Buhain refutes graft raps

(First of two parts)

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Eric Buhain is in the center of a maelstrom. He’s been accused by some quarters in media of taking kickbacks from allegedly overpriced contracts, of heading a clique known as the "Magnificent 7" that supposedly controls the PSC’s affairs in complete disregard of the Board, of living a lavish lifestyle beyond his means, of displaying extravagance in foreign trips, and of undertaking expensive projects that do not benefit national athletes.

In a no-holds-barred interview that stretched to two hours the other day, Buhain explained why the charges of corruption were baseless. He’s not afraid to confront his accusers because his life is an open book, said the former national swimmer.

Here’s how Buhain replied.

Star: What is your reaction to insinuations that the PSC is a den of thieves?

Buhain: I can’t please everybody. It goes with the territory. Being in government, nobody is spared from criticism. Trabaho lang ito. I just do what has to be done. Baka may nagtatampo sa akin at gumawa na lang ng kwento. Our books are open to public scrutiny. We have nothing to hide.

Star: Several of your relatives and bodyguards went to the Busan Asian Games last year. Were their tickets, board and lodging paid for by the PSC and did they avail of travel tax exemptions?

Buhain: They paid for themselves and no one availed of a travel tax exemption.

Star: Did the PSC pay for the tickets of the three Adidas executives who were in Busan?

Buhain: No. The PSC contracted Adidas to supply jackets, warmup suits and other apparel for our athletes. Samsung donated P10 Million for this purpose and the money went directly to Adidas. To help our athletes, Adidas gives us a 25 percent discount for certain merchandise in selected stores.

Star: Is it true that Adidas gave you and the PSC Commissioners a set of golf clubs each?

Buhain: Yes. I see nothing wrong with that. It’s like paying us a talent fee for using Adidas merchandise. The cost of each set is probably P50,000.

Star: Is it true that the PSC pays double for security and maintenance at the Rizal Memorial than what was paid during former chairman Butch Tuason’s administration?

Buhain: No. It used to be P3 Million a month for security. Now it’s P2.3 Million. For maintenance, it used to be P2.5 Million. Now it’s P2 Million. The Rizal Memorial is different now from what it was before. It’s a place where athletes live. There is a lounge. We observe a curfew. We must be sure it is safe.

Star: Is it true that your father-in-law Secretary Ermita owns the security agency contracted by the PSC for the Rizal Memorial?

Buhain: No. That’s a rehash of a charge already dismissed. There are bidders for PSC contracts and none of my relatives is involved.

(To be continued)