Latest in Subic Bay

Inspired by bloggers covering the 2004 US presidential elections, this Webmaster thought of starting a web log (blog) of what’s happening in Subic Bay, Philippines.

Right after PGMA had given her State of the Nation Address last July 26, 2004, controversial political bickering immediately followed. While some competition appears to be discreet, its resurgence could be an eruption waiting to happen

Clash of opinion and political positioning for the hotly contested position of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator quickly resurfaced. Felicito “Tong” Payumo is doing everything to cling to the position.

Groups of all shapes, sizes and creed wanted to influence the president’s decision in order to assure themselves a piece of the pie.The president it seems, was not comfortable in appointing any of the earlier short-listed contenders submitted by the search committee that include:

Present SBMA Chairman Felicito Payumo, former Zambales Governor Amor Deloso, former Nueva Ecija Mayor/Congressman and presently Chief of MRT Fajardo, former congresswoman and mayor of Olongapo Katherine Gordon, retiring PNP General Ebdane, SBMA Director JV Magsaysay, and SBMA COO Rex Chan. In the May 10, 2004 presidential election, Gloria Arroyo lost in provinces of the above contenders.

Amidst long list of candidates floating alternatively for the past three years, a new name surfaced Mr. Carlos S. Co, President of Cebu Chamber of Commerce & Industry This may be due to the president’s hesitation to appoint Ace Durano to top DOT post which the Cebu people (where Arroyo got the much needed vote to win the presidency) are clamoring for.

The name of former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of SBMA during Dick Gordon's time (1992-1998) and Administrator of Cagayan Freeport Zone from 1998 to 2001, INKY REYES is surfacing as strongest contender to the COO position.

Whatever happens in the next few days, one thing is for sure, people who have learned to love Subic Bay will expect nothing less than the best at the helm of Philippines’ first Freeport.