A new ‘miracle’ in Subic, with Palace intervention

It wasn’t long ago when Subic showcased the best in the Filipino.

Just as the world watched aghast how Clark Air Base was stripped down to the last toilet bowl by looters shortly after the Americans abandoned it, the world later stood in awe and admiration of the zealousness of the “Olongapo volunteers” in safeguarding the billion-dollar facilities left behind by the US Navy in Subic.

No looting took place in all the areas guarded by them. The only looting there was in the Subic Command building which served as headquarters of a military contingent.

The Subic Bay Freeport was founded on the honesty, sacrifice and selfless dedication of Olongapo residents who, despite a seemingly bleak future without the Americans, remained steadfast and accomplished the “Subic Miracle.”

Now, by a twist of fate, Subic is again in center stage because of another “miracle.” This time, it is of the despicable kind. Once famous for having strict rules and regulations (gate passes for entry, purchase cards for buying PX goods, stiff traffic policy), Subic is now notorious for the “miracle” of smuggled goods, luxury vehicles and oil fuel. A smuggling hotbed. What happened?

Under Republic Act 7227, the Subic Bay Freeport supposedly enjoys autonomy from the national government. As the first-ever free port in the country, it has its own governing rules and its own tight security policy carried over from the time it was still a US naval base.

During her presidency, Cory Aquino hardly meddled in the affairs of Subic. Neither did President Fidel Ramos, who threw his full support behind the leadership of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority then. Smuggling might have reared its ugly head during that time, but it is safe to say that it was only “on a small, manageable scale.”

But when President Joseph Estrada came to power, Malacañang started to exercise dominion over Subic and this was when large-scale smuggling started. The problem worsened when Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and the First Gentleman spread their tentacles all over Subic.

Yes, the problem in Subic is Malacañang. Its tenants should keep their hands off the free port. And they should get their dirty, retired generals out of there.

Yes, Malacañang should let competent, apolitical executives manage the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, and smuggling will be minimized if not totally curbed. It is not too late to save and pursue the promise of Subic.

EMILIO TRINIDAD, 85 Rizal Ave., West Tapinac, Olongapo City