Malacañang intervenes in SBMA leadership crisis

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang has stepped in into the leadership crisis at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) after a tug-of-war between anti-crime crusader Martin Dino and SBMA deputy administrator Randy Escolango. 

In a letter dated Nov. 28, Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra advised Dino the designation of Escolangco, a lawyer, as officer-in-charge of the Office of the Administrator of SBMA, “has not been revoked” by the Office of the President.

“Thus, (it) remains in full force and effect,” said Guevarra’s letter sent to Dino, who sought the clarification from the Office of the Executive Secretary.  This also clarifies Dino’s designation as chairman of the board (not concurrent administrator).

Guevarra also cited Section 13 (d) of Republic Act 7227 that “the administrator of the SBMA shall be appointed by the President and no other.”

Guevarra’s response came after Dino notified their office that he has assumed office last Nov. 21 as chairman/administrator.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea has issued a memorandum wherein Escolangco was designated OIC last Oct. 19.

Dino, however, has assumed the concurrent post of chairman and administrator last Oct. 3.

He had also signed an office order designating himself as officer-in-charge of the Law Enforcement Department of the SBMA last Nov. 24.

Dino reiterated on Oct. 10 that the chairman shall also act as the administrator and chief executive officer of SBMA.  “A mere executive order shall not work to amend, repeal or supercede the law.”

Dino figured prominently as a presidential candidate of the PDP-Laban during the last elections until he was substituted at the last minute by then Davao Mayor and now President Duterte.