants his exit to create a big bang in Alabang.

Counter-terrorism intel-Part 1

Spybiz obtained confidential intel assessing the government’s counter-terrorism efforts. The assessment, which was reportedly made by mid-level and retired officers from the armed forces gave seven points outlining reasons why counter-terrorism efforts have not been very effective. Point 1 outlined the need for a law that would arm the people. Government also has to be clear on how to treat the CPP-NPA. A case in point is when the late Blas Ople and his group lobbied for the inclusion of the CPP-NPA-NDF in the European Union’s terrorist list, some EU members questioned this because the Philippine government itself has not even declared them illegal. While government is aware that the Left uses the peace process as a strategic tool to gain political and military mileage, government has not responded in a decisive manner. Government has to decide what it really wants, otherwise it will keep dancing to whatever tune the Communists play, and forces on the ground would be even more confused than they already are today. While policy directives and operational plans are clear, a lot of them have remained just plans. A major problem is execution either because of lack of resources or competent implementers. There is a clear need to motivate officers both in the AFP and PNP to have the passion and dedication to really get rid of the terrorist problems. A big factor is the aversion of officers in risking their careers because of potential filing of charges against them. This is also a consequence of assigning and appointing generals who do not have combat experience when they were junior and mid level officers. The AFP’s continued employment of conventional tactics in warfare was also pointed out. The shift to unconventional warfare is sorely needed, and this would entail a thorough review on the utilization of special units in the past to give policy makers a better insight. Government forces have been effective in the past given the right conditions such as clear policy, strategy and support. More next issue.

Moves to privatize PAGCOR counter productive

Pasig City Rep. Robert "Dodot" Jaworski Jr. and Quezon City Rep. Danilo Suarez filed House Bills 3981 and 4136 proposing the privatization of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR). Their bills intend to raise P80 billion for government priority projects such as education, public health and infrastructure. In 2004, the state-run gaming firm posted an impressive P21.9 billion and fully expects to surpass this record in 2005 with a projected total annual income of P23 billion. Based on these figures, P80 billion in revenues can be easily generated in less than four years given the trend of successful management by one of the state’s most profitable corporations. Meanwhile, the renewal of PAGCOR’s charter presently hinges on the Senate as the House of Representatives has done its job. The charter renewal ushers in a new era for PAGCOR operations especially when it implements Chairman and CEO Efraim C. Genuino’s vision of the Bagong Nayon Pilipino-Entertainment City which is set to rise along a stretch of Manila’s prime reclaimed area. The City is envisioned to be a

fully integrated entertainment and leisure complex reflecting the best of the natural charm, vibrant culture and warm hospitality of Filipinos. It offers wholesome fun for people of all ages, and gambling would take a back seat to tourism-impelled growth. Upon completion of the City, projections are as follows: $7 billion in direct tourist receipts and $10 billion in gross domestic product by 2010 plus direct employment from some five million jobs. All the necessary ingredients sans financing are indigenously available to fuel Genuino’s vision. But these plans become meaningless if PAGCOR is privatized or the Senate does not act on its franchise. Privatization will only attract hooligans in suits who can even use its profits to fund terrorist activities in the country. A short-lived franchise, on the other hand, is a disincentive to business integrators and businessmen from investing in the City.

Spy tidbiz: Changing counsel

Spybiz sources reported that Ricardo Silverio Jr. is planning to file a complaint at the Integrated Bar of the Philippines against his former lawyer Vicente Chuidian. Ricky’s complaint allegedly stems from the fact that Atty. Chuidian is now acting as counsel for Ricardo Sr. Father and son had been engaged in a long-running feud about property issues. It can be recalled that Chuidian represented Ricardo Jr. in the latter’s Tuscany condo case against polo player Bobby Aguirre. Ricky apparently feels at a disadvantage because Chuidian had access to vital information that he could use to the advantage of Ricardo Sr.

* * *

Join our ring of Eye-spies by sending your intelligence information, complaints, pictures, and comments to [email protected].

All information will be strictly confidential