Ang, SMC not investing in PAL

MANILA, Philippines - San Miguel Corp. president Ramon Ang said yesterday that neither SMC, nor he in his personal capacity, is investing in Philippine Airlines (PAL).

In an interview with reporters, Ang said he is a close friend of taipan Lucio Tan and that he is merely helping “in whatever way I can.” He added that his involvement in PAL is in his personal capacity and has nothing to do with SMC.

The SMC president, likewise, shot down any possible partnership with businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan who is also reportedly interested in PAL.

“I am not interested to get in partnership with anybody,” Ang said.

However, because of his interest in aviation and his long friendship with the Tan family, Ang said he talks frequently with Mr Tan.

“Madalas kami mag usap dun. (We talk often about it (PAL). So whatever way I can do to help him, I’m gonna do it,” Ang said, adding that their talks are in the nature of “brainstorming.”

The SMC president stressed that “Lucio Tan is a tycoon — super rich. He does not really need anybody’s money, but he needs more idea and help to come up with better solutions, better ways of running the company.”

Furthermore, Ang said “Lucio is awash with cash.”

Actually, Ang said PAL is in talks with foreign airlines and this is where he can possibly help foreign airlines.

“If I can help facilitate why not? If there’s an opportunity to help him, I’m willing to,” Ang concluded.