Lawmaker wants PASG abolished

MANILA, Philippines - A Bicol congressman is calling for the abolition of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG), citing “rampant corruption and blatant abuse of authority” allegedly committed by the agency.

In a privilege speech, Albay Rep. Al Francis Bichara said he is calling on President Arroyo to abolish PASG, which “has become a breeding ground for crooked and dishonest government officials and employees.”

He said various business groups are complaining about the alleged harassment and extortion activities of PASG personnel.

Bichara named some of these groups as the Professional Customs Brokers Association of the Philippines, Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners and Operators, Fruits Importers’ Association, and Visayas-Mindanao Customs Brokers Association.

He said there are also rampant complaints from Filipino-Chinese businessmen in Binondo, Manila about the illegal activities of PASG personnel.

He said brokers and truckers have vowed to cripple various ports in the country, particularly those in Manila, to dramatize their protest against PASG.

He said that in December 2007, he became a victim of PASG’s abuse of authority when the agency allegedly included four of his old vehicles for investigation and seizure “despite clear absence of evidence or even probable cause.”

Bichara, a former ambassador to Lebanon, said the vehicles included an old Jeep Cherokee that he had repaired and rebuilt so it would be in good running condition.

He also accused the anti-smuggling agency of violating its mandate by allowing non-government employees to perform functions reserved for state personnel.

He said he has a list of brokers and fixers authorized by PASG to conduct cargo examination when they should not be doing such a task.

– With Paolo Romero