Talks on alleged Coke sale; Lassiter trade reset

MANILA, Philippines - PBA commissioner Chito Salud stressed yesterday he’ll not act on the proposed trade between Powerade and Petron Blaze involving prolific Tiger forward Marcio Lassiter until they obtain official word from the two teams regarding their reported agreement for a franchise sale.

The PBA board of governors wasn’t able to discuss that particular issue – San Miguel Corporation’s supposed purchase of the Coca-Cola Bottlers’ franchise – in the absence of a quorum in the emergency meeting called by chairman Mamerto Mondragon yesterday.

Absent were board members or representatives from Powerade (Coca-Cola), SMC teams Petron Blaze, Barangay Ginebra and B-Meg, and Barako Bull.

The board chair reset the meeting on Feb. 20 with the league commissioner making his own move, seeking clarification on the matter from no less than Cosmos Bottling Corp. and Coca-Cola Bottlers Phils. Inc. chairman and chief executive officer William Schultz.

Salud also wants to be clarified on whether JB Baylon remains Coca-Cola’s representative to the PBA board.

According to reports, Schultz himself made the sale agreement with SMC president Ramon Ang. Coca-Cola is reportedly selling its franchise for P100 million.

“I deem it, for the best interest of the league, to start verification of persistent reports in the media with regards the alleged sale of Coca-Cola franchise,” said Salud.

“This is for the spirit of transparency and for the spirit of full disclosure,” Salud added.

While waiting for words from Coca-Cola and Petron, Salud said the trade of the two parties will be put on hold.

Petron is after Lassiter, giving away Noy Baclao and Rey Guevarra in return.

“The trade is now at my office for my disposition and I’m taking this stand – I’m not inclined to take action on this trade until official word on the supposed franchise sale is obtained,” said Salud.

“It’s within the prerogative of the commissioner to approve, revise or reject outright a trade proposal. I will act in the appropriate time,” Salud added.

Salud didn’t take against anybody the board’s failure to muster a quorum in their emergency meeting.

“They (the absent members) sent excuses. They have their reasons,” he said.

“I ascribe to their good faith. Nobody has the monopoly of good faith and love for the league. I expect them to be here in the next meeting,” he added.