Marketing, finance, top executives go in PBA’s top-to-bottom revamp

Unknown to many, a few days before San Miguel Corp. overhauled its management staff, the Philippine Basketball Association itself did a major shakeup in key positions in its front office in a move geared towards infusing fresh blood that could provide new insights for the league.

Three department heads, one referee and two other members of the Commissioner’s Office staff bid the PBA goodbye last Jan. 31.

Chief finance officer Ricky Palou, supervisor of officials Ernie de Leon, administrative officer Ernie Aquino and accounting clerk Mila Malapitan retired, marketing chief Robbie Puno resigned and referee Ogie Bernarte wasn’t given a new contract.

"It’s saddening to lose these people who were instrumental in my first year in the league but it’s really part of the general direction the PBA is taking. The league is inviting young blood into our team in order to get fresh insights," said league commissioner Noli Eala.

"Ang maganda lang we had good parting. These people are willing to be consulted specially about the past," Eala added.

Palou, a former player and banker, actually had long wanted to retire after former commissioner Jun Bernardino, his good friend from grade school days in Ateneo, yielded the rein to Eala. He was prevailed upon to stay a little longer to ease the burden on the new commissioner in his first year in the league.

Puno, meanwhile, was forced to resign as he deemed it necessary for him to help his mother-in-law, Boots Anson Roa, in her bid to win a Senate seat in the coming elections. Puno didn’t last a year in the PBA front office.

The question whether Puno can come back after the elections is up in the air, according to Eala.

De Leon cited health reasons in his retirement. His stint as supervisor of officials lasted only for a year.

Accounting supervisor Odessa Encarnacion was tapped as officer in charge (OIC) in the finance department, marketing official Diana Garcia OIC in marketing and media bureau chief Willie Marcial tapped to be the new administrative officer in concurrent capacity.

Eala said they’re now screening applicants for the vacant positions.

"But there’s no need to rush because everything is in place na naman. Okay na ang financial at marketing plans. For implementation na lang," said Eala.

The league commissioner also said "everyone in the office is in upbeat mood, ready to face the changes and the new challenge."