Reaction to Bobit Avila's column

My first reaction to Bobit Avila's column on August 23, 2006 was to ignore his allegations against me out of respect to his family. But a friend reminded me that the authority of the office, the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) that I represent has been assailed and that I have the obligation to defend it as it is my sworn duty.

In the course of my readings from newspaper reports on the controversy over a property occupied by Norkis in Looc, Mandaue City, I discovered that said property is a reclaimed property. Upon inquiry from head office I was told that the property is not registered with PRA, the only government agency authorized under existing laws over reclamation nationwide. Hence, a letter was sent to Mr. Norberto Quisumbing Jr. urging him to avail of the social registration for illegal reclamation before it expires on February 27, 2007. We made him aware that failure on his part to comply would result in the forfeiture of said properly without need of judicial action.

This act on my part should not be construed as being ungrateful to my former employer. It is in line with the performance of duty as member of the Board of Director of PRA, nothing personal.

If Bobit really considers me a friend then he could have called me so I can enlighten him and save him the embarrassment. If thoroughness and resourcefulness are measures of a real journalist I think Bobit failed miserably.

Despite the fact that during my stay with Norkis I was not as privileged as Bobit who traveled the world at the Quisumbings' expense, I value friendship. I will keep it even if the Quisumbings would refuse to attend any of my children's wedding. After falling out with the Quisumbings, his prejudice is understandable. (Sgd.) Elberto E. Emphasis