PBBM thumbs down Li Duan Wang’s naturalization, revised Baguio charter

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

Malacañang has yet to release a copy of Marcos’ veto messages on the two bills. (File Photo: Bongbong Marcos/Facebook)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has vetoed the proposed measures granting Filipino citizenship to Chinese entrepreneur Li Duan Wang and revising the Baguio City Charter, Malacañang announced on Friday.

“(The) legislative naturalization ni (of) Li Duan Wang and the bill on modern Baguio City Charter (have been) vetoed by the President,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a text message to Palace reporters.

Malacañang has yet to release a copy of Marcos’ veto messages on the two bills.

Wang’s proposed naturalization has been met with criticism because of his supposed links to Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) activities and questionable personal records.

Wang, also known as Mark Ong, is the alleged operator of the 9 Dynasty junket group, which has shared officers with Rivendell, a POGO hub in Pasay involved in illegal activities.

His supposed involvement in POGOs was not disclosed in his naturalization application, Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros earlier said.

The bill on the modern Baguio City Charter, on the other hand, aims to correct the flaws in the existing charter.

The measure is seen to downgrade Baguio City’s status as an independent and highly urbanized local government, and grant another agency power in the titling of properties.