Pagcor exec under fire over alleged involvement in ‘Baler’ production

MANILA, Philippines—A ranking official of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) is facing possible dismissal from office for his alleged involvement in the anomalous production of the movie “Baler” in 2008.

Pagcor Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications Maricar Bautista said an administrative case would be filed against Assistant Vice President Valente Custodio, who was head of the agency’s internal audit when it entered into an agreement with Viva Communications Inc. to co-produce the movie.

Custodio was among the 27 individuals charged Tuesday with malversation of funds and violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act at the Department of Justice.

“In the wake of the charges that were filed against the respondents including former internal audit head Valente Custodio, Pagcor will immediately proceed with the filing of administrative case,” Bautista said.

“He will be subjected to adjudication hearing and if found accountable and liable, it would lead to his eventual dismissal,” she added.

Aside from Custodio, another respondent in the case, Gamaliel Cordoba, is holding a government post.

Cordoba is currently the head of the National Telecommunications Commission.

Cordoba was member of the board when Pagcor agreed to co-produce the film with Viva.

Also charged were former Pagcor chairman Efraim Genuino and son, Erwin, and other former ranking officials of the agency involved in the transaction.