Genuino seeks release of retirement pay

Manila, Philippines - Former Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) chairman Ephraim Genuino is seeking the release of his retirement pay even after the gaming firm had accused him and his son of misusing millions of its funds.

Genuino sent a letter to Pagcor chief Christino Naguiat for the immediate release of his retirement benefits for his 10 years of service in the gaming agency.

Genuino said he had already complied with the requirements, including a clearance from the Office of the Ombudsman, to allow him to collect his retirement benefits.

“In case it has slipped your attention, I write to remind you of the retirement pay and other remaining benefits due me since I retired on June 30, 2010. It is worthy to note that I have submitted all the requirements, including the ombudsman clearance, necessary to claim these benefits,” Genuino said in his letter to Naguiat last June 8.

Genuino lamented that he had been waiting for the release of his retirement benefits, which according to sources, would run into millions of pesos.

“I have been patiently waiting for your action on this matter since July of 2010 and I have, in fact, been more than understanding,” Genuino said.

“I would sincerely appreciate it if you could expedite action on this matter so I can finally receive the benefits due me and we can finally put this behind us.”

But it appears Genuino will have to be more patient as Naguiat is not ready to accede to his request.

Pagcor filed graft and malversation charges against Genuino, his son Erwin and several others for misusing P26.7 million of its funds.

Genuino was accused of unauthorized release of funds to produce the movie “Baler” in a joint production of BIDA Productions and VIVA Communications Inc.

Senior Pagcor sources, however, told News5 that since there is a pending case against Genuino, they cannot authorize the release of his retirement pay.

Genuino pointed out sending his letter of demand before the charges were filed on June 14, stressing that he is wondering why there was a delay in the release of his retirement benefits since he complied with all the requirements.