Barbers’ son to replace PTA chief

Philippine Tourism Authority General Manager Nixon Kua protested yesterday an order from Malacañang relieving him from the post, saying he would leave the PTA only after his term of office expired in 2006.

Though there has been no official statement on the matter from Malacañang, Kua has reportedly been replaced by former Makati City Councilor Robert Dean Barbers. The PTA is the project implementation arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Barbers is the youngest son of Sen. Robert Barbers and a brother of Surigao del Norte Gov. Lyndon Barbers and Surigao del Norte Rep. Ace Barbers.

"On the night of Nov. 21, I received advice that the Office of the Executive Secretary had transmitted to the DOT the appointment of Mr. Robert Dean Barbers as general manager of PTA," Kua said at a press conference yesterday at the DOT building in Manila.

As early as Oct. 29, Kua had gotten wind of his impending removal from office, prompting him to send a memorandum to the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) clarifying the issue on the PTA chief’s security of tenure.

"I was issued a valid appointment in November 2000 for a fixed term of office to shield the position from political purposes," he said.

"There can be no valid appointment for a position that is not vacant. I have not resigned nor have I abandoned office. Neither have I been charged with any offenses to justify my removal," he added.

He was appointed to the PTA by then President Joseph Estrada. Kua said he is consulting with his lawyer to seek court intervention on the matter.

The DOT Employees association (DOTEA) and the PTA Employees Association (PTEA) came to Kua’s defense and promised to hold mass action from 12 noon to 1 p.m. daily until Malacañang recalls the order and allows Kua to remain in his post.

"My family and I would have chosen the much less difficult path of quietly accepting the appointment of Mr. Barbers, but such (action) would set a dangerous precedent," Kua said. "If it could happen to me... it could also happen to the rank and file employees and career officials of PTA."

"The position (of PTA general manager) likewise becomes suspect as an instrument for the furtherance of political ambitions," Kua said, adding that he has no plans of running for any elective post.

Kua said he could not think of any other reason for his removal from office except his "friendship with people identified with the former President (Estrada)."

Kua said his friendship with people in politics and other media practitioners has never affected his performance and effectiveness as PTA chief. "PTA has been consistent in supporting the programs of President Arroyo in promoting tourism," he said.