My Superbalita reporters are finding it hard to dig up records on "coring" results at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Getting these records is one way of uncovering the alleged asphalt anomaly during the preparations for the ASEAN summit. My source told me the current OIC ordered the coring operations to force the contractors to shell out "silence" money.
A highly placed contact told me that Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG) chief Antonio Villar has the full trust of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. This despite the silent protests staged by importers and brokers as well as the damage to the economy all these will do.
As a result, local importers and brokers are at a loss at what to do. The PASG is asking them a very high ‘tara’ for every container.
They are also asking themselves: what is the president’s agenda? Is she angry her favored SEnate bets lost last May?
NOnetheless, the hope now is the possibility of a compromise with PASG. Ihatag na lang kuno sa PASG ang ilang gusto kon mosugot nga pagamyan ang tara. The alternative is: no money for PASG pockets, no business for the businessmen, bad for the Philippine economy, bad for GMA.
I’ve just made a new blog akokulom.wordpress.com where I plan to post all my English and Bisaya columns. Karlo’s idea actually but I think it’s good.
We will be going today to Cantao-an, Naga for the inauguration of the first SME Industrial Park in the country, thanks to Planters Development Bank and Ambassador Jesus Tambunting. SMEs locating at the park will enjoy privileges previously enjoyed only by the truly big players.
The guests expected to grace the occasion are Secretary Cerge Remonde, Gov. Gwen Garcia and Mayor Val Chiong.
More on this after the event.
