MRTH chief’s credibility questioned

MANILA, Philippines – Metro Rail Transit Holdings chairman Robert John Sobrepeña’s credibility was questioned yesterday after he blamed Liberal Party standard bearer Manuel   Roxas II for the issues hounding the train system’s contract.

Akbayan Rep. Ibarra Gutierrez, Koalisyon ng Daang Matuwid spokesman, said Sobrepeña’s statements are driven by his business interests.

“Sobrepeña has lost money-making ventures because of Mar,” he said in Filipino. “It’s but natural for him to be angry.”

Gutierrez said Sobrepeña has been involved in a long line of questionable transactions: the College Assurance Plan, which sought court rehabilitation due to financial problems, and the legal issues involving the Camp John Hay Development Corp., the developer of the former Camp John Hay in Baguio City.

“It will be up to you to decide if you will believe in him,” he said.

Sobrepeña said the events leading to the MRT contract mess happened during Roxas’ stint as Transportation secretary.

The contract with Sumitomo Corp., the original maintenance contractor, was not renewed, he added.

Negotiations with PH Trams, a company described in previous reports as inexperienced and undercapitalized, happened under Roxas’ watch, he said.

Sobrepeña said the contract with PH Trams was signed under Roxas’ successor, Transportation Secretary Joseph Abaya.